Enter the current weight of the tractor and the total horsepower into the calculator to determine the ballast weight.

Ballast Weight Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the correct amount of ballast weight for a tractor. 

BW = 110*HP - TW
  • Where BW is the ballast weight (lbs)
  • HP is the horsepower of the tractor engine (hp)
  • TW is the current tarctor weight (lbs)

To calculate the ballast weight, multiply the horsepower by 110, then subtract the current weight of the tractor without ballast.

What is a ballast weight?

Definition:

A ballast weight is something, typically a piece of metal or another solid block of material, that adds weight to a vehicle in order to alter the handling or performance of the vehicle.

In the case of a tractor, it’s normally used to help provide better traction when moving.

How to calculate ballast weight?

Example Problem:

The following example outlines how to calculate a ballast weight for a tractor.

First, determine the total horsepower of the tractor. In this example, the tractor has a 300 horsepower engine.

Next, determine the current weight of the vehicle. This vehicle weighs 25,000 lbs.

Finally, calculate the ballast weight using the formula above:

BW = 110*HP – TW

BW = 110*300 – 25000

BW = 800lbs