Great Plains 2525A Operator Manual
Table of Contents Index
20- and 25-Foot 3-Point Drills
Operator Manual
2025A and 2525A
®
with Air-Pro
Manufacturing, Inc.
www.greatplainsmfg.com
Seed Meters
Read the operator manual entirely. When you see this symbol, the
subsequent instructions and warnings are serious - follow without
exception. Your life and the lives of others depend on it!
29792
Illustrations may show optional equipment not supplied with standard unit or may
depict similar models where a topic is identical.
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
© Copyright 2013 Printed 2013-06-04 118-999M
Table of Contents Index
EN
Table of Contents Index
Table of Contents Index
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Cover Index iii
Table of Contents
Important Safety Information......................................1
Safety Decals.................................................................5
Introduction ................................................................10
Models Covered...........................................................10
Description of Unit........................................................10
Intended Usage........................................................10
Document Family......................................................10
Using This Manual........................................................10
Definitions.................................................................10
Owner Assistance ........................................................11
Preparation and Setup...............................................12
Initial Setup...................................................................12
Post-Delivery/Seasonal Setup......................................12
Pre-Planting Setup.......................................................12
Hitching Tractor to Drill.................................................13
3-Point Hitch.............................................................13
Hydraulic Hose Hookup............................................14
Protecting Fan Hydraulic Motor Seals......................14
Electrical Hookup......................................................15
Raise Parking Stands (2025A only)..........................15
Leveling the Drill...........................................................16
Leveling: Offset-Single Wheel..................................16
Meter and Row Setup...................................................18
Marker Setup................................................................18
Operating Instructions...............................................19
Pre-Start Checklist .......................................................19
Drill Weight...................................................................19
Transporting.................................................................20
Check Tractor Capacity and Configuration...............20
Remove Extra Drill Weights......................................20
Unload Seed Box .....................................................20
Secure Markers........................................................20
Transport Checklist...................................................20
Loading Seed...............................................................21
Air System Operation...................................................22
Air and Seeding System Overview...........................23
Fan Circuit Operation ...........................................24
Fan General Operating Information......................25
Butterfly Valve Operation:.....................................25
Acremeter Operation....................................................26
Normal Operating Sequence....................................26
Acremeter Programming ......................................26
Dormant Display.......................................................26
Ladder Operation .........................................................27
Monitor Operation (Option)..........................................27
Marker Operation (Option)...........................................28
Independent Marker Operation................................ 28
Single-Circuit Sequenced Marker Operation............28
Both Sides Unfolded (with Sequence Valve) .......28
Field Set-Up Checklists................................................29
Planting........................................................................30
Checking Planting Rate ............................................... 30
Short-Term Parking......................................................31
Long-Term Storage......................................................31
Adjustments ...............................................................32
Setting Planting Rate...................................................33
Seed Disk Selection and Installation........................33
Range and Transmission......................................... 33
Drive Speed Range Sprockets.............................33
Transmission Sprockets.......................................33
Shutters and Manifold Pressure...............................33
Checking Planting Rate............................................33
Marker Adjustments.....................................................34
Marker Disk Adjustment...........................................34
Fan and Adjustment.....................................................35
Furrow Check:......................................................35
Fine-Tuning (with optional Seed Monitor)................ 36
Alternate Skip/Double Check ...............................36
25AP Series Row Unit Adjustments.............................37
Row Unit Down Pressure.........................................38
Adjusting Down-Force..........................................38
Unit-Mount Cleaner Adjustments............................. 40
Coulter Adjustments.................................................41
Coulter Depth Adjustment....................................41
Coulter Row Alignment ........................................42
Row-Unit Opener Disk Adjustments.........................43
Setting Planting Depth .........................................43
Opener Disc Contact Region ...............................43
Adjusting Disc Contact.........................................43
Side Gauge Wheel Adjustment................................44
Adjusting Gauge Wheel Scrapers........................45
Seed Meter Setup and Adjustment.......................... 46
Meter Rain Cover.................................................46
Seed Inlet Shutter Adjustment .............................46
Optimal Seed Pool Slopes ...................................47
Meter Re-Fill......................................................... 47
Air-Pro® Meter Disk Installation ............................... 48
Removing a Seed Disk......................................... 49
Row Unit Shut-Off.................................................... 49
© Copyright 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013 All rights Reserved
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. provides this publication“as is” without warrantyofanykind,eithere xpressedorimplied.Whilee v eryprecaution has been
takeninthe preparation of this manual, Great Plains Manufacturing,Inc. assumes no responsibility forerrors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Great Plains Manufacturing,Inc. reserves the rightto revise and improve its products as
it sees fit. This publication describes the state of this product at the time of its publication, and may not reflect the product in the future.
2013-06-04 Cover Index 118-999M
Trademarks of Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. include: Singulator Plus, Swath Command, Terra-Tine.
Registered Trademarks of Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. include:
Air-Pro, Clear-Shot, Discovator,Great Plains, Land Pride, MeterCone, Nutri-Pro, Seed-Lok, Solid Stand,
Terra-Guard, Turbo-Chisel,Turbo-Chopper, TurboMax, Turbo-Till, Ultra-Till, Verti-Till, Whirlfilter, Yield-Pro.
Brand and Product Names that appear and are owned by others are trademarks of their respective owners.
Printed in the United States of America
iv 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Sprocket Indexing (Stagger) ................................ 52
Seed Firmer Adjustments ........................................52
Keeton Seed Firmer Adjustment..........................52
Seed-Lok
®
Seed Firmer Lock-Up ........................53
Seed-Lok® Seed Firmer Lock-Up (old style) ....... 53
Press Wheel Adjustment.......................................... 54
Press Wheel Down Pressure...............................54
Press Wheel Stagger...........................................54
Press Wheel Centering........................................55
Troubleshooting......................................................... 56
Planting Rate Problems............................................... 56
Suggested Furrow Check:.................................... 56
Seed Pool Troubleshooting..........................................57
Population Troubleshooting Charts..............................58
Maintenance and Lubrication...................................65
Maintenance ................................................................ 65
Material Clean-Out ......................................................66
Seed Box Clean-Out................................................ 66
Meter Clean-Out ......................................................66
Funnel Conversion...............................................66
Alternate Meter Clean-Out...................................67
Meter Brush Maintenance............................................68
Meter Brush Replacement .......................................69
Tufted Brush Replacement .................................. 69
Strip Brush Replacement.....................................69
Seed Disk Maintenance........................................... 70
Cleaning and Storing Seed Disks ........................ 70
Seed Tube Maintenance..............................................71
Sliding Seed Tube Replacement .............................71
Boot and Grommet Maintenance............................. 71
Chain Maintenance......................................................72
Chain Slack..............................................................72
Chain Clips............................................................... 72
Meter Drive Chain.................................................... 72
Spreaders and Scrapers..............................................73
Row-Unit Side Wheels.................................................73
Seed Flap Replacement ............................................74
Marker Maintenance.................................................... 75
Marker Shear Bolt.................................................... 75
Marker Grease Seal Cap .........................................75
Bleeding Marker Hydraulics..................................... 76
Lubrication ................................................................... 77
Seed Lubricants...........................................................80
Options ....................................................................... 81
Seed Monitor................................................................81
Speed Sensors ........................................................81
Radar Y-Cables .......................................................81
Hitch Setback Kit..........................................................82
Weight Bracket Kit ....................................................... 82
Markers........................................................................82
Seed Lubricant.............................................................83
Seed Tube Plug........................................................... 83
Lock-Up Pin..................................................................83
Unit-Mounted Row Options ..........................................84
Row Cleaners...........................................................84
Unit-Mounted Disk Coulters......................................84
Coulter Blades......................................................84
Gauge Wheel Scrapers ............................................85
Inside Disk Scrapers.................................................85
Seed Meter Disks .....................................................86
Clean-Out Container.................................................86
Seed Firmers............................................................87
Seed-Lok® Seed Firmer.......................................87
Keeton Seed Firmer..............................................87
Row Unit Press Wheels............................................87
Appendix A - Reference Information ........................88
Specifications and Capacities.......................................88
2025A Specifications and Capacities .......................88
Tire Inflation Chart........................................................88
2525A Specifications and Capacities .......................89
Torque Values Chart ....................................................90
Hydraulic Diagrams......................................................91
Fan Hydraulics (standard) ........................................91
Marker Hydraulics.....................................................92
Dual Sequenced Markers (Option) .......................92
Independent Markers (Option)..............................93
Chain Routing...............................................................94
25AP Final Meter Drive.............................................94
Ground Drive Chains................................................95
Appendix B - Initial and Option Setup......................96
Pre-Delivery Items........................................................96
Install Press Wheels.................................................96
Initial Setup...................................................................97
Seed Monitor Console Installation (Option)..............97
Speed Sensor Setup (Option)...................................97
Magnetic Sensor Gap...........................................97
Initial Marker Setup...................................................98
Marker Speed Adjustment ....................................98
Sequenced Dual Marker Speed Adjustment.........98
Independent Marker Speed Adjustment ...............98
Marker Chain Adjustment .....................................99
Marker Lifting Slack ..............................................99
Folding Slack........................................................99
Marker Transport Carrier..........................................99
Marker Extension................................................100
Marker Extension Adjustment.............................100
Marker Extension Values....................................101
Reading a Marker Extension Diagram................101
Model 2025A Marker Extension..........................101
Model 2525A Marker Extension..........................102
Option Installation...................................................104
122-278S Scraper Installation ............................104
Warranty.....................................................................105
Index ..........................................................................107
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index 1
Important Safety Information
Look for Safety Symbol
The SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL indicates there is a
potential hazard to personal safety involved and extra
safety precaution must be taken. When you see this
symbol, be alert and carefully read the message that follows it. In addition to design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are
dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and
proper training of personnel involved in the operation,
transport, maintenance and storage of equipment.
Be Aware of Signal Words
Signal words designate a degree or level of hazard seriousness.
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will resultin death or serious injury.
This signal word is limitedto themost extreme situations,
typically for machine components that, for functional purposes, cannot be guarded.
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury, and includes hazards that are exposed when
guards are removed.It may also be used to alert against
unsafe practices.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
Prepare for Emergencies
▲ Be prepared if a fire starts
▲ Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher handy.
▲ Keep emergency numbers for doctor, ambulance, hospital
and fire department near phone.
Be Familiar with Safety Decals
▲ Read and understand “Safety Decals” on page 5, thor-
oughly.
▲ Read all instructions noted on the decals.
▲ Keep decals clean. Replace damaged, faded and illegible
decals.
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2 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Wear Protective Equipment
▲ Wear protective clothing and equipment.
▲ Wear clothing and equipment appropriate forthe job. Avoid
loose-fitting clothing.
▲ Because prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause hear-
ing impairment or hearing loss, wear suitable hearing protection such as earmuffs or earplugs.
▲ Because operating equipment safely requires your full
attention, avoid wearing entertainment headphones while
operating machinery.
Handle Chemicals Properly
Agricultural chemicals can be dangerous. Improper use
can seriously injure persons, animals, plants, soil and
property.
▲ Read and follow chemical manufacturer’s instructions.
▲ Wear protective clothing.
▲ Handle all chemicals with care.
▲ Avoid inhaling smoke from any type of chemical fire.
▲ Store or dispose of unused chemicals as specified by chemi-
cal manufacturer.
Avoid High Pressure Fluids
Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin,
causing serious injury.
▲ Avoid the hazard by relieving pressure before disconnecting
hydraulic lines.
▲ Use a piece of paper or cardboard, NOT BODY PARTS, to
check for suspected leaks.
▲ Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles when
working with hydraulic systems.
▲ If an accident occurs, seek immediate medical assistance
from a physician familiar with this type of injury.
Use Safety Lights and Devices
Slow-moving tractors and towed implements can create
a hazard when driven on public roads. They are difficult
to see, especially at night.
▲ Useflashing warning lights and turn signals whenever driv-
ing on public roads.
Use lights and devices provided with implement
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 3
Keep Riders Off Machinery
Riders obstruct the operator’s view. Riders could be
struck by foreign objects or thrown from the machine.
▲ Never allow children to operate equipment.
▲ Keep all bystanders away from machine during operation.
Transport Machinery Safely
Maximum transport speed for implement is 20 mph (32
kph), 13 mph (22 kph) in turns. Some rough terrains
require a slower speed. Sudden braking can cause a
towed load to swerve and upset.
▲ Do not exceed 20 mph. Never travel at a speed which does
not allow adequate control ofsteering andstopping. Reduce
speed if towed load is not equipped with brakes.
▲ Comply with state and local laws.
▲ Do not tow an implement that, when fully loaded, weighs
more than 1.5 times the weight of towing vehicle.
▲ Carry reflectors or flags to mark drill in case of breakdown
on the road.
▲ Keep clear of overhead power lines and other obstructions
when transporting. Refer to transport dimensions under
“Specifications and Capacities” on page 88.
▲ Do not fold or unfold the drill while the tractor is moving
Shutdown and Storage
▲ Lower drill, put tractor in park, turn off engine, and remove
the key.
▲ Secure drill using blocks and supports provided.
▲ Detach and store drill in an area where children normally
do not play.
Tire Safety
Tire changing can be dangerous and should be performed by trained personnel using correct tools and
equipment.
▲ When inflating tires, use a clip-on chuck and extension hose
long enough for you to stand to one side–not in front of or
over tire assembly. Use a safety cage if available.
▲ When removing and installing wheels, use wheel-handling
equipment adequate for weight involved.
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4 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Practice Safe Maintenance
▲ Understand procedure before doing work. Use proper
tools and equipment. Refer to this manual for additional
information.
▲ Work in a clean, dry area.
▲ Lower the drill, put tractor in park, turn off engine, and
remove key before performing maintenance.
▲ Make sure all moving parts have stopped and all system
pressure is relieved.
▲ Allow drill to cool completely.
▲ Disconnect battery ground cable (-) before servicing or
adjusting electrical systems or before welding on drill.
▲ Inspect all parts. Make sure parts are in good condition
and installed properly.
▲ Remove buildup of grease, oil or debris.
▲ Remove all tools and unused parts from drill before oper-
ation.
Safety At All Times
Thoroughly read and understand the instructions in this
manual before operation. Read all instructions noted on
the safety decals.
▲ Be familiar with all drill functions.
▲ Operate machinery from the driver’s seat only.
▲ Do not leave drill unattended with tractor engine running.
▲ Do not stand between the tractor and drill during hitching.
▲ Keep hands, feet and clothing away from power-driven
parts.
▲ Wear snug-fitting clothing to avoid entanglement with mov-
ing parts.
▲ Watch out for wires, trees, etc., when folding and raising
drill. Make sure all persons are clear of working area.
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 5
%
%
Safety Decals
Safety Reflectors and Decals
Your implement comes equipped with all lights, safety
reflectors and decals in place. They were designed to
help you safely operate your implement.
▲ Read and follow decal directions.
▲ Keep lights in operating condition.
▲ Keep all safety decals clean and legible.
▲ Replace all damaged or missing decals. Order new decals
from your Great Plains dealer. Refer to this section for
proper decal placement.
▲ When ordering new parts or components, also request cor-
responding safety decals.
To install new decals:
1. Clean the area on which the decal is to be placed.
2. Peel backing from decal. Press firmly on surface,
being careful not to cause air bubbles under decal.
818-003C
Slow Moving Vehicle Reflector
On the back of the left seed box, near drill center;
1 total
838-266C
Red Reflectors
On rear of walkboards, outside ends,
and near center of each seed box;
four total
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6 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
%
838-267C
Daytime Reflectors
On rear of walkboards, outside ends (inboard of reds),
and near center of each seed box (inboard of reds);
four total
29791_66
838-265C
Amber Reflectors
On walkboard ends above ladders,
on the front face of the top front tool bar, outside ends;
four total
On markers (option),
front face of smaller inner arm tube;
one or two total
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19196_33%
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 7
818-557C Danger (in Spanish):
Advising non-English readers to seek translation
On side of tongue; one total
29791_66%
818-590C Danger: Crushing Hazard
Front face of lower front tool bar, left of 3-point hitch;
one total
818-599C Danger: Electrocution Hazard
front face of smaller inner arm tube;
one or two total
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8 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
818-682C (Option) Warning: Marker Pinch/Crush
On markers (option),
On outside face of main inner arm tube when folded,
on front face of smaller inner arm tube;
two or four total
818-337C Warning: Speed Hazard
On front of top front tool bar, left of hitch;
one total
19196_33%
29791_66%
818-339C Warning: High Pressure Fluid Hazard
On front of lower front tool bar, left of hitch;
one total
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 9
WARNING
To avoid serious injury or death:
Watch your step when climbing ladder or
walking on walkboard.
818-339C Warning: Falling Hazard
On walkboard ends, at top of ladder;
two total
838-102C
29791_66%
818-398C Caution: Tires Not A Step
On front of top front tool bar, near gauge wheels;
two total
818-587C Caution: Read Operator’s Manual
On front face of lower front tool bar, left of hitch;
one total
29791_66%
29791_66%
.tif
Standard(non-twin)
600 dpi
single is hidden
behind this mask.
818-752C (single gauge wheels) Caution: Tire Pressure and Torque
On outside rim of each wheel;
four total
2013-06-04 Table of Contents Index 118-999M
26215
10 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Introduction
Great Plains welcomes you to its growing family of new
product owners. The 20- and 25-Foot 3-Point Drills
with Air-Pro
been designed with care and built by skilled workers
using quality materials. Proper setup, maintenance, and
safe operating practices will help you get years of satisfactory use from the machine.
®
Seed Meters (2025A and 2525A) have
Models Covered
2025A-12TR36 20-Foot, 12-Row (6 Twin 8in), 36in
2025A-12TR38 20-Foot, 12-Row (6 Twin 8in), 38in
2525A-16TR36 25-Foot, 16-Row (8 Twin 8in), 36in
2525A-16TR38 25-Foot, 16-Row (8 Twin 8in), 38in
2525A-16TR3815 25-Foot, 16-Row (8 Twin 15in), 38in
2525A-16TR40 25-Foot, 16-Row (8 Twin 8in), 40in
2525A-20TR30 25-Foot, 20-Row (10 Twin 8in), 30in
Description of Unit
The 2025Aand 2525A are fully-mounted three-point precision seeding implements. The 2025A and 2525A
include 25AP Series openers with Air-Pro® meters supporting a wide choice of seed disks. The drill accepts
optional unit-mounted row accessories.
R
L
Figure 1
3-Point Drill
R
F
U
B
L
D
29792
_45%
Intended Usage
Use the 3-Pointdrill toseed production-agriculture crops
in conventional or minimum tillage conditions. Do not
modify the drill for use withattachments other thanGreat
Plains options and accessories specified for use with the
2025A and 2525A.
Document Family
118-999M Owner’s Manual (this document)
118-999B Seed Rate Charts
118-999P Parts Manual
Using This Manual
This manual will familiarize you with safety, assembly,
operation, adjustments, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Read this manual and follow the recommendations to help ensure safe and efficient operation.
The information in this manual is current at printing.
Some parts may change to assure top performance.
Definitions
The following terms are used throughout this manual.
A crucial point of information related to the pr eceding topic.
Read and follow the directions to r emain safe , avoid serious
damage to equipment and ensure desired field results.
Note: Useful information related to the preceding topic.
Right-hand and left-hand as used in
this manual are determined by facing
the direction the machine will travel
while in use unless otherwise stated.
An orientation rose in some line art
illustrations shows the directions of:
Up, Back, Left, Down, Front, Right.
F
R
U
B
L
D
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Introduction 11
Owner Assistance
If you need customer service or repair parts, contact a
Great Plains dealer. They have trained personnel, repair
parts and equipment specially designed for Great Plains
products.
Refer to Figure 2
Your machine’s parts were specially designed and
should only be replaced with Great Plains parts. Always
use the serial and model number when ordering parts
from your Great Plains dealer.The serial-number plate is
located on the left end of the top front tool bar.
Record your 3-Point drill model and serial number here
for quick reference:
Model Number:__________________________
Serial Number: __________________________
Your Great Plains dealer wants you to be satisfied with
your new machine. If you do not understand any part of
this manual orare not satisfiedwith the service received,
please take the following actions.
1. Discuss the matter with your dealership service
manager.Make sure they areawareof any problems
so they can assist you.
2. If you are still unsatisfied, seekout theowner or general manager of the dealership.
Figure 2
Serial Number Plate
For further assistance write to:
Product Support
Great Plains Mfg. Inc., Service Department
PO Box 5060
Salina, KS 67402-5060
18307
785-823-3276
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12 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Preparation and Setup
This section helps you prepare your tractor and 2025A
and 2525A Drill for use, and covers tasks thatneed to be
done seasonally, or when the tractor/drill configuration
changes.
Before using the drill in the field, you must hitch it to a
suitable tractor, inspect systems and level the drill.
Before using the drill for the first time, and periodically
thereafter, certain adjustments and calibrations are
required.
Initial Setup
See “Appendix B - Initial and Option Setup” on
page 96 for pre-delivery items (normally completed by
dealer), and first-time/infrequent setup tasks, including:
• (Marker option) adjust marker extension and speed
(page 98).
• (Option) install seed monitor console in tractor
(page 97).
Post-Delivery/Seasonal Setup
On initial delivery,use witha new tractor, andseasonally,
check and as necessary, complete these items before
continuing to the routine setup items:
• (Marker option) bleed hydraulic system (page 72).
• (Option) radar calibration (separate manual).
• (Marker option) de-grease exposed cylinder rods if so
protected at last storage.
Pre-Planting Setup
Complete this checklist before routine setup:
❑ Read and understand “Important Safety Informa-
tion” on page 1.
❑ Check that all working parts are moving freely, bolts
are tight, and cotter pins are spread.
❑ Check that all grease fittings are in place and lubri-
cated. See “Lubrication” on page 77.
❑ Check that all safety decals and reflectors are cor-
rectly located and legible. Replace if damaged. See
“Safety Decals” on page 5.
❑ Inflate tires to pressure recommended and tighten
wheel bolts as specified. See “Tire Inflation Chart”
on page 88.
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 13
Hitching Tractor to Drill
3-Point Hitch
Crushing Hazard:
Do not stand or place any body part between planter andmoving tractor. You may be severely injured or killed by being
crushed between the tractor and planter. Stop tractor engine
and set parking brake before attaching cables and hoses.
1. Raise or lower tractor three-point arms as needed
and pin lower arms to drill.
2. Pin upper arm to drill. For category III and III-N tractors, install hitch pin in the lower hole. For category
IV-N tractors, install hitch pin in the upper hole.
3. Slowly raise drill. Watch for cab interference.
4. Adjust top three-point link so that top edge of drill
box is parallel with ground when drilling.
Note: Do notuse linkto adjust openerdepth. For opener
adjustments, refer to page 43.
5. Set your tractor three-point-draft control to float position.
Load Sway Hazard:
Adjust 3-point hitch arms and sway blocks to minimize any
side-to-side sway to assure proper tracking in the field, and
safe road travel.
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14 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Hydraulic Hose Hookup
Great Plains hydraulichoses are color coded to help you
hookup hoses to your tractor outlets. Hoses that go to
the same remote valve are marked with the same color.
Color Hydraulic Function
Black Fan (3 hoses)
Green Markers
Refer to Figure 3
To distinguish hoses on the same hydraulic circuit, refer
to hose label. The hose under an extended-cylinder symbol feeds a cylinder base end. The hose under a
retracted-cylinder symbol feeds a cylinder rod end.
For the hydraulic motor, connect the hose under the
retracted cylinder symbol to the pressure side of the
motor. Connect the hose under the extended cylinder
symbol to the return side of the motor.
The fan motor further requires hookup of a third line,
which returns hydraulic fluid from the fan motor case.
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Relieve pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines. Use
paper or cardboard, NOT BODY PARTS, to check for leaks.
Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles when
working with hydraulic systems. Escaping fluidunder pressure
can have sufficient pressure to penetrate the skin causing serious injury. If an accident occurs, seek immediate medical
assistance from a physician familiar with this type of injury.
Only trained personnel should work on system hydraulics.
Machine Damage Risk:
Case Drain Hose must be attached first,
prior to inlet and return hoses being connected.
Case Drain Hose must be detached last,
to prevent damage to the fan motor.
Protecting Fan Hydraulic Motor Seals
Low Pressure (Case) Drain Connection
1. Attach case drain hose to low pressure drain connection.
Note: Case drain hose has the smaller1⁄4in I.D. hose
and small, flat-face, connector.
2. Connect low pressure motor return hoseto low pressure return connector. It is distinguished by a large
(1.06in/2.7cm diameter) quick coupler.
Machine Damage Risk:
DO NOT connect the case drain line to a
power-beyond-port.
3. Connect hydraulic hoses to tractor remotes.
Figure 3
Marker Hose Label
27270
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 15
Electrical Hookup
Refer to Figure 4
Make sure tractor isshut down with accessory power off
before making connections.
1. Mate lighting connector to tractor outlet.
2. Option: mate monitor connector to tractor harness.
3. Mate any accessory or aftermarket electrical connectors.
Make connections prior to drill movement. Some drill
hydraulic circuits are under monitor control.
1
2
Raise Parking Stands (2025A only)
Refer to Figure 5
1. Use tractor 3-point to raise drill enough to relieve
weight from stands .
2. Remove pin .
3. Slide stand up in mount .
4. Re-pin at lower stand hole .
4
3
5
6
Figure 4
Connector Identification
5
3
Figure 5
Model 2025A Parking Stand
25236
25237
4
6
26221
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16 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Leveling the Drill
For proper operation, and maximum compensation for
varying ground conditions, the openerparallel armsneed
to be parallel to slightly up-hill in normal lowered field
operation. This is controlled by two factors:
• the opener tool bar height, which is controlled by
adjustments to the gauge wheels, and;
• front-to-back level, which is controlled by the 3-point
hitch.
The procedure for setting initial drill height and checking
front-to-back level is:
1. Set gauge wheel adjustments to bedded or non-bed-
ded, via turnbuckle or link and block.
2. Lower drill onto gauge wheels with 3-point.
Set circuit to Float.
3. Adjust 3-point to recommended initial opener tool
bar height.
4. Verify front-to-back level, and adjust with 3-point.
Re-check height.
Make the same adjustmenton both gauge wheel assemblies.
Check that drill is still level side-to-side after setup.
Leveling: Offset-Single Wheel
The offset-single gauge wheel adjusts for bedding by
changing the turnbuckle length.
Refer to Figure 6
1. Check the link length. The factory setting for link
1
4
26in
1
171⁄2in
length , measured at center-lines, is:
This corresponds to an opener tool bar height of:
This is for non-bedded planting.
To adjust the drill for bedded planting:
2. Hitch it to a suitabletractor.Move it torepresentative
bedded ground, with the wheels between beds.
3. Lower the drill toplanting position andset the3-point
hitch circuit to Float.
2
3
Figure 6
Offset-Single Wheel Turnbuckle
1
27221
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 17
Refer to Figure 7
Note: This presumes a planting depth of 1.75in. If your
depth is different, re-adjust the tool bar height
when adjusting the press-wheels (page 54).
4. Adjust drill distance between bottom of opener tool
bar and planting ground (bed tops):
Tool bar height 26in (66cm)
4
26in
4
Refer to Figure 6 on page 16
5. To adjust turnbuckle length, loosen jam nut . Turn
turnbuckle to shorten or lengthen as necessary.
3
2
13/4in
When adjusting the turnbuckle length, remember:
+ Lengthening turnbuckle raises drill.
- Shortening turnbuckle lowers drill.
Re-tighten jam nut when height is final.
Figure 7
Offset-Single Wheel Height
29820
Note: Do not expose more than 3in (7.6cm) of thread at
either end of turnbuckle.
6. Level drill with top three-point link.
Refer to Figure 8
7. Level drill with top of three-point link. Adjust so that
row units are inclined slightly uphill, measured at
5
the ends of the parallel arms:
1 inch
Arm inclination 1in maximum
5
5
The 1in dimension shown is a general dimension that
varies with planting conditions.
Equipment Damage/Planting Depth Risks:
Ensure the opener mount is running higher than the opener
body. This ensures ample reserve for opener up-float if the
opener strikes a rock or other object.
Figure 8
Offset-Single Wheel Opener Level
29821
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18 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Meter and Row Setup
❑ Select and install correct seed disks forcrop, popula-
tion and desired field speed.
See Seed Rate Manual for disk selection criteria.
See page 48 for disk installation.
If planting at a non-standard row spacing:
❑ Have blank seed disks (page 86) available for bal-
ancing meter pressureat unusedrows, andreducing
meter brush wear.
See page 50 for disk installation.
❑ Have seed tube plugs (page 50) available for block-
ing seed flow to unused rows.
29594
See page 49 for plug installation.
❑ If planting at a non-standard row spacing, have
lock-uppins (page 83)availablefor reducing wear on
unused rows.
See page 51 for row lock-up.
Marker Setup
Prior to first use, check and adjust:
•“Marker Speed Adjustment” on page 98.
Prior to first use, and whenever changing row spacings,
set or reset:
•“Marker Extension” on page 100.
Prior to each planting session, check and adjust:
•“Marker Chain Adjustment” on page 99
•“Marker Disk Adjustment” on page 34.
27226
26226
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Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index 19
Operating Instructions
This section covers general operating procedures. Experience, machine familiarity, and the following information
will lead to efficient operation and good working habits.
Always operate farm machinery with safety in mind.
Pre-Start Checklist
Perform the following steps before transporting the
3-Point drill to the field.
❑ Carefully read “Important Safety Information” on
page 1.
❑ Install seed disks appropriate for crop. See
“Air-Pro® Meter Disk Installation” on page 48.
❑ Lubricate drill as indicated under “Lubrication” on
page 77.
❑ Check all tires for proper inflation. See “Tire Infla-
tion Chart” on page 88.
❑ Check all bolts, pins, and fasteners. Torque as
shown in “Torque Values Chart” on page 90.
❑ Check drill for worn or damaged parts. Repair or
replace parts before going to the field.
❑ Rotate both gauge wheels to see that the drive and
meters are working properly and free from foreign
material.
❑ Check hydraulic hoses, fittings, and cylinders for
leaks. Repair or replace before going to the field.
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Relieve pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines. Use a
piece of paper or cardboard, NOT BODY PARTS, to check for
leaks. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles
when working with hydraulic systems. Escaping fluid under
pressure can have sufficient pressure to penetrate the skin
causing serious injury. If an accident occurs, seek immediate
medical assistance from a physician familiar with this type of
injury.
Drill Weight
You need to know the weight of your drill, for safe transport, and to assure optimal field operations.
The table below shows typical weights for various models and configurations, with and without seed loaded.
If the ratings for your tractor are marginal, have your drill
weighed at a scale.
Approximate¹ Weights of
Typical Drill Configurations
Empty Drill (standard)
Base Drill with Full Seed Load
Empty Drill (w/options²)
Optioned Drill, Full Seed Load
¹ Weight of your drill weight can vary by hundreds of pounds depending on installed features.
² With Dual Markers, Unit-Mount Coulters and full Weight Kits
2013-06-04 Table of Contents Index 118-999M
2025A 2525A 2525A
-12TR36, -16TR36, -16TR38, -20TR30
-12TR38 -16TR3815, -16TR40
5520 lbs. 7360 lbs. 8200 lbs.
8400 lbs. 10600 lbs. 11440 lbs.
7752 lbs. 9847 lbs. 10847 lbs.
10632 lbs. 13087 lbs. 14087 lbs.
20 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Transporting
Fortransporting with drillattached to ahitch, refer toyour
hitch operator’s manual.
Check Tractor Capacity and Configuration
3-point implements can dangerously reduce weight on
tractor steering wheels.
• Know the transport weight of your drill (see table on
previous page).
• Consult your tractor manual for 3-point limitations.
• Add weights to tractor as required.
When determining the weight of your drill, be sure to
include the weight of any seed loaded and row options.
Remove Extra Drill Weights
Remove weights from optional weight brackets. Move
weights to tractor as needed for ballasting.
Loss of Control Hazard:
Use a tractor rated for theload. Addtractor ballast as needed.
Do not exceed 20 mph. Towing the drill with a vehicle that is
not adequate, or at high speeds, could lead to loss of vehicle
control. Loss of vehicle can result in a serious road accident,
severe injury or death. Check that your tractor has enough to
handle the weight of the drill. Refer to your tractor’s operator
manual for capacities and ballast requirements.
Unload Seed Box
Unload seed box before transporting if at all possible.
See “Material Clean-Out” on page 66.
The drill can be transported with a full box of grain, but
the added weight will increase stopping distance and
decrease maneuverability.
To maintain steeringcontrol, you may need toadd ballast
to your tractor front end. Refer to your tractor operator’s
manual for ballast required.
Secure Markers
Always transport markers in the folded position and
marker hydraulic circuit(s) in neutral (to prevent unintended marker movement in cradles).
Transport Checklist
❑ Plan the route. Avoid steep hills.Keep Clearances in
mind.
❑ Hitch: Make all electrical and hydraulic connections.
See “Hitching Tractor to Drill” on page 13.
Refer to Figure 9
❑ Fold up walkboard ladders for maximum clearance.
❑ Fold markers. Lock circuit with Neutral setting.
See “Marker Operation (Option)” on page 28.
❑ Raise drill.
❑ Close all seed inlet shutters if transporting with seed.
❑ Always have lights on for highway operation.
❑ Comply with all federal, state and local safety laws
when traveling on public roads.
❑ Travel with caution. Allow safe clearance.
Remember that the drill is wider than the tractor.
Figure 9
Walkboard Ladder for Transport
28828
118-999M Table of Contents Index 2013-06-04
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 21
Loading Seed
Watch your step when walking on drill ladder and walkboard. Falling from drill could cause severe injury or
death.
Great Plains recommends loadingmaterials afterthe drill
has been transported to the planting ground.
Seed is heavy.
Pre-loading substantially increases transport hazards:
• Stopping distance increases.
• The center of gravity moves aft:
Tractor steering wheels have less weight on them,
reducing steering effectiveness.
• Turning hazards increase:
Even with effective steering, turns are more difficult to
initiate and more difficult to stop, due to the inertia of
the wide load.
To load materials:
1. Load only in dry conditions.
2. If the seed is treated, wear protective equipment rec-
ommended for the hazards.
3. If loading seed prior to transport, close all seed inlet
shutters (page 46).
4. Lower the drill.
Refer to Figure 10
5. Fold down the ladders.
6. Open the lids for the boxes. Handle is also a latch,
pull out and up to release.
7. Remove any debris or obstructions from the boxes.
8. If planting at a non-standard row spacing, insert
seed plugs in unused rows (page_page 50).
9. Load seed.
Agricultural Chemical Hazard:
Follow seed supplier and chemical manufacturer instructions
for treated seed. Avoid contact with skin or eyes. Avoid breathing dust or fumes - use a respirator. Know what to do if an
accident occurs.
Equipment Damage/Population Risk:
Do not use liquid seed treatments. Pre-treat and dry seed
before loading. Excessively sticky seed does not meter reliably.
Population Risk:
Seed lubricant is required. All seed must be mixed with Ezee
Glide Plus seed lubricant. See page 80.
WARNING
To avoid serious injury or death:
Watch your step when climbing ladder or
walking on walkboard.
838-102C
Mix seed lubricant as you load (page 80).
Load or spread seedevenlyacross all partitions.Use
a tool or gloved hand.
10. Make a note of the quantity loaded, for later confir-
mation of population or application density desired.
Note also the acremeter reading.
11. Close and latch the box lids.
12. Raise the ladders (page 27).
Figure 10
Walkboard Ladder for Loading
28828
Before the firstplanting each season, orwhen using new
meters or meter wheels for thefirst time, orat the start of
each season, before filling with seed, add
<numerator>1⁄<denominator>3 cup Ezee Glide Plus
seed lubricant to bottom of seed box.
2013-06-04 Table of Contents Index 118-999M
22 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Air System Operation
15
14
3
2
1
5
6
7
8
13
4
Figure 11
Drill Air System for Air-Pro® Seed Metering
29823
29825
Manifold Pressure System Elements ( shows air direction)
1 6 11
Hydraulic Fan Sliding Seed Tubes Seed Tube (Figure 12)
2 7 12
Butterfly Valve Air-Pro® Seed Meter Sensor Port (Figure 12)
3 8 13
Manifold Pressure Air Seed Inlet Shutter Pressure Sensor Lines
4 9 14
Row Pressurizing Tube Seed Pool (Figure 12) Pressure Sensor Chamber
5 10 15
Seed Box Disk Seed Pocket (Cell) Magnehelic® Pressure Gauge
118-999M Table of Contents Index 2013-06-04
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 23
Air and Seeding System Overview
Refer to Figure 11, on page 22, and Figure 12.
The hydraulic fan supplies air exclusively for meter
1
operation. Fan rpm is operator-adjusted (page 25), normally via the tractor circuit’s hydraulic flow control.
A manually-adjusted butterfly valve is providedat the
2
fan outlet. See page 25 for valve adjustment.
The manifold system delivers fan air across thedrill.It
3
includes passive internal design features to balance
pressure across the drill.
Separate pressurization tubes route manifold air to
4
each row unit.
Seed is delivered from the seed box by gravity
through the sliding seed tubes , to the inlet of the
Air-Pro® seed meter .
7
A manually adjusted inlet shutter controls the size of
the seed pool at the base of the meter. The shutter
9
5
6
8
also minimizes air loss back up the seed inlet tube, and
is also used during row shut off. See page 46 for shutter
adjustments.
At the meter, pressurization air exits the meter through
the seed pockets of the disk, and holds seed in the
pockets until released above the seed tube .
Several rows have a pressure sensor port for the
meter pressure system. A line from each of these
rows is connected to a chamber to average the pres-
10
11
12
13
14
sures.
The averaged pressure is reported by a Magnehelic®
gauge visible to the tractor operator. See page 35 for
15
use of the gauge in making fan adjustments.
If the optional seed monitor system is installed, a sensor
in each seed tube (not shown) reports seed passage.
Larger seeds are countedindividually.For smaller seeds,
the system acts as a blockage monitor.
10
8
Use ofthe specialblank disk (page 50),and closingthe
seed inlet shutter (page 46), are particularly important
when a sensor row is shut off.
On any row, running a normal diskwith noseed, or with
an open empty inlet, unbalances the air system. Doing
either at a sensor row causes the gauge to mis-report
as well.
7
12
9
Figure 12
Air-Pro® Meter, Disk Side
4
11
29825
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24 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Fan Circuit Operation See also “Fan and Adjustment” on page 35.
Refer to Figure 13
Three hydraulic hoses serve the fan, and must be properly connected for the fan to operate in the correct
direction , at recommended speeds, and without dam-
1
age. See “Hydraulic Hose Hookup” on page 14.
1. Always connect the case drain line first.
2
5
This line protectsthe outer shaft seal ofthe hydraulic
motor.The casedrain is a small line to the hitch, provisioned with a specialized low-seep flat-face case
drain Quick Disconnect. Pressure spikes during
motor operation, and pressure cycles due to temper-
1
ature change are bled off by the case drain.
Motor Seal Damage Hazard
Do not apply pressure to thecase drain line. Do not changethe
special QD connector. A restricted or sealed case drain line
will promptly result in motor seal damage.
2. Connect the motor return line second, to sump.
The drill includes a 1<numerator>1⁄<denomina-
tor>16in low back-pressure QD coupler set. Install
the receptacle on a tractor sump port, and not at a
normal remote return port. The unusual size aids in
3
3
4
2
Figure 13
Hydraulics at Fan
29781
ensuring correct connection,so that themotor return
line handles high volume at low back-pressure,
ensuring full motor performance.
3. Connect the motor inlet line to a tractor remote
capable of 4.5 gallons/minute. If a priority remote is
available, use it for the fan.
4. The fan hydraulic circuit includes a check valve ,
which provides a relief path for oil at motor shutoff.
If the fan is connected in reverse, flow through this
4
If the fan is connected in reverse, it may not run at all
(due to no oil source at the return connection). If oil is
present, oil bypass at the check valve prevents the
5
fan from reaching high rpm. A reversed fan may send
5
some airto themeters, but is incapable of providing reliable air flow for planting.
valve results in low fan rpm provides strong indication reversed connection.
Correct fan directionis shown at . If reversed fan is
1
suspected, observeit during shutoff, as the direction
of motion iseasier to see at lower rpms as it slows to
a stop (initial startup is virtually instantaneous, making observation at start difficult).
Fan speed is controlled by the tractor circuit and butterfly
valve (and not the seed monitor).
You may stop the fan by setting the circuit to neutral or
Fan speed can change as oil heats to operating temperature. Re-check meter pressure more oftenduring early
operations.
float. The check valve slows the blades to a stop by
locally recirculating the oil.
118-999M Table of Contents Index 2013-06-04
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 25
l
r
f
r
d
d
Fan General Operating Information
Adjust the fan to provide the meter pressure recommended for the seed disk, seed, and seed density. See
the tables and charts for recommended values in the
Seed Rate Manual.
Normal gauge readings are in the 0.8in to 4.0in water
pressure range, and vary considerably with crop.
Refer to Figure 14
Use tractor remote hydraulic valve flow control to set fan
speed and butterfly valve adjustment to make fineadjustments tometer pressure. Precise technique depends on
tractor capabilities:
• The objective isobtain recommended meter pressure,
and maintain it during end-of-pass marker fold,lift and
turn.
• For any setup adjustment, operate the tractor engine
at typical field rpms, and not at idle.
• Preset the butterfly valve:
If the tractor has fine control of remote flow rates, and
consistent flow at varying tractor engine rpm, initially
set the butterfly valve to 30° or less.
If the tractorhas onlycoarse controlof flow,initially set
the butterfly valve to 45°.
• Set the fan circuit flow to bring the gauge reading to
near the recommended value.
• Fine tune the meter pressure with the butterfly valve.
• If the tractor has marginal flow available, or the list circuit has priority, you may need to experiment with
combinations of fan flow and butterfly valve settings.
Always start the fan with a low flow setting.
Gradually bring fan up to the recommended initial meter
pressure.
At excessive rpm, too much air flow can cause:
• oil heating
• slow lift times
If desired pressure cannot be reached, or require unusually high oil flow at low butterfly valve settings, chances
are the fan is running backwards. Reverse the
inlet/return lines at the hitch.
Butterfly Valve Operation:
To adjust, loosen bolt and rotate the handle .
Re-tighten bolt.
0° is wide open - maximum air flow.
90° is closed - minimum air flow.
The valve provides the most effect at settings between
20° and 70°.
Starting at 30° reduces the fan workload.
Starting at45° provides themost adjustment rangeup or
down.
Low Population Risk at Turns:
The fan requires up to 4.5 gpm. This figure does not include oi
for lift/lower or oil for marker operation. Aggressive lift/lowe
operations, and simultaneous lift/marker operations, can
reduce fan rpm below that needed to pressurize meter disks. I
seed falls out of pockets, low population bands will occu
shortly after turns.
Unless the tractor has generous oil flow capacity, raise/fol
markers before lift, and lift slowly. Watch meter pressure an
tune operations to keep it at planting levels in turns.
1
20°
2
45°
Figure 14
Fan Butterfly Valve Handle
1 2
70°
25137
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26 2025A/2525A Table of Contents Index Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.
Acremeter Operation
Refer to Figure 15
The acremeter counts shaft rotations whenever the shaft
is rotating - this is with the drill lowered and in motion or
during crank operation. The meter is programmed to display rotations as acres or hectares, when using all rows,
factory-specified tires and tire inflations.
Note: Unusual conditions and/or non-standard row
spacings can cause the acremeter tally to vary
from actual acres planted.
Normal Operating Sequence
1. Record the acremeter reading atthe start of planting
(and after calibration). The large “12345.6” format
display is the grand total area planted since meter
installation. If the display is blank, see “Dormant Display” below.
2. Lower drill and plant. Acremeter counts shaft rotations, calculates acres or hectares, and adds to the
running grand total.
3. During planting (drill lowered and moving forward),
the display blanks (goes dormant), but areatally continues.
4. When raised for turns, obstructions and transport,
the drive wheel stops, and the meter counts no additional (non-planting) rotations.
5. Whenever shaft rotation stops, the LCD display activates after 30 to 60 seconds,and remains visible for
30 to 45 minutes.
6. At the completion ofplanting, record the finalreading
or the grand total. Ifthe display goes dormant before
you can read it, see “Dormant Display”.
7. Subtract the reading at Step 1 from the reading at
Step 6 for the total planted in the present session.
Figure 15
Electronic Acremeter
27378
Dormant Display
Refer to Figure 16
To conserve power, the LCDdisplay blanks itself most of
the time. If you need to read the display after it has
“timed out” and gone dormant:
• use the left gauge wheel to turn the meter shaft once,
or
• gently tap or wave a magnet at either of the Great
Plains logo spotson thelower region of thedisplay. Be
careful not to scratch the window.
When active the lowerleft corner displays the revolutions
per area for which the meter is factory-programmed.
118-999M Table of Contents Index 2013-06-04
Acremeter Programming
Drill Units
2025A Acres 891-087C 316.2 REVS/ACRE
2025A Hectare 891-088C 781.3 REVS/HA
2525A Acres 891-101C 245.0 REVS/ACRE
2525A Hectare 891-102C 605.4 REVS/HA
891-101C Meter Display
1
Figure 16
Part No. Program
29827
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