23 MAN-GD-2300-002
Field Operation Guide
Addition of Extra Weight
The success of No-Till drilling is often dependent on the proper machine set up in the field. In many cases, the
weight of the drill is critical to the proper operation of the drill and since the weight of the drill is the ground
penetrating force, the proper distribution of this weight is absolutely essential. The weight must be distributed
to three main areas: coulters, openers and press wheels. If too much of the weight is placed on the coulters, it
is possible that there won’t be sufficient weight left to create proper opener penetration and press wheel
pressure. If the desired frame height cannot be maintained, additional weight is probably necessary. Up to
100 lbs. additional weight may be added per opener. There may be some situations where the ground/trash
conditions are so tough that the weight of the machine is not adequate to obtain proper penetration even when
the allowable added weight is added to the machine.
Ground Preparation
The effective use of a No-Till drill is dependent upon proper field preparation. Consideration should be made
long before the ground is to be planted about insuring a properly prepared field that will be suitable for No-Till
drilling. In the case of wheat or rice ground, tire ruts and poor straw distribution should be avoided. For best
results, the straw should be chopped and spread evenly as the straw is harvested. Trash problems can be
avoided by cutting the crop higher off the ground and herbicide application is not blocked by lying straw. The
ground should be relatively smooth in contour and free of large clods or ruts. A Remlinger drill will perform
best on relatively smooth ground. With smooth ground, the spring pressures will be consistent across the
width of the machine.
Check to be sure the press wheels remain in contact with the ground and with the T-Handle. It should make
the soil over the seed firm, but not too firm. Over packing the seed bed can result in poor stands as the plant
may have trouble pushing out of the packed soil. If the press wheel doesn’t remain in contact with ground and
T-Handle, more down pressure is required.
Whenever possible, plant in soils with plenty of moisture (not muddy). Soils with higher moisture contents
have considerably less shear strengths than the same soils at lower moisture content. Therefore, many
penetration problems can be avoided by simply planting at the proper moisture content. Experience will teach
each operator the proper moisture content for his particular soil.
Ground Speed
The recommended ground speed for drilling is 4 mph. In smooth, well prepared soils, speeds in excess of 8
mph have been successful. The main concern is to give the springs an opportunity to successfully maintain
contact between the ground, coulters, openers, and press wheels. Excessive bouncing causes inconsistent
seed rates and seed depth and unnecessary wear to the machine. Ground speeds can be tailored to each
individual situation. Rough terrain, ground hardness and trash are the main consideration in adjusting ground
speeds.
To check opener depth, the press wheel should be resting firmly on the ground. The opening made by the
opener should be closed by the press wheels. To check the down pressure, walk behind the drill while it is in
motion. The press wheels should stay firmly on the ground. If the press wheels are bouncing off the ground,
more down pressure is needed or the drill needs additional weight.
To Next Page
Loading...