How many shanks are recommended when ripping hard material?

When ripping hard material, using one shank, specifically the middle one, is recommended for several reasons related to efficiency and equipment wear. A single middle shank is designed to provide effective penetration into hard soil or rock without placing excessive strain on the equipment. This setup allows for better control of the ripping process, increasing the likelihood of breaking up hard materials without causing undue stress on the tractor.

Additionally, using one shank minimizes the potential for equipment damage that can occur from trying to use multiple shanks on tough materials, which may lead to equipment overload or failure. This approach also helps maintain an optimal ripping angle and allows for more precise control over material displacement and depth of penetration.

In contrast, employing multiple shanks or the outer shanks could lead to inefficiencies in the ripping process, as they may not penetrate as effectively in hard soil, making it harder to achieve the desired outcomes without risking equipment integrity. Thus, selecting the middle shank is a strategic choice aimed at balancing performance with equipment safety when dealing with challenging materials.