Question

During ploughing with a tractor mounted mould board plough, the mast of three point hitch system would be

• A. inclined \(5^\circ\) to \(20^\circ\) with horizontal
• B. nearly vertical
• C. parallel to the direction of travel of the tractor
• D. parallel to the rear axle of the tractor

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To understand the correct position of the mast in a three-point hitch system during ploughing with a tractor mounted mould board plough, let's explore the setup and its functional dynamics.

The three-point hitch system is a standardized method of attaching implements to tractors, which allows for effective transfer of mechanical power from the tractor to the implement. This system involves three link points, which are comprised of two lower lift arms and an upper link. The purpose of this setup is to ensure stability and ease of control over the mounted equipment.

During ploughing, especially with a mould board plough, it is essential that the equipment remains stable. For optimal performance and to prevent undue lateral or transverse movement, the mast, which is the vertical component connecting the top link point to the plough, should be positioned appropriately.

Let’s examine the options:

1. Inclined \(5^\circ\) to \(20^\circ\) with horizontal: This inclination might cause instability as the centre of gravity could shift away from the optimal ploughing line.
2. Nearly vertical: This position helps in maintaining stability, ensuring an even penetration and ploughing depth, and allows easy maneuvering around the field.
3. Parallel to the direction of travel of the tractor: While this can seem logical, during actual ploughing the implement needs some angle for effective cutting and soil turnover, which this setup doesn't ensure.
4. Parallel to the rear axle of the tractor: This rarely constitutes a balanced or stable setup and doesn’t provide the correct alignment for ploughing.

Given these considerations, the most appropriate position for the mast of the three-point hitch system during ploughing to ensure optimal operational conditions would be nearly vertical. This setup helps maintain the structural integrity of the setup and allows for uniform ploughing.

Thus, the correct answer is: nearly vertical.