The advantage operators are finding with the John Shearer mounted Airdrill starts with its ease of handling when working with medium powered tractors
John Shearer engineers set out to design a mounted Airdrill that would be ideal for farmers with small to medium size holdings that could operate the drill with medium-powered tractors.
And in doing so have designed three popular models with a sowing width of 5.875, 6.0 and 6.125m across and the advantage of setting the spacing at 125mm (5-in), 150mm (6-in), 175mm (7-in) respectively.
A definite advantage of all John Shearer mounted Airdrills is that transport width is less than 3 metres to comply with transport regulations and the distance of underframe road clearance is also adequate.
In the hands of livestock producers for instance they can sow into their pasture paddocks at wider sowing widths than a conventional seed drill, while still being able to get the drill around quickly due to its narrow width transport width.
The Airdrill has a two (2) compartment hopper with a total capacity of 2,400 litres mounted with an even split of 1208 litres at the front and back. Set onto a five (5) row frame, designed to maximise trash flow.
The frame is designed with a long lead between rows and a purposely deeper underframe clearance that enables it to handle more ground conditions.
The 5-row frame is fitted with high flotation tyres. The centre section has three (3) x 400/60–15.5, while 265/75R16 tyres are fitted to the wings.
The drive is fully electronic, replacing the more cumbersome chain and sprocket settings, and is easily controlled via a tablet that can be operated from inside the tractor or if required, outside the tractor cab next to the Airdrill.
Being electronic, maintenance is reduced and calibrating the seed and fertiliser rates are also much easier to change and control.
During the design phase of the John Shearer Airdrill, particular attention was given to a number of aspects including, ease of filling the hopper, strength of the frame and axles and the distribution module itself.
Engineers have succeeded in making the John Shearer mounted Airdrill simple to operate, with easy-to-calibrate sowing rates and have made it simple when it comes to an end-of-run or season cleanout.
The distribution module comprises two (2) 266mm (10.5-in) fluted metering rollers that are accessible via inspection doors.
Shut-off gates are used to stop the flow of grain and fertiliser while allowing the rollers to be inspected or cleaned without having to empty the hopper.
In addition, no roller changes are required when changing from fine to more coarse products such as pasture seeds to cereals. The complete distribution module is easily removed for servicing.
A hydraulic motor drives the fan with an oil cooler/heat exchanger being a standard function on all models. A dual seeding kit is also available in lieu of the standard single boot.
John Shearer mounted Airdrills can be fitted with various optional ground tools to fit every soil type, namely double disc openers, JSL ‘630’ spring release tine assemblies or coil tines.
Coil tine models are equipped as standard with baker T blades, while the ‘630’ tine units are fitted with super seeder points.
To raise and lower the Airdrill during work, each axle arm has been fitted with a hydraulic cylinder.
This is phased to maintain level sowing across the full width of the machine. Four (4) 760mm (4 x 30-in) cylinders are fitted to ensure quick no-fuss folding for transport.
A front coulter bar kit is available for all models and for Airdrills fitted with spring release or coil tines there are double walking press wheel assemblies, a loading/unloading auger, harrows and ISOBUS as an option.
For further model information go to the John Shearer website at www.Johnshearer.com or call John Shearer direct on tel: 08 8468 4190, or email sales@johnshearer.com.au
To find your nearest John Shearer dealer, go to the dealer locator here.
John Shearer AS2400LT Airdrill models
