Great Plains Compact Fine Grain Seeders Overview

Great Plains offers a versatile range of compact fine grain seeders engineered for precision seed placement and dependable performance across various tillage practices. These seeders feature advanced seed distribution systems, durable frames, and large-capacity hoppers suitable for vertical, conventional, conservation, and minimum tillage.

1. Specifications and Standard Features

• Models and Configurations: Available in working widths from 1.5 m to 3 m, with both mounted and pull-type options. Row spacing choices include 6", 7.25", and 7.5".
• Seed Hopper Capacities: Main hoppers range between 8.5 and 25 bushels (297.5 to 875 liters), with optional smaller hoppers designed for fine seeds such as clover and alfalfa.
• Seed Metering System: Utilizes a unique grooved feed cup combined with a 4-speed gearbox to ensure uniform, gentle seed delivery and precise seeding rates.
• Additional Hopper Options: Fertilizer hoppers with stainless steel components and native grass seed hoppers equipped with agitators and large cups to prevent clogging.
• Seed Placement Principles: Focus on accurate seed spacing, adjustable depth control (0-3.5 inches), and optimal seed-to-soil contact without lateral compaction.
• Safety and Convenience Features: Safety lights (except on smaller models), waterproof manual holders, grease banks for maintenance, and digital acre meters with LED displays.

2. Opener Discs and Seed Placement Mechanisms

• Series 06 Seeders: Employ a conservation tillage "Fluff and Plant" system with integral 13.5" cutting discs and double disc openers featuring 4mm wide blades and sealed triple-lip bearings.
• Seed Tube Design: Unique seed tube and tongue system places seeds at the bottom of the furrow, preventing seed bounce and uneven spacing common in competitor models.
• Downforce Control: Adjustable spring-loaded downforce ranging from 90 to 180 lbs, with a "W" type wedge for fine pressure tuning.
• Closing Wheels: Multiple options including single disc press wheels, wedge wheels, ribbed wheels, and double press wheels to firm soil over seeds for optimal emergence.
• Series 00 Seeders: Designed for conservation tillage with grooved feed cups and turbo openers, featuring adjustable depth control via a rear leveling wheel with 18 settings.

3. Tillage and Seeding Applications

• Minimum Tillage Models (3P500, 3P600, 3P500V): Compact widths (1.5 m and 1.8 m) ideal for narrow or challenging terrain such as orchards and vineyards.
• Conservation Tillage Models: Available in various widths with side wheel and pull-type options to accommodate different soil and residue conditions.
• Seed and Nutrient Placement: Emphasizes precise nutrient placement to minimize leaching and denitrification, utilizing Nutri-Pro® and Sprayer lines for fertilizer application.

4. Key Benefits and Best Practices

• Precision seed metering and placement ensure uniform stands and optimal germination.
• Adjustable downforce and depth controls allow adaptation to diverse soil conditions.
• Robust construction combined with maintenance-friendly features enhance durability and ease of use.
• Optional seed firmers (Keeton Seed Firmer® and Seed-Lok®) improve seed-to-soil contact, especially in moist soils.
• Multiple hopper options enable simultaneous planting of different seed types or combined seed and fertilizer application.

5. Summary Table Highlights

The document includes a detailed comparison table outlining model specifications such as working widths, row spacing, number of openers, tire sizes, horsepower requirements (35 to 100 hp), approximate weights (499 kg to 2476 kg), transport dimensions, opener series, depth ranges, downforce pressures, blade types, and hopper capacities. This facilitates informed selection based on farm size, crop type, and tillage practice.

6. Company Information

Great Plains Manufacturing, founded in 1976, is a leader in seed placement technology offering a comprehensive product line that meets diverse agricultural needs with proven field performance and innovation. The company operates multiple facilities in Kansas, USA, and the UK, emphasizing innovation, teamwork, and customer satisfaction.

Additional Technical Details

• Seed Drill Components: Discs open soil and press seeds into the ground; T-handle adjustments enable quick positioning of closing wheels.
• Seed Flow Control: Features high-visibility seed indicators, rotor-driven feeding cups, V-shaped metal plates for consistent seed flow, waterproof hopper covers, and seed waste guards.
• Model Highlights: Compact Seeder with 4-speed gearbox and 3-point hitch; 3P606NT and 606NT models with turbo cutting discs and multiple hopper options; 706NT model balancing versatility and productivity; 800 Seeder designed for small-scale farmers with advanced features; 3P806NT and 3P1006NT models with two-point hitch and rear lift wheels; 1006NT model with side wheels and foldable hitch for storage efficiency.
• Operational Features: Centralized lubrication, adjustable seed volume and depth controls, automatic seed metering disengagement during transport, hydraulic lifting and pressure application from tractor cab, and robust design for conservation and zero-till systems.

Company Mission and Support

Great Plains Manufacturing focuses on innovation and customer satisfaction, providing extensive dealer and customer support including multilingual resources, field adjustment guides, parts lookup, technical videos, and manuals. The company reserves the right to modify product specifications without prior notice and advises customers to consult dealers for precise details.

Contact Information

Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
1525 E. North Street, P.O. Box 5060, Salina, KS 67402-5060
Phone: 1-800-255-0132
Fax: 785-822-5600
Website: www.greatplainsmfg.com