When you’re on the hunt for an air seeder that will take care of all of your seeding needs, you know you can turn to John Deere for the right piece of equipment. But what does an air seeder do? How is it different from your standard everyday planter? The fact of the matter is that there are many key differences, and air seeders from John Deere have several special features that make them reliable, efficient machines to have on the farm.
What is an Air Seeder?
An air seeder is a machine that helps agricultural producers who are looking to make seeding quicker and more efficient. This heavy-duty machine was created in order to eliminate the need to till the soil before seeding. It is known to be able to handle the toughest of terrain.
What’s the Difference Between an Air Seeder and a Planter?
An air seeder will volumetrically meter the product right below each tank, whereas a planter will singulate each seed right above the row. Depending on your needs, you may turn to an air seeder over a planter for your work out in the field.
How Do Air Seeders Work?
An air seeder works with fans that blow air into its primary tubes and as the air is blowing, the meter is turning. Each seed is dropped into the airflow, then it’s taken down to the tool. The primary hoses take the seed and fertilizer all the way to the tower. From there, the seed and fertilizer are distributed into the secondary hoses at the towers. Afterward, they are taken into the openers, which put the seed into the ground.
The opener blade opens the trench so that the seed can be placed at the bottom. The gauge wheel defines the depth at which the seed is being placed. The seed is blown into the seed boot, and the pressing wheel pushes that particular seed into the soil to ensure full contact.
What are the Benefits of an Air Seeder?
Air seeders provide several benefits for farmers looking to improve the yield and efficiency of their seeding operations. A few benefits of an air seeder include:
- Ability to handle bulk quantities of seeds
- Capable of plating across large acreages efficiency
- Easy for farmers to use and operate
- Requires low maintenance and upkeep
- Durable, long lasting design
- Increase farm efficiency
- Reduced manual labor
What are the Features of John Deere Air Seeders?
Deere air seeders have a wide array of features, depending on the make and model you choose. Metering of the seed is typically conducted at the tanks of Deere air seeders to ensure full accuracy. Air systems are also specially designed to gently deliver seed to openers, and machines that are equipped with SeedStar 2 alert users to any blockages that may cause an issue during the planting process.
Tips for Buying a Used Air Seeder
If you’re in the market for a used air seeder, there are a few important things to consider to ensure you’re getting quality equipment that has been maintained properly. Here are a few tips to think about when looking for your next used air seeder.
Review the Exterior
The first step to buying a used air seeder is to be sure it visually is in good condition. This means checking for any visible damage, checking beyond minor dings and paint chippings, looking for cracked or missing pieces, big dents, or even leaks within the hoses of the equipment.
Check the Specs
There are many different types and manufacturers of air seeders, so it’s important to be sure the used air seeder has the specifications fit for your needs. Checking the specs of an air seeder include measuring the width, identifying if it’s the right amount of hydraulic output, checking the current mileage, etc.
Inspect the Air Tank
Air tanks should be rust free and free from any hydraulic leaks. Identify how many compartments and bushels the used air seeder can hold, and if their model can use a saddle tank to increase the holding capacity. If able to, check the air flow by disconnecting the hose from the openings and face it upwards. A good air flow should send seeds at least 12” upwards.
Examine the Seed Openers
Openers help put seeds into the soil, so it’s crucial for the seeder to have well operating openers. Even more so, the right size. Examine that the spacing and size of the openers are right for the kinds of seeds you’ll be planting, otherwise, the used air seeder will be inoperable for your farming needs.
Inspect the Electronics
The electronics on an air seeder include the controllers, scales, and screens. Be sure that all features of these electronics are working properly without any glitches. If you can, check to see if the wires have been chewed up or worn down by small animals. Failure to inspect the electronics of your used air seeder can lead to expensive repairs in the future.
Check the Undercarriage
Air seeders are equipped with wheels to help them maneuver. Check to be sure the tires have quality tread and that they are in good condition, and that the rims are fully intact with no cracks or damage.
Background Check
Before buying a used air seeder, be sure to verify the serial number and ask for the documents and maintenance records to ensure the equipment is legitimate. If there seems to be a part that has required replacement or extensive care, it may be a sign that there is a recurring problem with the used air seeder.
If you have any questions about air seeders from John Deere, you can contact your local John Deere dealer.
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