There are both potential benefits and some limitations to having a front-mounted boom in comparison to a rear-mounted boom.

Most spray operators are familiar with the operation and limitations of a rear-mounted boom, so the following discussion focuses on the potential benefits and limitations of a front-mounted boom, relative to the standard rear-mounted boom.

Potential benefits of a front-mounted boom

Front-mounted booms make it easier for the operator to see all of the nozzles and boom components while they are spraying and they are generally easier to drive into corners (as opposed to reversing a rear-mounted boom).

A front-mounted boom can also be useful for reducing some of the issues associated with poor control in wheel tracks due to air being displaced by the tyres, provided they are not operated at higher spraying speeds (generally above 22 kilometres per hour).

At lower spraying speeds, front-mounted booms may also reduce the amount of spray entering the ‘wake’ behind the sprayer, which can result in lower drift potential when compared to rear-mounted booms.

Some machines with front-mounted booms enable the interchange of implements, such as windrowers or inter-row cultivators, which may be of benefit to some operations.

Possible limitations of a front-mounted boom

One of the biggest concerns for operators with front-mounted booms is the possibility of spray chemicals contaminating areas the operator has contact with, particularly when getting in and out of the sprayer and in areas under the chassis when they conduct maintenance.

Generally this is less of a problem when operating with a coarse spray quality or larger, but can occur when smaller droplet sizes are used for fungicide or insecticide applications, and at higher spraying speeds.

A front-mounted boom can cause the boom wings to be very reactive when making steering changes. Negotiating obstacles may require adjustments to driving technique if the operator is more familiar with operating a rear-mounted boom.

On balance, the decision to purchase either system is likely to come down to other features available on the sprayer and the service provided by the dealer.