$200 Double Your Money Winner: Spare Shank Holder
Mark Hofer |
While drilling winter wheat in dry conditions, the shanks often break on our C-shank drill. I came up with the idea to create a shank holder for the drill that holds a field-ready shank with the opener and seed boot already assembled. I used 2"x15"-long square tubing for the holder and welded two 2½"x2½" tubes on the side, notched out on top to cradle the shanks. I welded a bolt to the center of the tubing cradle, then put a C-channel on top that fits over the welded bolt to secure the shanks. For a mere $20 and two hours of labor, I don’t have to hassle with broken shanks and I always have a spare. Hofer is part of the New Rockport Colony farming operation in Choteau, Mont. They raise wheat, barley, canola and peas.
Eliminate Grain Trailer Spills
Sometimes an extra visual reminder can help eliminate grain trailer spills. We added wheel nut indicators to the handles that open the hopper doors on our trailers. When the points align, the door is closed. A quick glance at the handle and we have the assurance to move on.
Trey Shidler
Clay City, Ind.
An Easier Way to Reset a Round Baler Latch
Resetting the latch on our Claas round baler is impossible for me to do at 83 years old. Actually, we have three generations who work on our farm, and everyone has difficulty. To make the process easier, I made a tee handle with a hook and back plate. The hook slips under the lift bar, and the extra leverage is all it takes to lift the latch. The curved back plate rests on the rubber roller to avoid any damage. Now, I can go bale hay without asking for help. (Finch, who lives overseas, has been receiving Farm Journal from a cousin in New York for three decades.)
Nigel Finch
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
How to Enter
- Email: $100-Ideas@farmjournal.com
- Online: www.AgWeb.com/ideas
- Mail: Farm Journal $100 Ideas, P.O. Box 1188, Johnston, IA 50131-9421
Submit your unpublished idea with a description, photo or sketch, address and phone number.
What You Win
- All winners receive a hat and check and are featured in Farm Journal and on AgWeb.
- The Double Your Money winner receives $200 and a coupon for up to $5,000 on new equipment built New Holland Smart. Their winning idea is also featured on “AgDay” television and “AgriTalk” radio.
- All other winners receive $100.
