GREAT PLAINS PL5200, Operator'S Manual

Page: 33 / 110

PL5200 Planter Table of Contents Index Operation
Great Plains | 411-825M | 12/07/2020 26
Operation
This section covers general operating procedures
and adjustments necessary for the best field
performance and results. Experience, machine
familiarity, and the following information will lead to
efficient operation and good working habits. Always
operate farm machinery with safety in mind.
Even if planting conditions rarely change, some
items need periodic adjustment due to normal wear.

Pre-Start Checklist
Complete the following checklist prior to operation.

Read and understand “ Safety Information ”
beginning on page 2.

Check that all working parts are moving freely,
bolts are tight, and cotter pins are spread apart.

Check that all grease fittings are in place and
lubricated. “
Lubrication
” beginning on page 68.

Check that all safety decals and reflectors are
correctly placed and legible. If damaged, replace
with new, legible decal or reflector. See “
Safety
Decals
” beginning on page 6.

Inflate tires to pressure recommended and
tighten wheel bolts as specified. See “
Tire
Chart ” and “ Torque Value Chart ” on page 82.

Check the planter for worn or damaged parts.
Repair or replace parts before going to the field.

If returning the planter to use from storage,
remove any grease used to protect the cylinder
rods.

Field Operation
Electrocution Hazard
Keep clear of overhead power lines when
unfolding, folding, operating, or transporting the
planter. The machine is not grounded. At higher
voltages, electrocution can occur without direct
contact. Any line voltage present on planter or
tractor can cause severe injury or death.
Before Planting Checklist

Check electrical and hydraulic connections.

Make sure planter is leveled (page 18).

Set up the seed meters for correct seed
(page 42).

Set planting rate. See the Material Rate manual.

Check the console and observe any diagnostic
messages.

Check chain tension (page 68).

Make sure meter inlet gates are open to chart
value. See Material Rate manual.

Make sure hoses are fully connected to meters.

Close and latch all tank/hopper lids.

Set planting depth handles the same (page 47).

Set down pressure springs the same except in
tracks (page 47).

Check coulter alignment to the row (page 50).

Set press wheels the same except in tracks
(page 49).

Check fan operation (page 30).
Begin Planting

Remove wing lock pins, and install pins in the
wing flex lock pin position (page 27).

Unfold and line up the planter at the start of the
first row.

Prime the meters with seed. Leave the fan
running.

Pull forward, lower the planter, and begin planting
for a short distance.

Stop and check the planting depth, seed spacing,
and press wheel operation.

Make the necessary adjustments and resume
planting.

For turns:
Raise the wings, ensure row units are not in
contact with the ground, and make the turn.
 After turning:
Lower the wings into field position and resume
planting.
End Planting
 Stop the tractor.

Set the fan hydraulic circuit to float or neutral.
 Raise the planter and install transport cylinder
locks (page 27).
 Remove wing flex lock pins, and install pins in the
wing lock pin location (page 27).
 Fold the wings (page 28).

Turn on lights for transport.
!