SMALL AND middle-sized farm operators looking for a seeder need look no further than John Shearer and its new electric drive mounted airdrill.
Available in sowing widths of 4.5 m and 6m, with sowing spacing options of 125 mm (5”) or 150 mm (6”), the electronic drive system replaces traditional chains and sprockets notably reducing maintenance.
Calibrating seed and fertiliser rates are made much easier than ever before, with control via a tablet from the comfort of the tractor seat or next to the airdrill.
Both models feature a transport width of less than 3 m allowing producers to sow into paddocks at wider sowing widths than conventional seed drills, while retaining a narrow width for transportation and generous under frame clearance.
The airdrill has a two-compartment hopper with a total capacity of 2400 litres and the five-row frame has been optimised for maximum trash flow and features long lead between rows.
High-flotation tyres are fitted as standard, the centre section features two 400/60–15.5 tyres, while the wider 6 m model benefits from the addition of a 12.5/80–15.3 third tyre for extra flotation, both models have 215/85r16 tyres fitted to the wings.
During the design phase particular attention was given to a number of aspects including ease of filling the hopper and strength of the frame and axles, along with ease of calibration and cleaning.
The distribution module consists of two 266 mm fluted metering rollers which are easily accessible via inspection doors.
Shut off gates stop the flow of grain and fertiliser and allow the rollers to be inspected or cleaned without emptying the hopper. In addition, no roller changes are required when changing from pasture seed to cereal.
The complete distribution module is easily removed for servicing.
The fan is driven by a hydraulic motor with an oil cooler/heat exchanger a standard feature on all models.
For rising and lowering, the airdrill is fitted with a hydraulic cylinder phased to maintain level sowing across the width of the machine and two 4´´ x 16´´ cylinders are used when folding for transport.
The new John Shearer mounted airdrill can be fitted with various optional ground tools including double disc openers, JSL ‘630’ spring release tines assemblies or coil tines.
Coil tine models are equipped as standard with Baker T blades and the ‘630’ tine units with super seeder points.
A dual seeding kit is available in lieu of the standard single boot and a front coulter bar kit is available for all models.
Airdrills fitted with spring release or coil tines can also be optionally specified with double walking press wheel assemblies and harrows.
For further information see a John Shearer dealer or visit johnshearer.com.au