How Often Do Base Plates and Tabs Need to Be Replaced?

Base plates

Base plates are wear parts, but depending on the ground, movement pattern, and wear, they can be used over several shoeing periods – in practice often 2–3 regular shoeing intervals.

Check the base plate carefully after removal: if the profile and stability are still sufficient and there are no deep cracks or deformations, it can be prepared for the next shoeing.

Here's how to prepare the base plate for reuse:

1. Remove the old tabs – cut the tabs off with scissors.
2. Remove the weld seams – grind off the weld residue with a grinding tool until the plate is bare and clean again.
3. Fit the base plate – just like with a new base plate. More information: “How do I correctly fit the Goodsmith base plate?”
4. Weld on new tabs – as usual. Instructions: “At what temperature do I weld the Goodsmith tabs onto the base plate?”

Tabs
Tabs are renewed at every new shoeing interval – without exception. Reuse is not intended: material fatigue and glue residue affect the durability of the bond. For a reliable and secure glued bond on the hoof, we recommend using only new tabs.