Top Tips For a Smooth Running Planter

November 30, 2010

By: Margy Eckelkamp, Farm Journal Machinery Editor and Test Plot Director

Every year, take the time to make your planter run at its peak performance. In episode 6 of Corn College TV, Farm Journal Associate Field Agronomist Missy Bauer gives the top tips on planter transmissions.

"Look at your planter’s transmission," she says. "Take the chains and look for broken and frozen links. Sometimes when looking at chains it’s an obvious no-brainer, but sometimes it’s just one link that will make the transmission jerk."

Also check the bearings. Bauer says that the bearings at the main drive shaft will be bent or twisted over time.

Learn more in Episode 6 of Corn College TV. Bauer gives step by step guidance of what you can do in the shop to make sure you’re running a smooth-running planter.