16
8. Manipulate Seed Plates/Electric Motor
If the weight of seed is within 10% of the target,
the speed of the electric motor can be modified to
finetune the rate. Otherwise, the seed plates can
be repositioned to dial the seed rate in closer to
the target using the same method outlined in step
3. If the rate needs to increase, the setting will be
increase; and likewise, the setting will decrease if
the rate needs to be cut down.
9. Repeat Steps as Necessary
Until the target weight is achieved, steps 5
through 8 should be repeated. In some instances,
the seed plates may need to be changed during
this process.
10. Check for consistent seed metering
Particularly with large seed being metered with
small Seed Plates, it is recommended to check for
consistent seed metering to produce a good stand.
To do so, simply make a short pass with the
Multi-drill slightly lifted in the air so the seed can
fall on the ground at the desired ground speed. If
the seed appears to be dropping at even
increments, the seeder is ready; however, if the
seed placement is not consistent, a larger setting
may need to be considered.
Changing Seed Plates
The seed plates are strategically positioned
between the hopper’s outlet holes (seen when
the hopper is empty) and the “cutoff plate”
which the linear actuator shuttles back and
forth to start and stop seed flow.
Each set of plates are labeled with laser
etching on one side: “left”, “right”, and their
respective sizes (Figure 16).
In order to change the seed plates, the
hopper must be clean.
If the plates are
removed with seed in the hopper, the seed can
wedge between the “cutoff plate” and the
hopper outlets making it impossible to slide
the next set of plates into place. Water can be
used to clean; however, the hopper must be
completely dry before any calibration or
operation can continue. If water is used,
compressed air is recommended for
thoroughly drying before continuing.
The seed plates are changed using the
following steps:
1.
Clean hopper and remove any loose
impediments or debris that may
interfere with Seed Plates being
removed from seeder.
2.
To change plates you will need two
9/16” wrenchs and the Adjuster
Wrench, DS27-026. Using the small
end of the Adjuster Wrench, located
on top of chain cover as shown in
Figure 13. Loosen and remove the
two ½” carriage head bolts
connecting the adjuster handle to the
Adjuster mount as shown Figure 15.
3.
Pull straight out on the adjuster
handle and slide the seed plate
assembly out of the seed box as
shown in Figure 16.
4.
Using the 9/16” wrenches, loosen and
remove the 3/8” bolts connecting both
seed plates to the adjuster linkages as
shown in Figure 16.
Figure 15. Seed Plates –
Step 1
