The planters are rolling out and now is a good time to check and make sure everything is in working order before you get it to the field. Here is a quick checklist to run through on your planter. Let us know if you have any questions, we have a couple precision ag guys here in Tifton that can help us troubleshoot problems if need be.
- Parallel Linkages – Stand behind the row-unit, wiggle it up and down and left and right to check for any play in the parallel arms, and adjust or replace linkages and bushings to ensure that row units are secured nicely and tight on the planter.
- Drive System – Check all chains, idlers, sprockets, and bushings, and replace any parts that are too worn. Ensure all drive chains are snug and do not have any unnecessary jump or vibration when operating. Lubricate all chains and sprockets before beginning planting and regularly in the season. Additionally, check all drive system parts, including flex drives, hydraulic drives and lines, and electrical drive systems, including connectors and wires.
- Tire Pressure – Check and maintain proper air pressure in the tires as recommended by the manufacturer based on the weight of the planter and planting conditions in the field. Independent of the drive system, improper tire pressure can negatively affect seed placement due to improper leveling of the planter toolbar.
- Double Disc Openers – Check that the double-disc openers are still sharp and within the diameter, tolerance outlined by the manufacturer. Replace if they are dull or worn more than half an inch of their original diameter. Perform a quick check using a business card to ensure adequate contact (1.75 to 2 inches) between the disc openers at the 4 o’clock position.
- Gauge Wheels – Inspect the gauge wheels for any cracks or wear. Adjust the gauge wheels so that they run tight against the disc openers but just enough so they can easily be turned by hand with slight pressure. Gauge wheels should also move freely up and down without sticking in any position.
- Row Cleaners – Check row-cleaners for any wear and replace any bearings if they are not turning freely. Floating type row cleaners should also travel up and down to effectively clear soil/crop residue out of the way.
- Seed Meters – Thoroughly inspect each seed meter for any worn or damaged parts, including vacuum seals, brushes, scrapers, and doubles eliminator. Ensure that the correct crop kit (for newer meters) is installed in the meter. If not utilizing a seed monitor (capable of by-row feedback) during planting, it is also recommended to run the seed meters on a test stand to check performance and make any necessary adjustments.
- Seed Tube – Check seed tubes for any cracks and wear at the bottom. Seed tubes should also be cleaned properly to clear any debris or obstructions (seed, cobweb, etc.). Ensure that the seed sensor is secured properly to the tube and working as intended.
- Closing Wheels – Check that closing wheels are centered directly over the center of the row. Inspect closing wheels for any wear or play in the arms and replace parts or adjust as needed.
- Vacuum – Inspect the whole vacuum system, including hydraulic motor, fan, and hoses, for any wear, leaks, or loose fittings. Check that vacuum hoses are attached properly to the manifold and the seed meters on each row-unit.
- Downforce – For mechanical (spring type) systems, check all the components thoroughly and make sure different downforce adjustments can be made quickly. For pneumatic or hydraulic systems, inspect all air or hydraulic connections carefully and perform a static diagnostic test to verify that the downforce system is functioning correctly. This includes the compressor for air systems; in some cases, it stays in the cab and can be neglected.
- Technology – Check that the GPS receiver and planter display have the most recent firmware upgrades installed and are functioning correctly. Check if the GPS correction subscription services and any other display unlocks for advanced planting features are activated and paid for the rest of the season. To ensure everything is connected and functioning correctly, perform a thorough inspection of all technology components, including sensors, harnesses, ECU, and connections. Also, make sure to back up planting data from the previous season on a computer or an external storage device before recording this year’s data.
