Setting up and adjusting coulters??

[Barneyhunts]

I have a Howse 2 bottom 12" plow. I recently ordered coulters for it and would like to know how folks set them up. If I plow 6" deep, for example, how deep should the coulter run? How close should it be set to the plow? Does the set up vary with different soil conditions ?
Thanks,
Barney

 

[Farmwithjunk]

I'll try to hit the high points. Coulters can be used to deal with specific conditions such as corn stalks and surface crop residue or plowing in sod as examples. The adjustments vary slightly with each, and they can vary with different brands of plows. But....In general, here's how/where to start with basic set-up.

The axle/hub needs to be close to directly over the leading edge of the share's point. In MOST conditions, the coulter should be cutting approx. 2" to 3" deep. (Old school practice was to set them ALMOST as deep as you're plowing, especially so in sod. That tends to cause weeds/grass/crop residue to catch on coulter bracket, causing a "plug") The coulter should run 3/8" to 5/8" to the left (land side) of the leading edge of the shin. If the plow happens to be equipped with cover boards (trash boards) the coulters would be set 3/4" to 1" to the left.

 

[Barneyhunts]

Thanks Farmwithjunk! You're a good resource to folks like me who are trying to learn how to use this equipment.
Barney