The Case IH crop production team offers these basic planter preseason maintenance tips!
For reliability, check:
- Tractor/planter hookup: Make sure your planter tractor has ample horsepower and hydraulic capacity to capably handle your fully loaded planter. All hitch and hydraulic connections should meet or exceed the requirements set forth in the planter’s Operators Manual.
- All hardware for overall integrity: Inspect the entire implement to make sure all bolts and fasteners are tight. Check frame members and welds for cracks or signs of fatigue.
- Operation of electronic control systems: Make sure wiring and connectors are in good condition and properly routed.
- Tires: Because they may play a key role in implement depth control, planter tires should all be the same size and inflated to the same pressure.
- Row markers: Run through their cycles to check for proper operation. Be sure marker disks and disk bearings are sound.
- Safety equipment: Be sure all lights, reflective markers and SMVs are clean and functional.
For Performance, check:
- Planter leveling. Planter row units should be set for level front-to-back operation.
- Soil opening, firming, closing and packing systems. All components should be in good condition and equally matched in terms of wear.
- Row-unit depth control. Make sure all depth control components function properly.
- Seed metering and delivery systems. Inspect all components that play a role in selecting, delivering, placing and monitoring seed.
- Planter drive systems. Inspect all chains and sprockets for alignment, tension and sprocket wear.
Consider replacing:
- Ground engaging tools that are worn beyond limits recommended in the Operators Manual.
- Gaskets and seals required to maintain air or vacuum pressures.
- Any seed singulation or seed delivery components that are worn beyond recommended limits.
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