How much will it cost to buy a Trailing Offset Disc Plough and where does the cost come from?

Nov 11, 2023    Posted by Ian Pritchard

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How much will it cost to buy a Trailing Offset Disc Plough? - And what drives the cost up or down?

One of the first questions we get from customers looking to upgrade or purchase a new set of Offsets is "How much does an Offset Disc Cost?". With so many sizes and options available this can make answering the question a little difficult. However, in this article, we will do our best to explain what drives the cost of Offset Discs up or down, and what makes one manufacturer or retailer more expensive than another.

Contents

Size

Working Width

The width of an offset disc can play an important role in determining the cost, for example, a rigid 20 plate unit will have a much lower price point than a folding 44 plate unit.

It is important to understand that whilst a wider unit will have a bigger upfront cost, if you are working large areas of ground or contracting this cost will most likely be cancelled out by the added efficiency a larger offset will offer. Conversely, if you are on a smaller property you will need to do the figures to see if it is better to go with a larger machine and gain efficiencies in time or if your property is better suited to a smaller machine.

One thing to compare when analysing different width machines is the features. Occasionally larger width discs will have features that are not available in a smaller rigid machine.

Bigger is not always better, you must take into consideration things like “What size can I pull with my tractor?” or “How wide a machine can I move around on my lanes and through my gateways?”

Another consideration is how much weight you need per plate or even the size of the plate. Obviously the bigger the plate the bigger the axles, bearings and frames so the cost is going to go up proportionally.

Folding or rigid

When considering transport width there is also the option of moving from a rigid machine to a folding machine. There are several different ways to fold a machine so it can be transported along roads and all manufacturers offer different solutions. But at the end of the day, folding or swinging a disc plough takes some serious engineering to make it safe and strong. You cannot do this without the extra expense.

Bearing Type

The bearings in an offset disc plough are crucial to its functionality and longevity. Different bearing types have varying upfront costs and maintenance needs; it's crucial to balance these factors for long-term benefits.

For example, ploughs equipped with sealed ball bearings are often cheaper upfront, but they offer far less durability and require more frequent maintenance compared to a machine with say, roller bearings running in an oil bath. Even all oil bath bearings are not built to the same quality or standard. The quality and style of the seals will have a massive impact on the life of the bearing but will often cost more to produce. The investment in high-quality bearings can result in reduced downtime and maintenance costs in the long-term paying for themselves many times over.

And lastly “Availability”. While it may be fine to have the most flash machine in the country that can do everything but talk, it proves nothing if you are unable to use it because you are waiting for replacement parts to be sent from the other side of the world. It is important to ask before you buy “Do you carry the spare parts that I am likely to require?”.

Disc Plates

One thing that is often overlooked when buying a Disc Plough is the quality of the disc plates. This is a very important consideration because after all is said and done, they must be of a high enough quality to not only do all the work but also take the full weight of the machine when an obstacle is struck when in use.

Size is also another major contributor to cost. Not only because bigger plates cost more, but also because bigger plates need a bigger heavier frame to support them as they will be putting far greater loads through the machine.

Build Quality

Gang Axles

We refer to the shaft or bolt that goes through the disc plates and bearings as a “Gang Axle”. These can often be relatively small at around 25mm in a light machine or somewhat bigger at around 55mm in heavier machines. Not all axles are created equal either, with axle quality varying among manufacturers based on factors like cheaper and lower grade steel. It is important to recognise that, the quality of the axles will impact the overall durability and service life of the machine.

Frame Strength

The strength and quality of the frame directly impacts the ability of the machine to withstand the rigours of fieldwork. A robust frame, constructed from high-grade materials, contributes to longevity and reliability. Whilst ploughs with stronger frames may come at a higher cost, they offer greater durability and stability, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging conditions.

Wheels and rims

The choice of wheels and rims significantly influences how the plough operates in the field. Heavy-duty flotation wheels/tyres contribute to better flotation, especially in uneven or soft terrain. Whilst these wheels/tyres may increase the initial cost of the plough, they are essential for smooth operation and reduced wear and tear.

Lighter rims especially can be attractive to buy, but the fuzzy feeling you get by saving a few dollars will be long forgotten when you are stuck on the side of the road with a split or dented rim.

👉 Trelleborg has a good article on the technical Information about rims and wheels. Download your copy here.

Hubs and Stubs

The quality of hubs and stubs used in the plough's construction directly influences its durability. Higher-quality materials and construction methods used in these components contribute to a longer lifespan and reduced chances of breakdowns. Ploughs with superior hubs and stubs might have a higher upfront cost but offer increased reliability in the long term.

Hydraulics

Modern Offset Disc ploughs are typically fitted with some sort of hydraulic system which will directly affect operational efficiency. These systems allow for quick and easy adjustments, such as depth control, folding or even pitching of the unit.

When considering a hydraulic system it's important to look at the quality of the rams. It is easy to forget when sitting in the tractor and pulling a lever to make the machine raise, lower or fold, that a ram cylinder on the disc is doing all this heavy lifting. These cylinders not only take huge weights and pressures but, they are also sitting outside in the weather for the greater part of the year, so must be of high quality to withstand rust and damage.

When comparing rams another cost difference could be the fact some cylinders are fitted with a simple clevis and pin, whilst others have a greaseable bush. The cylinders with a greaseable bush will last far longer but also cost more to produce.

Gang Adjustment

While most offset disc ploughs have some form of gang adjustment some simply don’t. A plough with no gang adjustment is almost guaranteed to cost you less to buy, it is also equally guaranteed to cause you pain in the paddock when you can’t stop your machine ridging, furrowing, or tracking off due to varying soil conditions or farming practices. While ploughs with gang adjustment capabilities may be more expensive, they offer adaptability and precision in tilling practices.

Scrapers

The effectiveness of the scraper system in an offset disc plough is vital for maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of the discs during operation. Ploughs equipped with high-quality and better designed scraper systems are more efficient in preventing soil buildup on the discs and or removing rocks, contributing to smoother tillage. While ploughs with better scrapers may have a higher upfront cost, they reduce the need for frequent maintenance and ensure consistent performance.

Quality of the Finish

The overall quality of the plough's construction, including the finish, impacts its resistance to corrosion and wear. Higher-quality finishes, such as superior paint coating or powder coating, contribute to the plough's longevity. Ploughs with a superior finish might have a higher initial cost but are less prone to deterioration, ensuring extended usability and resale value.

Manufacturing Location

Imported offset disc ploughs, often manufactured in developing countries with lower labour costs, might initially seem more affordable. However, these units often compromise on quality to maintain lower prices, leading to potential issues with durability and performance. It's crucial to balance cost considerations with the long-term reliability and effectiveness of the equipment.

Optional Extras

Manufacturers may offer optional extras that can significantly enhance the functionality of the disc plough. These extras may include depth control systems, furrow filling attachments or flags, lights and signs for transport on the road. Whilst these features raise the initial cost, they can improve efficiency and versatility, potentially leading to increased yields.

Why some Offset Disc Manufacturers/Retailers are more expensive, and some are less expensive

Support / Backup Service

The choice between a less expensive or more expensive Offset Disc provider depends on the level of support and expertise offered. Companies that prioritise backup services and local industry knowledge might have higher upfront costs, but this approach can prevent later expenses from breakdowns, premature wear, and operator uncertainties. It's essential to consider potential costs arising from these factors.

On the other hand, Offset Disc manufacturers and retailers providing comprehensive customer support and prompt after-sales service tend to be more expensive. Their added value includes in-field setup advice, adjustments, and maintenance assistance, contributing to peace of mind for customers.

After Sales Service and Setup

After sales service is a crucial consideration affecting the price of your Offset. Companies that are readily available to assist with queries, equipment setup and in-field adjustments, and have a pulse on customer needs may be more expensive compared to foreign or offshore companies with little or no backup service. For an environment with low machine usage, a lack of after-sales service may not be a significant concern. However, for extensive machine use, aftersales service and operating advice become critical.

R&D

Lower priced Offsets often come from companies that may not have invested heavily in Research and Development. Companies with extensive experience and Research and Development investments can command a higher price due to product modification and adjustment to local conditions and customer feedback. These products are refined over time to ensure they are suited for their intended purpose.

Other factors

Additional factors influencing cost include spare parts inventory, assembly requirements, and transportation. A well-stocked parts inventory ensures faster resolutions for customers. Fully assembled equipment may save time and effort, while flat-packed options can reduce transportation costs, with customers trading convenience for assembly time and labour.

Offset Disc Cost Examples (2023 Prices)

Now that we have explored the factors influencing the cost of offset disc ploughs, let's delve into specific examples of prices in 2023.

For a small lighter duty or finishing machine, suitable for tractors with 45 to 90hp and 20 to 28 plate size with ball or greased bearings you could expect to spend from around $12,000 to say $20,000. Once we go to the same class of machine with Oil Bath bearings the price would normally start at around $20,000 and go to $25,000.

The next weight of machine we would consider would be slightly heavier, with 20 to 36 plates and would suit tractors in the 80 to 180hp range. Once again starting with ball or greased bearing machines, the prices would start at roughly $20,000 and go through to around $60,000. With the Oil Bath bearings moving these numbers to around $30,000 as a starting point through to around $65,000.

If you had a tractor that had 160 to around 300hp and wished to do general tillage and primary cultivation, then you would most likely look at a folding machine. This is so you can utilise your full power in the paddock, but still achieve a narrow transport width for safe transport along roads and lanes. A tractor of this size would most likely be suited to 40 and 60 plates for these machines Oil Bath bearings would be more common than other styles and pricing would start at around $85,000 for a standard weight machine and go up to around $190,000 for something with more weight.

One other class we haven’t considered yet is the heavy series, normally with 32” (815mm) or bigger plates. While these may often be narrower, they have a high weight per disc ratio. Normally speaking the rigid (Non folding) models would start at around $100,000 and folding units around $160,000.

You may also need to consider the price of some options to customise the machine to suit your requirements. Common options would be items such as a furrow filler or oversized sign which are likely to cost roughly $300 to $400 each or some rear tail lights which could be around $700.

Investing for Long Term Gain

When contemplating the cost of an offset disc plough, each aspect contributes to its overall value and performance. While upfront costs may vary based on these factors, investing in a high-quality plough can yield long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, reduced maintenance, and increased productivity over the life of the machine.

Choosing the right offset disc plough involves considerable research. It is important to consider your individual requirements to ensure you acquire a reliable and effective tool for optimal agricultural operations.

Next Steps

Components, manufacturing location, customer support, and product features all contribute to the final price of an Offset Disc. We hope you enjoyed reading this blog as much as we enjoyed writing it and it has given you some insight into why an Offset Disc costs what it does and what you can expect a new Offset Disc to cost in 2023.

Head to our learning centre to delve deeper into Offset Discs, or if you're ready to connect with a Sales Rep, call us at 1800 335 623 or browse the range and submit a web inquiry.

The team at Delmade are very happy to answer questions you may have, don't hesitate to reach out on 1800 335 623.

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