Implement Working Depth
The vertical distance by which the tip of the soil-engaging element is buried relative to the untilled soil surface. The measurement reference matters: depth measured from the wheel track comes out greater than the real value. The depth directly determines the draft force, the fuel consumption and the work quality.
Three adjustments that determine depth work together: top link length (implement angle), lift rod length (lateral balance) and the position of the control lever. When one of these changes, the others need to be reviewed again.
- Take the measurement from the untilled surface; measuring from the wheel track misleads by a few centimetres.
- Working deeper than necessary rapidly increases draft force and fuel, and does not improve work quality.
- If the soil hardness varies within the same field, a single depth setting will not hold everywhere.
The choice of control mode also comes in here: if you want constant depth, position control is suitable; if you want constant draft load, draft control is. The electronic retrofit kit does not measure depth; it reduces operator-induced deviation by ensuring the command is applied in the same way on every pass. The depth itself is set up by mechanical adjustments.
Context in which this term is used: Converting a tractor hydraulic lever to electronic control