Page 1
Table of Contents Index
25050
Operator Manual
3-Point 40-Foot Yield-Pro
3PYP
®
Planter
Manufacturing, Inc.
www.greatplainsmfg.com
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!
Illustrations may show optional equipment not supplied with standard unit or
may depict similar models where a topic is identical.
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
© Copyright 2018 Printed 2018-07-24 401-312M
Table of Contents Index
EN
Page 2
Machine Identification
Record your machine details in the log below. If you replace this manual, be sure to transfer this information to the new
manual.
If you or the dealer have added options not originally ordered with the machine, or removed options that were originally
ordered, the weights and measurements are no longer accurate for your machine. Update the record by adding the
machine weight and measurements with the option(s) weight and measurements.
Model Number
Serial Number
Machine Height
Machine Length
Machine Width
Machine Weight
Year of Construction
Delivery Date
First Operation
Accessories
Dealer Contact Information
Name:
Street:
City/State:
Telephone:
Email:
Dealer’s Customer
No.:
WARNING:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Page 3
3PYP Cover Index iii
Table of Contents
Important Safety Information.................................................1
Introduction...........................................................................10
Description of Unit ...........................................................10
Intended Usage ........................................................10
Document Family .....................................................10
Covered Models ..............................................................10
Using This Manual...........................................................10
Definitions.................................................................10
Owner Assistance............................................................11
Further Assistance...........................................................11
Preparation and Setup .........................................................12
Initial Setup......................................................................12
Pre-Setup Checklist.........................................................12
Hitching Tractor to Planter...............................................13
3-Point Hitching ........................................................13
Electrical Hookup.............................................................15
Hydraulic Hose Hookup...................................................16
Protecting Hydraulic Motor Seals.............................17
Frame Height and Leveling .............................................18
Raise Parking Stands ......................................................19
Marker Extension.............................................................20
Operating Instructions .........................................................21
Pre-Start Checklist...........................................................21
Monitor Operation............................................................22
Raising/Lowering Planter.................................................22
Folding the 3PYP.............................................................23
Locking Pins ....................................................................24
Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up .....................................26
Transport the 3PYP to the field. ......................................26
Steering ....................................................................27
Unfolding The 3PYP ........................................................28
Electric Clutch Operation.................................................30
Electric Clutch Lock-Up ............................................30
Marker Operation.............................................................33
Marker Tilt-Up...........................................................34
Marker Unfold (one side)..........................................34
Row Marker Operation .............................................34
Folding The Markers ................................................34
Marker Tilt-Down ......................................................34
Unusual Marker Operations .....................................34
Airbox Operation..............................................................35
Fan Operation ..........................................................35
Y-Tubes ...........................................................................35
82 Bu.Hopper Operation..................................................36
Adding Seed to 82 bu. Hopper.................................36
Changing the Seed Box or 82 Bu. Hopper ...................... 37
Steering with Control Monitor ..........................................39
Steering System Selection .......................................39
Steering Calibration..................................................39
Advanced Setup.......................................................40
Diagnostics...............................................................40
Steering with Module Control ..........................................41
Steering Configuration Switch..................................42
Field Set-Up Checklist.....................................................43
Field Operation................................................................45
Planting ...........................................................................45
Checking Planting Rate...................................................45
Short-Term Parking.........................................................46
Long-Term Storage .........................................................47
Adjustments..........................................................................48
Setting Seed Rate ...........................................................49
Indexing....................................................................49
Gauge Wheel Sprocket Selection ............................49
Drive Range Sprockets ............................................50
Upper Drive Sprocket...............................................51
Transmission Sprockets...........................................51
Transmission Adjustments.......................................52
Gauge Wheel Adjustments..............................................52
Gauge Wheel Tension .............................................53
Contact Drive Adjustments.......................................53
Hydraulic Down Pressure................................................54
Cart Weight Transfer................................................55
Priority Flow Hydraulic Systems...............................55
Marker Adjustments ........................................................56
Marker Disk Adjustment ...........................................56
Height Switch Adjustment ...............................................57
Fan Adjustments .............................................................58
Fertilizer Setup ................................................................59
Liquid Fertilizer Strainer ...........................................59
Fertilizer Orifice Plates.............................................60
Fertilizer Row Shut-Off.............................................60
Fertilizer Relief Valve ...............................................61
25 Series Row Units.......................................................62
Row Unit Down Pressure .........................................63
Adjusting Down-Pressure.........................................64
Row Unit Shut-Off ....................................................65
Row Unit Lock-Up ....................................................66
Unit-Mount Cleaner Adjustments .............................67
Coulter Adjustments.................................................68
Row-Unit Opener Adjustments.................................69
© Copyright 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 All rights Reserved
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. provides this publication “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. While every precaution has been
taken in the preparation of this manual, Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. reserves the right to 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.
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, Turbo-Max, Turbo-Till, Ultra-Till, Whirlfilter, and Yield-Pro.
Trademarks of Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. include: AccuShot, Max-Chisel, Row-Pro,
Singulator Plus, Short Disk, Swath Command, Terra-Tine, Ultra-Chisel, and X-Press.
Brand and Product Names that appear and are owned by others are trademarks of their respective owners.
Printed in the United States of America
2018-07-24 Cover Index 401-312M
Page 4
3PYP Cover Index iv
Setting Planting Depth..............................................69
Disk Angle and Side Depth Wheels .........................69
Adjusting Disk Angle & Side Depth Wheels .............70
Row-Unit Opener Disk Adjustments.........................71
Opener Disc Contact Region....................................71
Adjusting Disc Contact .............................................71
Adjusting Depth Wheel Scrapers .............................72
Seed Meter Setup and Adjustment ..........................72
Meter Removal .........................................................72
Singulator Plus™ Meter Wheel Replacement ..........74
Meter Installation ......................................................75
Finger Meter Adjustments ........................................76
Finger Meter Brush Adjustment................................76
Finger Meter Inserts .................................................77
Sunflower Meter Configurations ...............................77
Sprocket Indexing (Stagger).....................................78
Seed Firmer Adjustments.........................................78
®
Keeton
Seed Firmer Adjustment ............................78
Seed-Lok® Seed Firmer Lock-Up.............................78
Press Wheel Adjustment ..........................................79
Press Wheel Down Pressure ...................................80
Press Wheel Stagger ...............................................80
Press Wheel Centering ............................................80
Press Wheel Assembly with Cast Wheels................81
Troubleshooting ...................................................................82
General Troubleshooting .................................................82
Airbox Troubleshooting....................................................85
Steering Error Flash Codes.............................................85
Maintenance and Lubrication..............................................87
Maintenance ....................................................................87
Seed Clean-Out...............................................................88
Cleaning Out Air System..........................................88
Cleaning Out Meters ................................................88
Air Box Residue Clean-Out .............................................89
Marker Maintenance........................................................90
Marker Shear Bolt Replacement ..............................90
Marker Chain Length Adjustment.............................90
Dual Marker Speed Adjustment ...............................91
Hitch Shims .....................................................................91
Chain Maintenance ..................................................92
Chain Slack ..............................................................92
Meter Drive Chain ....................................................92
Meter Maintenance..........................................................93
Finger Pickup Meter Maintenance............................93
Finger Set Inspection ...............................................93
Finger Meter Re-Assembly Steps ............................93
Precautions ..............................................................93
Population Max™ Annual Maintenance. ..................94
Population Max™ Installation...................................94
Skip Stop™ Annual Maintenance.............................95
Skip Stop™ Installation ............................................95
Exchanging Finger Sets ...........................................96
Install Corn Finger Set..............................................99
25 Series Disk Spreaders and Scrapers ................100
25 Series Row-Unit Side Wheels ...........................100
Hydraulic Filter .......................................................101
Replacing Hydraulic Filter ......................................101
Bleeding Hydraulics.......................................................102
Bleeding Lift Hydraulics..........................................102
Bleeding Fold Cylinder Hydraulics.........................102
Bleeding Marker Hydraulics ...................................102
Bleeding Lift Hydraulics..........................................103
Bleeding Marker Fold Hydraulics ...........................107
Seed Flap Replacement (s/n A1055S-).........................108
Seed Flap Replacement (s/n A1056S+)........................108
Lubrication.....................................................................109
Seed Lubricants ............................................................116
Options................................................................................117
Planter Options..............................................................117
Row Unit Options ..........................................................121
Appendix A: Reference Information .................................126
Specifications and Capacities .......................................126
Tire Inflation Chart.........................................................126
Torque Values Chart .....................................................127
Hydraulic Diagrams .......................................................128
Chain Routing................................................................137
Row Unit Placement......................................................141
Appendix B - Option Installation.......................................147
Appendix C: Initial Setup...................................................148
Post-Delivery Checklist .................................................148
Seed Monitor Console Installation.................................148
Radar Calibration ...................................................149
Install Tractor Steering Components.............................149
Compatible Tractors...............................................149
Steering with Control Monitor ........................................150
Steering with Control Module ........................................152
Steering Setup .......................................................152
Steering System Hydraulic Bleeding......................153
Steering System Modes of Operation ....................153
Steering Calibration................................................153
Steering Configuration Switch................................153
Wheel Sensor Calibration ......................................154
Emergency Moves Without Steering......................156
Force Caster Float .................................................156
Hydraulic Down Pressure Calibration...........................157
PC Closed Down Pressure ....................................157
LS Closed/PFC Down Pressure.............................158
Center Section Leveling ................................................159
Wing Leveling................................................................159
Appendix D: Older Equipment ..........................................160
Hitching with Row Mode Spacer ...................................160
Hydraulic Down Pressure Calibration............................161
PC Closed Down Pressure ....................................161
PC Closed Down Pressure (S/N A1006S-) ............162
PC Closed Down Pressure (S/N A1025S+) ...........162
LS Closed/PFC Down Pressure.............................163
LS Closed/PFC Down Pressure (S/N A1025S+) ...164
A1006S- Hydraulic Bleeding .........................................165
A1006S-, A1007S-A1024S Lift System.........................167
Appendix R - Row-Pro™....................................................170
Row-Pro™ Troubleshooting..........................................177
Warranty........................................................................178
2018-07-24 Cover Index 401-312M
Page 5
3PYP 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 result in death or serious injury.
This signal word is limited to the most 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,
thoroughly.
Read all instructions noted on the decals.
Keep decals clean. Replace damaged, faded and illegible
decals.
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Page 6
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 2
Wear Protective Equipment
Wear protective clothing and equipment.
Wear clothing and equipment appropriate for the job.
Avoid loose-fitting clothing.
Because prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause
hearing 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.
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.
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
chemical manufacturer.
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.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 7
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 3
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.
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.
Use flashing warning lights and turn signals whenever
driving on public roads.
Use lights and devices provided with implement
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 of steering and stopping.
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 planter 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 126.
Do not fold or unfold the planter while the tractor is
moving
Shutdown and Storage
Lower planter, put tractor in park, turn off engine, and
remove the key.
Secure planter using blocks and supports provided.
Detach and store planter in an area where children
normally do not play.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 8
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 4
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 planter, 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 planter to cool completely.
Disconnect battery ground cable (-) before servicing or
adjusting electrical systems or before welding on planter.
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 planter before
operation.
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 planter functions.
Operate machinery from the driver’s seat only.
Do not leave planter unattended with tractor engine
running.
Do not dismount a moving tractor. Dismounting a moving
tractor could cause serious injury or death.
Do not stand between the tractor and planter during
hitching.
Keep hands, feet and clothing away from power-driven
parts.
Wear snug-fitting clothing to avoid entanglement with
moving parts.
Watch out for wires, trees, etc., when folding and raising
planter. Make sure all persons are clear of working area.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 9
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 5
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.
25051
25051
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
corresponding safety decals.
Slow Moving Vehicle Reflector
818-055C
On the back of the planter walkboard;
one total
Red Reflectors
838-266C
On the back of seed box support structure each end
(above wheels) and on the back of the wing tool bars,
each end, two each side:
four total
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 10
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 6
25051
25051
25051
25051
848-512C
WARNING:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Amber Reflectors
838-265C
On the front of tool bar, at each end and near wing
separation point;
four total.
Daytime Reflectors
838-267C
On the back of seed box support structure each end
(above wheels) and on the back of the wing tool bars,
each end and near separation;
six total.
Danger: Crushing Hazard
818-590C
On tool bar inboard of parking stand,
each side, two total
Danger: Read Manual
848-512C
On tongue at hitch;
1 total
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 11
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 7
25051
To prevent serious injury or death:
Stay away from power lines when
transporting, extending or folding
implement.
Electrocution can occur without
contacting power lines.
838-599C
ELECTROCUTION HAZARD
DANGER
25051
25051
25051
Warning: Electrocution Hazard
838-599C
On marker section each end;
two total
Warning: High Pressure Fluid Hazard
818-339C
On on each end of center tool bar, and front of center
section;
three total
Warning: Moving Parts
818-860C
On tool bar inboard of gauge wheel each side,
two total
Warning: Overhead Hazard
818-580C
On marker section each end;
two total
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 12
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 8
25051
25051
25051
25051
WARNING:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Read Owner’s Manual before using machine.
Stand clear when folding and unfolding markers.
Stand clear when raising and lowering machine.
Keep all safety shields and devices in place.
Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from
Never ride on machine.
Always lower or properly support machine
Escaping hydraulic fluid can cause serious
Review safety instructions with all operators
moving chains and sprockets.
BEFORE servicing.
818-587C Rev. B
injury.
annually.
CAUTION
Warning: Pinch/Crush
818-045C
On marker base, inside face, each end,
On wing arm link, each side
On wing rest, each side;
six total
Warning: Pinch/Shear Hazard
818-579C
Front face of marker base bracket;
two total
Warning: Speed
818-188C
WARNING
EXCESSIVE SPEED HAZARD
To Prevent Serious Injury or Death:
Do Not exceed 20 mph maximum transport
speed. Loss of vehicle control and/or machine
can result.
On front of center section;
one total
Caution: Read Operator’s Manual
818-078C
818-188C Rev. C
On center tool bar;
one total
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 13
3PYP Table of Contents Index Important Safety Information 9
25051
Caution: Tires Not A Step
818-398C
Above all four tires;
four (4) total
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 14
3PYP Table of Contents Index 10
Figure 1
3PYP Planter
29192
Figure 2
Right / Left
25050
R
L
Introduction
Great Plains welcomes you to its growing family of new
product owners. The 3-Point 40-Foot Yield-Pro
(3PYP) has 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.
®
Planter
Description of Unit
The 3PYP is a semi-mounted implement for use in
conventional till, minimum-till, or light no-till conditions.
The 3PYP accepts optional unit mounted coulters. The
unit mounted coulters make it suitable for light to
moderate no-till conditions only. The 3PYP is outfitted
with 25 Series, side-depth-control row-units. The 3PYP
stack-folds for transport.
Intended Usage
Use the 3PYP to seed production-agriculture crops only.
Do not modify the planter for use with attachments other
than Great Plains options and accessories specified for
use with the 3PYP.
This manual covers all vintages of 3PYP planters
(does not include model 3PYPA with Air-Pro
meters). Not all illustrations and photographs
represent the most recent products.
Document Family
401-312M Operator Manual (this document)
401-312B Seed Rate Charts
401-312P Parts Manual
401-312Q Pre-Delivery Manual
110011425 Quick-Start Guide, 24 twin row
110011427 Quick-Start Guide, 32 twin row
110011468 Quick-Start Guide, 16-row
110011469 Quick-Start Guide, 12-row
110011375
IIntelliAg
®
Operator manual
Covered Models
3PYP-1236 12 Row, 36-Inch Spacing
3PYP-1238 12 Row, 38-Inch Spacing
3PYP-1240 12 Row, 40-Inch Spacing
3PYP-1630 16 Row, 30-Inch Spacing
3PYP-2320 23 Row, 20-Inch Spacing
3PYP-24TR36 24 Row (12 Twin), 36-Inch Spacing
3PYP-24TR38 24 Row (12 Twin), 38-Inch Spacing
3PYP-24TR40 24 Row (12 Twin), 40-Inch Spacing
3PYP-3115 31 Row, 15-Inch Spacing
3PYP-32TR30 32 Row (16 Twin), 30-Inch Spacing
®
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.
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.
A crucial point of information related to the preceding topic.
Read and follow the directions to remain safe, avoid serious
damage to equipment and ensure desired field results.
Useful information related to the preceding topic.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 15
3PYP Table of Contents Index Introduction 11
Figure 3
Serial Number Plate
29189
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 3
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 front face of the left wing rest near
machine center.
Record your 3PYP 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 or are not satisfied with the service received,
please take the following actions.
1. Discuss the matter with your dealership service
manager. Make sure they are aware of any problems
so they can assist you.
2. If you are still unsatisfied, seek out the owner or
general manager of the dealership.
Further Assistance
Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. and your Great Plains
dealer want you to be satisfied with your new 3PYP. If for
any reason you do not understand any part of this
manual or are otherwise dissatisfied, please take the
following actions first:
1. Discuss the matter with your dealership service
manager. Make sure they are aware of any problems
so they can assist you.
2. If you are still unsatisfied, seek out the owner or
general manager of the dealership.
If your dealer is unable to resolve the problem or the
issue is parts related, please contact:
Great Plains Service Department
1525 E. North St.
P.O. Box 5060
Salina, KS 67402-5060
Or go to www.greatplainsag.com and follow the contact
information at the bottom of your screen for our service
department.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
Page 16
3PYP Table of Contents Index 12
Preparation and Setup
This section helps you prepare your tractor and 3PYP for
use, and covers tasks that need to be done only once per
hitch, seasonally, or when the tractor/planter
configuration changes.
Before using the 3PYP in the field, you must hitch the
planter to a suitable tractor, inspect systems, level the
planter. Before using the planter for the first time, and
periodically thereafter, certain adjustments and
calibrations are required.
Initial Setup
Prior to first use, and if the tractor changes, these items
need to be completed:
• Install tractor cab consoles (page 148).
• Set initial down-pressure (option, page 157).
• Check center section and wing level (page 159).
• Install Options not factory- or dealer-installed.
Pre-Setup Checklist
1. Read and understand “Important Safety
Information” on page 1.
2. Check that all working parts are moving freely, bolts
are tight, and cotter pins are spread.
3. Check that all grease fittings are in place and
lubricated. Refer to “Lubrication” on page 109.
4. Check that all safety decals and reflectors are
correctly located and legible. Replace if damaged.
See “Safety Decals” on page 5.
5. Inflate tires to pressure recommended and tighten
wheel bolts as specified. See “Tire Inflation Chart”
on page 126.
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Page 17
3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 13
Figure 4
Hitch Spacers
29861
14
1
2
11
U
D
F
B
L
R
13
3
1
1
1211
123113
1
2
1131
Hitching Tractor to Planter
Crushing Hazard:
Do not stand or place any body part between planter and
moving 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.
3-Point Hitching
Refer to Figure 4
For older planters with row mode spacers, see “Hitching
with Row Mode Spacer” on page 160.
The left arm of the tractor 3-point hitch is secured and
prevented from shifting laterally. The right arm is
allowed to float on the pin.
The objective is to align the planter center-line with the
tractor center-line.
1. The planter includes several spacers to position and
secure the left arm of the 3-point hitch:
1 401-630H SPACER 3 PT 1 1/2 X 2
2 411-442D LOWER 3PT PIN SPACER 1/2 THK
5 411-448D LOWER 3PT PIN SPACER 1/4 THK
1 411-449D TUBE 3" X 1 1/2" X 1/2" LONG
2. The tube spacers ( and ) are always used, and
are typically positioned on the right and left of the
tractor hitch arm.
3. Insert open-end spacers ( and ) to the left of
the smaller tube spacer to achieve center-line
alignment. The following table has recommendations
for specific tractors.
4. Add a combination of the remaining spacers to
5. Secure both sets of spacers with the provided
Tractor
Model
Case IH
Magnum™/MX
John Deere 8000 to Left None
eliminate any slack space on the pin, and minimize
side-to-side play during operations.
bolts, lock washers and nuts.
®
Tube
to Left 1 to Left
Spacers
1
/2 in
1
/2-13
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 14
Excess 3-point weight and steering hazard:
Do not use the top-link and weight-transfer capabilities at the
same time. Planter caster wheels may lift off ground. Tractor
steering wheels may lose effectiveness. An accident is possible,
resulting in serious injury or death, and planter damage.
Figure 5
Hitching Planter
(Top Link Not In Use)
29211
2
3
4
2
356
Figure 6
Rod-End Lug Parallel Arm Lug
29201
5
6
653
4
Refer to Figure 5
6. Connect your lower tractor 3-point arms to the
planter 3-point hitch. If using quick hitch be sure
planter locks into hitch securely.
This is a semi-mounted implement.
• Older models have no top link .
• 2007+ models have a flexible top link which may be
used, with care, in certain situations.
• If the top link is not used, you may optionally use
lift-assist weight transfer to apply some of the cart
weight to the openers during planting.
Refer to Figure 6
If using lift-assist weight-transfer (and not using the
3-point top link), make sure the parallel arms are
configured as follows:
7. Install the lift-assist weight-transfer pins . The pins
are stored in a plate behind the cart parallel arm
pivot weldment. Install them in the large holes at the
bottom of the rod-end lug in the frame-to-cart parallel
arms.
8. Remove the lift-assist shear bolts from the small
holes below the lift-assist rod-end lug upper pivot
pin. Store the bolts in the plates behind the cart
parallel arm pivot weldments.
If using the 3-point top link, make sure the parallel arms
are configured as follows:
9. Install the lift-assist shear bolts. Spare bolts are
stored in a plate behind the cart parallel arm pivot
weldment. Secure the bolt in the small hole below
the lift-assist rod-end lug upper pivot pin.
10. Remove the lift-assist weight-transfer pins . These
are located at the bottom of the rod-end lug in the
frame-to-cart parallel arms. The pin is stored in a
plate behind the cart parallel arm pivot weldment.
Refer to Figure 5
11. Connect the flexible top link only for field
operations and maintenance (never for transport).
Adjust the top link with the tractor turnbuckle and the
sliding link .
For field operations, adjust the top link so that it is
slack with the planter lowered, and taut near the top
of hitch travel with the planter raised. The goal is to
reduce the weight borne by the rear lift assist
cylinders, and reduce any tendency for the tires to
dig on end-of-pass turns and during backing.
12. Raise tractor 3-point just enough to relieve pressure
from the bases of the parking stands.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 15
1
2
3
1
23456
Electrical Hookup
Refer to Figure 7
Your 3PYP is equipped with several standard and
optional devices that require separate electrical
connections. For future reference, note any optional
connections on this checklist.
4 Lights
4
4 Steering ECU
? ___________________________
? ___________________________
? ___________________________
DICKEY-john
®
Planter Control
Make sure tractor is shut down with accessory power off
before making connections.
These connections may be made in any order. The key
requirement is that all connections be made prior to
planter movement.
Switch control boxes should be mounted in your
tractor cab in a location with easy access. Route
wiring harnesses with enough slack to allow for tractor
movement, especially on articulating tractors.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 16
Figure 8
Color Coded Hose Handles
31733
Hydraulic Hose Hookup
Only trained personnel should work on system hydraulics!
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient pressure to
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
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.
Refer to Figure 8
Great Plains hydraulic hoses are color coded handle
grips to help you hookup hoses to your tractor outlets.
Hoses that go to the same remote valve are marked with
the same color.
Current Style Color Coded Hose Handles
Color Hydraulic Function
Steering (no color code)
Black Fan
Green Wing Fold / Marker Tilt/Fold
Blue Lift / Down Pressure
Yellow Hydraulic Drive
To distinguish hoses on the same hydraulic circuit, refer
to the symbol molded into the handle grip. Hoses with an
extended-cylinder symbol feed cylinder base ends.
Hoses with a retracted-cylinder symbol feed cylinder rod
ends.
For hydraulic fan and drive motors, 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.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 17
Motor Seal 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.
Case drain hose must be hooked up first and unhooked
last to prevent damage to hydraulic motor seals.
Hydraulic Motor Performance Risk:
DO NOT connect the case drain line to a
power-beyond-port.
Figure 9
Older Style Hoses with Label
817-348c
17641
Older Style Hoses with Color Ties
Refer to Figure 9
Great Plains hydraulic hoses 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
tie.
Color Hydraulic Function
Steering (no color code)
Orange Fan
White Wing Fold / Marker Tilt/Fold
Blue Lift / Down Pressure
Yellow Hydraulic Drive
To distinguish hoses on the same hydraulic circuit, refer
to plastic 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 hydraulic fan and drive motors, 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.
Protecting Hydraulic Motor Seals
Low Pressure (Case) Drain Connection
1. Attach case drain hose to low pressure drain
connection.
2. Connect low pressure return hose to low pressure
return connector.
3. Connect hydraulic hoses to tractor remotes.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 18
Older planters with rephasing cylinders need to have
the cylinder rephrased as the first step. See
page 167.
Level frame in planting conditions.
Failure to do so may result in machinery not
producing desired results.
Figure 10
Setting Hitch/Center Height
25435
Figure 11
Leveling on Beds
29193
Frame Height and Leveling
All frame sections must be at the correct height and level
to maintain even planting depth.
Periodic frame-leveling adjustments should not be
necessary unless the depth control stop has changed
since last leveling. If you are having problems with
uneven depth, check planter levelness and follow these
procedures.
1. Complete the steps under “Bleeding Hydraulics” on
page 102, before proceeding.
2. Before first use, and as necessary thereafter,
complete or check:
“Center Section Leveling” on page 159,
“Wing Leveling” on page 159, and
“Hydraulic Down Pressure Calibration” on
page 161.
3. Unfold the planter fully. See “Unfolding The 3PYP”
on page 28.
Set Initial Planter Height
The planter is designed to operate with the main tool bar
26 inches (66 cm) above the planting surface (level
ground or bed peaks).
Tractor 3-point control must be in Depth Control
mode, and not Draft Control mode.
When lowering the planter for the first time on the
planting ground:
4. Completely lower the 3-point.
5. Completely lower the Lift Assist. If necessary, first
raise lift off transport locks, remove and stow locks.
6. Raise the 3-point until the tool bar is 26 inches above
the planting surface.
7. Set the cab 3-point lever stop to capture this
“lowered” height.
On beds, it will further be necessary to use
customer-supplied blocks to raise the down-stop position
of the lift assist cylinders. One way to accomplish this is:
Refer to Figure 11
8. Place a carpenter’s level on a side tube of the center
frame (pointed to in Figure 11). Have an assistant
stand a safe distance away and observe it.
9. With the 3-point lowered to the 26 inch stop,
incrementally raise the lift assist until the frame is
level.
10. Check that the front tool bar is at 26 inches above
planting surface. If not, adjust stop and repeat
step 9.
11. Measure the length of exposed rod on the lift
cylinders. Provision two (sets of) blocks in that length
(or stacked to that length).
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12. Fully raise the lift assist and insert the blocks.
Page 23
3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 19
Figure 12
Raising Parking Stand
25240
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
Figure 13
Parking Stand Raised
25241
4
5
1
4
5
Raise Parking Stands
Refer to Figure 12
1. If not already at minimum length, remove lower pin
of parking stand, fully retract the inner leg , and
re-insert pin.
2. Remove upper (holding) pin of parking stand (at
bottom of hinge bracket).
Refer to Figure 13
Falling Object Hazard:
Do not stand directly in front of the stand while raising it. You
need to have one hand free to insert the pin, and if you lose
your grip on the stand, it can swing down and inflict injury.
3. Swing the parking stand forward and up until it is
above the rear hole. Place the holding pin in the
rear-most top hole of the hinge plate. This is the
parking stand position for transport and field
operation.
If 3PYP is equipped with row cleaners, the stand may
not be able to get fully vertical. It may be necessary to
use front top hole .
4. Secure hoses and cables to that they have sufficient
slack for hitch movements, but cannot get caught
between moving parts of planter. Failure to safely
route and secure hoses and cables could result in
damage requiring component repair/replacement,
and lost field time.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Preparation and Setup 20
Figure 14
Marker Extension
25265
E
EEE
Figure 15
Marker Extension Adjustment
18878
1
2
3
E1231
Marker Extension
Marker extension needs to be adjusted once for the initial
3PYP setup, and later only if changing row spacing
(including locking up row units for single-row operation
on a twin-capable planter).
1. If changing between single- and twin-row operation
on older planters, be sure the Row Mode Spacer
blocks are first set correctly before adjusting
markers. See page 160.
2. Move the planter to a location where both markers
may be safely unfolded. Unfold the planter. Lower
the planter. Tilt up and unfold one marker.
3. Find the suggested initial marker Extension in the
following tables.
Row Spacing
15 in. (38.1 cm) Single 240 in. (609.6 cm) 36 in. (91.4 cm) Twin-Row 230 in. (584.2 cm)
20 in. (50.8 cm) Single 240 in. (609.6 cm) 38 in. (96.5 cm) Single 247 in. (627.4 cm)
30 in. (76.2 cm) Single 255 in. (647.7 cm) 38 in. (96.5 cm) Twin-Row 243 in. (617.2 cm)
30 in. (76.2 cm) Twin-Row 251 in. (637.5 cm) 40 in. (101.6 cm) Single 260 in. (660.4 cm)
36 in. (91.4 cm) Single 234 in. (594.4 cm) 40 in. (101.6 cm) Twin-Row 256 in. (650.2 cm)
Marker Extension
Row Spacing
Marker Extension
Refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15
4. Measure out the Extension distance from each
outside end row unit (or row unit in use for twin-row
in lock-up). Do not measure to center of row pair.
5. Mark the ground at this point.
6. To adjust marker width, loosen nuts on U-bolts .
Move marker disk tube in or out to get the proper
adjustment. Tighten nuts .
7. Repeat steps 4 and 6 for the other side.
8. With the planter still lowered, drive forward a few feet
for each side.
9. Check the mark locations. Adjust to obtain the table
value.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index 21
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 3PYP
to the field.
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient pressure to
penetrate the skin. Check all hydraulic lines and fittings before
applying pressure. Fluid escaping from a very small hole can
be almost invisible. Use paper or cardboard, not body parts,
and wear heavy gloves to check for suspected leaks. If an
accident occurs, seek immediate medical assistance from a
physician familiar with this type of injury.
Carefully read “Important Safety Information” on
page 1.
Install seed rate meters appropriate for crop. To
change meters, see “Seed Meter Setup and
Adjustment” on page 72.
Install seed wheels appropriate for crop. To change
wheels, see “Singulator Plus™ Meter Wheel
Replacement” on page 74. Make sure correct 6- or
12-finger units are installed for the intended row
spacing.
Lubricate planter as indicated under “Lubrication”
on page 109.
Check all tires for proper inflation. See “Tire
Inflation Chart” on page 126.
Check all bolts, pins, and fasteners. Torque as
shown in “Torque Values Chart” on page 127.
Check planter for worn or damaged parts. Repair or
replace parts before going to the field.
Check hydraulic hoses, fittings, and cylinders for
leaks. Repair or replace before going to the field.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 22
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
Figure 16
Monitor Console & Panel
25421
25246
1
2
1
2
Machine Damage Risk:
Do not raise or lower while any planter folding operations are
underway or partially complete.
Machine Damage Risk:
Always raise planter for reverse/backing operations.
Figure 17
Planter Raised
29192
Monitor Operation
Refer to Figure 16
The monitor system includes two cab components:
IntelliAg
IntelliAg
Switch panel operations are described in this section.
Monitor console operation is described in a separate
manual supplied with your 3PYP. Operations covered in
that manual (and therefore not in this manual) include:
®
seed monitor console, and
®
clutch-folding module (switch panel)
• hydraulic drive control
(option)
• setting rate limits and
detecting out-of-limits
• seed rate calibration • GPS integration
• planting rate • fan rpm
• fertilizer rate
Raising/Lowering Planter
Refer to Figure 17
(which depicts the planter both raised and unfolded)
Planter raising relies on the 3-point hitch in front, and the
Lift Assist cylinders in back. To raise or lower the planter,
move the levers for both the Lift circuit and the 3-point
hitch.
Great Plains recommends this sequence (to prevent
lateral dragging of wing components):
• in Raising, operate the planter Lift circuit first, and
• in Lowering, operate the hitch circuit first.
The planter may be raised or lowered in either the folded
or unfolded configuration.
The lift assist circuit may also include the optional down
pressure system. This system engages and disengages
automatically.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 23
Figure 18
Planter Folding
25243
25244
25245
Folding the 3PYP
Fold the 3PYP for moves between fields and over public
roads. Fold the planter on level ground with the tractor in
park.
Pinch Point and Crushing Hazard.
To prevent serious injury or death:
Do not allow anyone to be on or near the planter, or
Certain Machine Damage:
Machine damage will occur if wing flex and lock pins are not
properly configured for folding. Follow the instructions on the
following pages carefully.
beyond the ends of the planter during unfolding.
Numerous pinch and crush points exist in the mechanism.
The wings are massive. Coulters and row openers are
sharp.
Fold only with markers resting in transport cradles.
Fold only if hydraulics are bled free of air and fully
charged with hydraulic oil.
Stay away from frame sections when they are being raised.
Keep away and keep others away when folding planter.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 24
Figure 19
Wing Lock Pin Locations
25248
1
2
3
123
Figure 20
Wing Lock & Pin Storage
25247
2
1
1
2
223
3
Locking Pins
Refer to Figure 19
Each wing has two removable pins, stored in the parking
stand when not in use:
• Wing Lock Pin
Used to connect the wing tool bar to the center
section tool bar during planting operations, and keep
the wing tool bar at the same height as the
mainframe tool bar. When this pin is installed at the
coupling, the outer wing is either rigid, or can flex
(depending on the planter “flex” configuration)
• Wing Flex Lock Pin
Required to stabilize pivot during folding and
unfolding. Used during planting to prevent wing flex.
The following table summarizes pin use.
The
INNER pins must be IN
and the
OUTER pins must be OUT
during folding and unfolding,
or machine damage will result.
Pin Location During Comments
Wing Lock
Wing Lock
Flex Lock
Flex Lock
Stowed
Tool bar Coupling
Stowed
Wing Arm Pivot
• Planter Folded
• Planting
• Planting
• Folding/Unfolding
• At all times on “Flex Lock”
planters
Must be removed from coupling during folding and
unfolding or machine damage will result.
Must be removed from coupling during folding and
unfolding or machine damage will result.
Must be present in pivot during folding and unfolding
or machine damage will result.
Must be present in pivot during folding and unfolding
or machine damage will result.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 25
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
Figure 21
Cab Selector Controls
25246
1
2
3
123111231
1. Put tractor in Park.
Refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 on page 24
2. Make sure the inner wing flex lock pins are in place
in the pivot.
3. Make sure the outer wing lock pins are out of the tool
bar coupling.
Machine Damage Risk:
Wing pins must be inner-in and outer-out during folding and
unfolding wings or machine damage will occur.
No pins are required to lock the planter in the folded
configuration.
Refer to Figure 24
4. Set all DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module
FRAME switches to off (down).
5. Raise planter (see “Raising/Lowering Planter” on
page 22).
6. Set FRAME switch “Wing Fold” to on (up).
7. Activate (normally Extend) tractor hydraulic circuit to
unfold wings.
8. When fully folded, set hydraulic circuit to off.
9. Set “Wing Fold” switch to off.
Wing Fold switch has priority over switches and
. If switch is left on, marker operations are
disabled.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 26
Figure 22
Transport Lock Storage
25439
2
1
1
2
25249
Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up
When moving the raised planter more than a short
distance, or over any paved surface, do not rely solely on
the lift cylinders to keep it raised. Install transport locks.
Refer to Figure 22
1. Remove the transport locks from their storage
positions. Do not store the locking pins on the empty
storage tabs.
2. Fully raise the planter (using both 3-point and lift
assist).
3. Remove any height adjusting blocks from the lift
assist cylinders.
4. Install the transport locks on the cylinder rods ,
securing them with the same pins used for storage.
5. Lower the lift assist cylinders onto the locks. Leave
the 3-point raised.
Transport the 3PYP to the field.
Do so only with wings folded and markers stowed.
1. Disconnect 3-point top link
(on 2008+ models with flexible top link).
Loss of Steering Control Hazard:
Never transport with top link connected. When the top link is
adjusted for field work, some of the weight of the planter
mainframe is carried by the top link, which can dangerously
reduce tractor front wheel traction and steering control.
2. Make sure tractor is fueled for the work planned.
3. Before departing, ensure that opener depth and
seed rate have been determined, or that the
necessary data is with you.
4. Close slide gate on hopper or seed box.
Reduction of Control Risk:
Seed may be loaded prior to travel, but increases stopping
distance, increases the need for caution in turns and braking,
and increases tire wear.
5. Hitch, making electrical and hydraulic connections.
These steps are described beginning at “Hitching
Tractor to Planter” on page 13.
6. If markers are unfolded, fold them per the
instructions on page 34. If markers are tilted up, tilt
them down into their cradles per “Marker Tilt-Down”
on page 34.
7. Raise planter.
8. Install cylinder lock-up channels on lift assists. See
“Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up” on page 26
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 27
9. If planter wings are unfolded, fold them. See
“Folding the 3PYP” on page 23
10. Always have lights on for highway operation.
11. Comply with all federal, state and local safety laws
when traveling on public roads.
12. Travel with caution.
Transport Hazard:
Do not exceed 20 mph, or the posted speed limit (whichever is
lower) when driving straight.
Transport Hazard:
Do not exceed 13 mph, or the posted speed limit (whichever is
lower) in turns.
13. Keep Clearances in mind. Folded, your 3PYP may
be over 25 ft wide and over 12
1
/2ft. high.
Steering
Never exceed 13 mph (22 kph) in turns. The 3PYP is
extremely heavy, and can cause “over-steer” with most
tractors. Above 8 mph the rear wheels caster and
provide only modest resistance to side sway by the
planter.
If not equipped with Steering, the rear wheels on the
3PYP are full castering at all times.
If your 3PYP is equipped with hydraulic Steering, it is
normally engaged at all times when speed is less than
8 mph. Although not used during forward motion in
transport, it MUST be engaged for any backing. See
“Steering with Control Module” on page 152
Never exceed 3 mph (5 kph) in reverse.
Machine Damage Risk:
Never back up with the planter lowered.
Machine Damage Risk:
If planter has optional steering, never back up without
steering engaged.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 28
Figure 23
Planter Unfolding
25245
25244
25243
Unfolding The 3PYP
Crushing, Pinch-Point and Overhead Hazards To prevent serious injury or death:
Do not allow anyone to be on or near the planter, or
beyond the ends of the planter during unfolding.
Numerous pinch and crush points exist in the mechanism.
The wings are massive. Coulters and row openers are
sharp.
Unfold only if hydraulics are bled free of air and fully
charged with hydraulic oil.
Unfold only with markers resting in transport cradles.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 29
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
Figure 24
Cab Selector Controls
25246
1
2
3
Figure 25
Flex Lock & Pin Storage
25247
5
6
4
4
5
6
Figure 26
Wing Lock Pin Locations
25248
4
4
1233354
1. Move planter to an area of level ground.
Put tractor in Park.
2. Unless rechecked recently, level the planter per the
instructions on “Frame Height and Leveling” on
page 18.
Refer to Figure 25
3. Make sure wing flex lock pins are in place.
Certain Machine Damage:
Wing flex lock pins must be in place during folding and
unfolding wings or machine damage will occur.
4. Verify that the wing lock pins are available, and are
not in the wing lock-down holes. Normally, in storage,
transport and set-up, these pins are stored in
dedicated holes in the parking stand bracket .
If the lock pins are stored in the lock holes, the wings
will not fully deploy.
Refer to Figure 24
5. Set all DICKEY-john
FRAME switches
®
selector switch module
to off (down).
6. Raise planter.
7. Set FRAME switch “Wing Fold”
to on (up).
8. Activate (normally Extend) tractor hydraulic circuit to
unfold wings.
9. When fully unfolded, set hydraulic circuit to off.
10. Set “Wing Fold” switch
to off (or marker operations
will be disabled).
Refer to Figure 26
11. Insert wing lock pins .
If operation will be over uneven ground, remove wing flex
lock pins , and store in parking stand bracket holes.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 30
Figure 27
Cab Selector Controls
25246
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
Figure 28
Electric Clutch Lockup
29329
1
1
Figure 29
Clutch Plate Nearly at Cutout
26168
4
3
2
23144
Electric Clutch Operation
Your planter has two or three clutches in the meter drive
system. Each clutch enables or disables groups of row
units (see table next page). This mode of operation may
be needed, for example, for planting a pass that isn’t the
full width of the machine.
Which row units are controlled by the clutch switches
depends on how your row units are driven.On
ground-drive machines, the Left/Right switches control
only the wing row units. On hydraulic-drive machines, the
Left/Right switches each control half the row units (and
the Center switch has no function).
The Master switch controls all row units, regardless of
drive type. For all switches, “OFF” (down) removes power
from the clutch, disengaging that set of row units.
Electric Clutch Lock-Up
In case of electric clutch failure, an electric clutch can be
mechanically engaged.
Refer to Figure 28 and Figure 29
1. Remove the three M8-1.25x14 mm metric bolts
from their storage locations near the clutch. Save the
nuts.
2. At the clutch, align the cutouts with the holes .
3. Insert the M8-1.2514 mm metric bolts .
If you observe half the hole obstructed by a metal
disc , you are not at a cutout.
If the entire hole is obstructed by a metal disc , you are
not at a cutout.
When at a cutout, the bolt will screw in with minimal
resistance until the bolt head reaches the clutch face.
Use only the provided 14 mm length bolts. Longer
bolts will damage the clutch. Shorter bolts may not
effect a lock-up. Replacement bolts are Great Plains
part number 802-782C.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 31
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
25246
Clutch Switch Coverage
12-row Ground Drive (36 in. Single, 38 in. Single, 40 in. Single)
Left Center Right
123456789
10111
2
12-Row Hydraulic Drive (36 in. Single, 38 in. Single, 40 in. Single)
Left Right
123456789
10111
2
16-row Ground Drive (30 in. Single)
Left Center Right
123456789
1011121314151
6
16-Row Hydraulic Drive (30 in. Single)
Left Right
123456789
1011121314151
6
23-Row Ground Drive (20 in. Single)
Left Center Right
123456789
101112131415161718192021222
3
23-Row Hydraulic Drive (20 in. Single)
Left Right
123456789
101112131415161718192021222
3
24-Row (12 Twin) Ground Drive (36 in. Twin, 38 in. Twin, 40 in. Twin)
Left Center Right
123456789
10111213141516171819202122232
4
24-Row (12 Twin) Hydraulic Drive (36 in. Twin, 38 in. Twin, 40 in. Twin)
Left Right
123456789
10111213141516171819202122232
4
31-Row Ground Drive (15 in. Single)
Left Center Right
123456789
1011121314151617181920212223242526272829303
1
31-Row Hydraulic Drive (15 in. Single)
Left Right
123456789
1011121314151617181920212223242526272829303
1
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 32
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
25246
Clutch Switch Coverage
32-Row (16-Twin) Ground Drive (30 in. Twin)
Left Center Right
123456789
101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313
2
32-Row (16-Twin) Hydraulic Drive (30 in. Twin)
Left Right
123456789
101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313
2
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 33
Marker Fold
Marker Tilt
FRAME
Wing Fold
Right
CLUTCH
Center
Left
MASTER
Figure 30
Cab Selector Controls
25246
Marker Operation
Overhead Hazard:
To prevent serious injury or death, do not allow anyone to
stand near or beyond the end of the wings during marker
operations. Marker arms are heavy and marker discs may be
sharp.
If your 3PYP has markers, unfolding of the markers is
performed only after unfolding the wings.
The Wing switch must be OFF during all marker
operations. When Wing Fold is ON, marker switches are
disabled.
The tilt operation is performed before the unfold
operation. The tilt switch must be OFF during marker fold
operations. When Marker Tilt is ON, the Marker Fold
switch is disabled.
Before operating markers, make sure cylinders are
properly bled. See “Bleeding Hydraulics” on page 102.
This section presumes correct marker length for your
pass spacing. If this has not been set, or needs to be
changed, see “Marker Extension” on page 20.
This section presumes a factory marker chain
configuration. If your chain has been replaced, or
stretched, adjust the links to the correct slack length. See
“Marker Chain Length Adjustment” on page 90
Dual markers are equipped with an automatic sequence
valve that controls which side activates, as well as
marker deployment.
Folding speed of dual markers is adjusted via set screws
on the sequence valve body. Excessive folding speed
may damage markers. See “Dual Marker Speed
Adjustment” on page 91
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 34
Figure 31
Marker Tilted Up
25250
Figure 32
One Marker Unfolded
25251
Marker Tilt-Up
Refer to Figure 30 and Figure 31
1. On the DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module, set all
FRAME switches off (down).
2. Set “Marker Tilt” switch to on (up).
3. Move tractor hydraulic control (lever or switch) for the
marker circuit to Retract. Hold until marker is raised.
Do not leave control in detent.
4. Set “Marker Tilt” switch to off (down), and leave it in
off position during normal field operations.
Marker Unfold (one side)
Refer to Figure 30 and Figure 32
1. On the DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module, set
“Marker Fold” to on (up).
2. Move tractor hydraulic control (lever or switch) for the
marker circuit to Extend. Hold until marker
completely unfolded. Do not leave tractor control in
detent.
3. If the marker side operating is not the desired side,
let it unfold part way, and move the tractor’s circuit
control to “Retract”. When the marker is folded, move
the circuit control to Extend to activate the other side.
On the DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module leave the
“Marker Fold” switch on during normal field operations.
The other FRAME switches must be OFF.
Row Marker Operation
To alternate which side is marked:
1. Move the tractor’s circuit control to Retract. Hold until
marker is folded.
2. Move the tractor’s circuit control to Extend. Hold until
the new side’s marker is fully unfolded.
3. Return tractor control to neutral/off.
Folding The Markers
If your planter has markers, they must be folded and
secured before folding the wings.
1. Move the tractor’s circuit control to Retract. Hold until
marker is folded.
Marker Tilt-Down
With both markers in the upright and folded
Unusual Marker Operations
Both Sides Unfolded
With both markers in the upright/tilted positions:
1. Unfolded either side, and when completely
deployed…
2. Move lever/switch to Retract momentarily, and return
to Extend to deploy other side.
configuration, and the tractor circuit control off/neutral:
1. On the DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module, set
“Marker Fold” to off (down).
2. On the DICKEY-john
®
selector switch module, set
“Marker Tilt” to ON.
3. Move tractor circuit control to Extend. Hold until
markers are resting in transport cradles.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 35
Figure 33
Air Box Seed Inlet
27412
1
1
Refer to Figure 34
Y-tube gates can be shut off to feed only one row for
single-row planting on 15 inch, 20 inch, or twin-row
machines. In the photograph, both meter tubes are open.
For precise centerline alignment, it is also advisable
to offset the hitch. See “Hitching Tractor to Planter”
on page 13
You can also shut off the Y-tube gates to clean out the air
system and meters. Refer to “Cleaning Out Air System”
on page 88.
Figure 34
Seed Y-Tube
22843
Y-Tubes
Airbox Operation
Refer to Figure 33
The function of the airbox is to mix seed with turbulent
air from the hydraulic fan, which exit through a manifold
to the seed tubes which serve the row unit meters.
Fan Operation
The hydraulic fan must hook up to the case drain line
first. Check with tractor manufacturer for proper
connection of oil sump return line.
Use tractor remote hydraulic valve flow control to set fan
speed. Start with flow on low setting. 8 to 12 gallons per
minute is average flow.
Do not apply pressure to the return line or operate
with restricted return line or motor seals will be
damaged.
Recommended butterfly valve setting is 0.
Recommended fan speed depends on planter
configuration:
3800 rpm
3500 rpm
2008+ planters using 2008+ 82 bu. hoppers (or
older hoppers with the vent line update)
2006- planters, or any planter using bulk seed
boxes or unvented hoppers
Do not run the fan at speeds over 4500 rpm or speeds
under 3000 rpm. Fans operating at too high a speed
create too much air flow causing seed to plug up the air
box. Fans operating too slowly do not create enough air
flow to push the seed to the meter, causing the seed tube
to plug. If air system does not operate suitably with fan
speeds between 3000-4500 rpm, refer to the
troubleshooting chart, and then adjust the fan butterfly
valve. See “Fan Adjustments” on page 58
Watch monitor and adjust fan speed by increasing or
decreasing hydraulic flow from tractor.
When starting empty you must blow seed out to the
meters for two to four minutes to fill meters.
The monitor has a level sensor below the hopper or seed
box to warn when seed box is empty. There are three to
four acres of seed in the system when the sensor first
indicates box empty.
Before the first planting each season, or when using new
meters or meter wheels for the first time, for the first time
at the start of each season, add
bottom of airbox.
1
/3cup graphite to
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 36
Figure 35
Hopper Capacities (bu.)
22958
Approximate capacity of bulk seed hopper,
in bushels, at 10 inch increments.
82 Bu.Hopper Operation
Tipping Hazard:
Load the 82 bu.hopper only when mounted on the cart. A full
hopper can weigh over 5000 lbs, which is above the lifting and
balance capability of most tractors and farm forklifts.
Adding Seed to 82 bu. Hopper
1. If using new meters for the first time, measure out
approximately 3 gallons of seed into a pail. Add
1
/3cup of lubricant. Mix and pour into air box before
mounting hopper.
2. If no seed container is present, or the previous
operation was using a bulk seed box, mount the
empty 82 bu. hopper on cart. See “Changing the
Seed Box or 82 Bu. Hopper” on page 37.
3. Put tractor in Park.
4. Set FRAME hydraulic switches to OFF.
5. Turn off seed box fan. This also turns off the Steering
(if installed).
6. Make sure walkboard is locked closed (unless it
needs to be opened for seed loading).
7. Close slide gate at base of hopper. Open lid.
8. Measure the lubricant required, and if loading seed
by bag, determine the amount of lubricant per bag.
Observe all safety precautions for use of loading equipment,
particularly augers.
9. Add seed, mixing in lubricant continuously or per
bag.
10. Close lid. Open slide gate.
An update kit is available for older 82 bu. hoppers,
providing consistent seed flow at higher fan speeds.
See page 120.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 37
Figure 36
Walkboard and
Seed Box Lock Pins
25252
1
2
2
1
Figure 37
Walkboard Open
25253
2
Changing the Seed Box or 82 Bu. Hopper
The 3PYP accepts only the Great Plains 82 bushel
hopper or bulk seed boxes that meet the Pioneer
PROBOX® specification.
Tipping Hazard:
Place or remove an 82 bushel hopper only when empty. A full
hopper can weigh over 5000 pounds, which is above the lifting
and balance capability of most tractors and farm forklifts.
1. Park the planter in an area with level ground and
sufficient room to maneuver a tractor or fork-loader.
2. Turn off the seed box fan.
3. Put the towing tractor in Park. Shut off engine.
Remove key.
4. Close the slide gate at the base of the hopper or
seed box.
Refer to Figure 36
5. Remove the walkboard lock pin .
Refer to Figure 37
6. Swing the walkboard completely open and secure
with keeper.
Refer to Figure 36
7. Remove the two pins , one back left, one right
front, used to retain the seed box or hopper. Remove
these pins even if no container is presently mounted.
a
a. PROBOX® is a registered trademark of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 38
Figure 38
Removing/Mounting Hopper
25254
Figure 39
Approaching Hopper
25255
Refer to Figure 38
8. Align the lifting forks with the slots in the rear of the
seed box or hopper. Slowly drive forward until the
forks are completely under the container.
9. Slowly lift the seed container above the bracket, and
back away from the planter.
10. Lower the container to the ground for exchange with
the next seed box.
11. If mounting a seed box, open the new seed box and
measure out approximately 3 gallons of seed into a
pail. Add
1
/3cup of lubricant. Mix and pour into air
box before mounting new seed box.
12. If mounting a seed box, add lubricant to the seed box
at this time. It may be easier to add it while the box is
still at ground level.
Plugging and Inconsistent Population Risk:
Talc+graphite lubricant is mandatory for all seed, especially
treated or inoculated seed when using precision meters.
However, DO NOT use talc with finger pickup meters. Use
only graphite lubricant with finger pickup meters. See “Seed
Lubricants” on page 116
Refer to Figure 39
13. Approach the hopper or seed box from the back (the
side with the slide gate).
Tipping Hazard:
A full seed box can weigh over 2500 pounds. Make sure your
tractor or fork lift is rated for and configured to lift this weight.
Do not let anyone stand under or in front of the elevated seed
box.
It is possible to lift the hopper or seed box from any side, but it
will only function properly if the seed gate is to the rear of the
planter.
14. Slowly lift the full seed box or empty hopper, and
place it in the planter air box frame.
15. Install the box retaining pins in frame corners.
16. It may be necessary to make a one-time adjustment
to the seal on the top of the air box, to obtain full
contact between air box and seed box/hopper.
17. If installing an empty hopper for planting, load seed
(and lubricant).
18. Open the slide gate.
19. Return the walkboard to the closed position and
install the latching pin.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 39
Figure 40
Steering System Screen
68247A
Figure 41
Steering Calibration Screen
68247H
Steering with Control Monitor
(APPLIES TO ALL PLANTERS
serial numbers B1127J+)
Steering System Modes of Operation
There are two modes of operation for the steering
system on the 3PYP and 3PYPA planters. Which mode
of operation to use is based on whether the tractor is
manually steered or has an auto-steer system.
If the tractor is manually steered then the planter steering
system should be set to “Steer While Planting” mode. In
this mode the planter steering system is always active.
Steering System Selection
Tap the ‘3PYP’ soft key to open the 3PYP Steering
System screen. In order to enable steering, tap the
soft key for ‘Master Steering System.’ Your machine now
has the steering system enabled. In order to use the
steering system for planting, tap the soft key for
‘Steer While Planting.’
Tap the soft key to disable any of these selections.
Steering Calibration
The hydraulic steering system has calibration modes for
caster and tractor wheel sensors. To perform one of
these calibrations, first fully connect your planter to the
tractor, level the machine, and set it on a reasonably flat
surface large enough for simple operation. Then select
and proceed to the calibration instructions screen.
Machine calibration requires you make three separate
movements with the machine: left, center, and right. After
each of these movements, click the ‘Press to Save’
button followed by ‘Next’ to proceed to the next
calibrations step. Once all three movements are
performed and saved, machine calibration is complete.
Hydraulic-powered planter hydraulic steering is standard
on the 3PYP planter.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 40
Figure 42
Steering Advanced Setup Screen
68247C
Figure 43
Steering Diagnostics Screen
68247E
Advanced Setup
Advanced Setup grants access to more factory settings.
Many of these should only be changed by a certified
Great Plains dealer. However, if you need to alter your
settings for either tractor, CANBus, or ISOBus steering,
you can make that change in your terminal’s advanced
setup page.
To access the advanced setup screen, go to the initial
steering calibration screen and tap on ‘Advanced Setup’
. A number pad will prompt you for the level 2
access code. Tap in ‘344787’ and you should see the
‘Advanced Setup’ screen appear. Now you can tap on a
box next to the steering you want to select it for use. Tap
on the home icon to exit when finished.
NOTE: Unavailable Steering
If a steering system is unavailable, its name will have
a line struck through it on your screen. Check your
onboard CPU if your system appears unavilable.
Diagnostics
Tap on the diagnostics icon to analyze machine sensor
feedback and check for any problems your planter may
be experiencing.
An unfilled circle indicates the machine’s function is
normal. If a circle is filled red , then the sensors have
either detected an open (disconnected) circuit or a short
circuit has occurred. Check the appropriate area of the
machine to assess the problem.
If a circle is filled gray , then the sensors detected an
error has occurred but was cleared.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 41
Figure 44
Steering Control Module
29850
32
1
5
6
4
1
Figure 45
s/n A1055S- Module Rear View
31775
2
Figure 46
s/n A1056S+ Module Rear View
31698
7
Steering with Module Control
(APPLIES TO ALL PLANTERS
serial numbers A1055S through B1126J)
Hydraulic-powered planter steering is standard on 3PYP
planters. Before using the system for transport or field
operations, calibrate the ECU
Steering controls caster position. When the hydraulic
steering system is active, the casters steer to match the
turning radius of the tractor. This prevents wheel digging
in soft soils, and minimizes field damage when backing
and turning on beds.
Refer to Figure 44
When engaged (via switch ), the system functions
automatically, and is active for all forward and reverse
movements up to 8.0 mph. Casters float during any
movement above 8.0 mph (12.9 km/h).
Equipment Damage Risk:
All reverse planter movements require the tractor for which the
planter steering is calibrated. The casters match steering only
with that tractor, and only with steering engaged. See
“Emergency Moves Without Steering” on page 156.
a
(page 153).
Equipment Damage Risk:
If the Power LED is not on and steady, do not move the
planter or make only careful forward moves. If the LED is
blinking, there is a steering malfunction, and steering is NOT
engaged. See “Steering Error Flash Codes” on page 86.
a. Electronic Control Unit - Steering match relies on sensors mounted on both planter and tractor, and calibration of the ECU (page 153).
The tractor sensor is normally dealer- installed, a topic covered in the 3PYP Pre-Delivery Manual, publication 401-312Q.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 42
12312345657
Steering Configuration Switch
This cab-mounted switch box controls both normal
operation and field calibration of the Steering system. It
has 4 switches and 3 indicator lamps. See page 153 for
calibration details. In normal operations, only the
STEER switch and indicators and are employed.
Steering Control Module Function Switch Positions and Indications
STEER Toggle Switch:
Steering System Power
LED:
Power / Fault
FLOAT LED:
Float / Caster
CALIBRATION Toggle Switch:
Calibration Modes
LEARN Button:
Calibration (Learn)
LED: Calibration
Rotary Switch Knob
(ONLY APPLIES TO s/n A1056S+)
On (up): Steering enabled (casters match or float)
Off (down): Steering disabled (casters in Float)
On steady: Steering system active (casters match or float)
Blinking: Steering system fault (casters in Float)
Off: Normal operation - steering system active if STEER on
On: Casters in Float (if STEER LED is steady)
L: Caster aspect sensor (casters in Float)
C: Calibration mode off (normal transport/field mode)
R: Tractor aspect sensor (casters in Float)
First press: Learn tight Right turn
Next press: Learn Straight ahead
Next press: Learn tight Left turn
Off: Normal (non-Calibration) operation
Dim: Either Calibration mode selected
Bright Flash: Button press acknowledged
Vertical position: Normal operation - steering system active while planting as
well as raised
Horizontal position: Used when tractor is utilizing auto-steer - steering system
floats while planting - active only when planter is raised
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 43
Field Set-Up Checklist
Use the following tables to develop a final checklist for
your tractor/planter configuration. Additional or fewer
steps may be necessary depending on tractor features,
planter options and planting accessories.
Mechanical Checklist Page
Tongue height preset on 3-point 18
3-point top link adjusted (if used) 14
Planter unfolded 28
Front-to-rear level 18
Side-to-side level at gauge wheels 18
Marker tilt complete 34
Marker initial length set 20
Marker disc angle set 56
Markers folded (unless already at start of first
planting row)
Electrical Checklist Page
Verify electrical hookups solid 15
Power up monitor and observe any diagnostic
messages
With hydraulic circuits in neutral, check
switches and indicator lights on CLUTCH and
FRAME switch panel. Return all switches to
OFF.
If equipped with hydraulic planter drive, verify
that radar speed sensor is pointed at ground,
at an angle approximately 35 below
horizontal.
a. Refer to monitor manual.
b. Refer to sensor documentation.
34
25
Row Units Checklist Page
Preset depth handles to 7 holes showing
above “T”
69
Preset down force springs to first notch
(lightest) setting for most conditions, 2nd
63
notch otherwise)
Set all unit-mounted coulters to
shallower than opener blades.
1
4 in
68
Check coulter alignment to row 68
Check closing wheel alignment 79
Set closing wheels to first notch (light setting) 79
Engage meter clutch for all desired rows 30
Check action and contact of side depth
wheels
70
Gauge wheel scraper gap (if installed) 72
a
Row Cleaners Checklist Page
Outer wing cleaners clear of center section
hoses (wings folded). Observe cleaners
during wing unfold to ensure none catch on
23
hoses.
Cleaner depth setting 67
b
Fertilizer (Option) Checklist Page
Check tractor-mounted components
Check for correct orifice plates
a
b
Air System Checklist Page
Manifold to seed box or hopper seal -
Seed loaded 36
Seed lubricated 36
Tube gates turned on to correct rows 35
No air leaks (except from seed box) -
Hose routings - no sags, no pinches (check
wing-folded & field positions)
-
Check unused rows correctly closed off 59
Fill system half full with water, and check for
leaks - run pump if possible
Check all row unit lines are connected, free of
kinks, and discharge tube/nozzles are clear
a. Check supplier manual for tanks and pump. Check fertilizer
section of monitor manual.
b. Check Seed Rate manual, and manual for fertilizer pump
system.
-
-
Clean-out doors closed at meters 88
Hoses fully connected to meters and locked 75
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 44
Hydraulic System Checklist Page
Check hydraulic reservoir full -
Inspect connections for leaks -
Perform a raise and lower operation 22
Check fan speed and airflow direction
If equipped, set CLUTCH Master switch off,
and check hydraulic planter drive rotation
Ensure all FRAME switches are OFF except
Marker Fold
a. Operate fan briefly and observe rotor blades spinning
toward exit port. Check rpm on seed monitor.
Gauge Wheel Planter Drive Checklist Page
Check gauge wheel inflation and tread
condition
Set range, transmission and upper drive
sprockets for desired seed rate
Check all chains for lubrication and proper
slack
Lubricate slider joints on drive shafts 109
Check clutch operation 30
a
30
25
126
49
109
Hydraulic Planter Drive Checklist Page
Check chain lubrication and slack 109
Input initial values for desired seed rate
Pre-run system using seed monitor
Calibration mode to verify hydraulic action
Lubricate slider joints on drive shafts 109
Check clutch operation 30
a. Refer to seed monitor manual and Seed Rate manual.
b. Refer to seed monitor manual.
Meters Checklist Page
Correct meters for seed
Correct wheels for seed *
Correct fingers for seed *
Close clean-out doors 88
Corn?
Check timing of meters for twin-row
Check chain tension
Check meter assemblies secured 75
Engage drive couplers 75
Add lubricant to seed if not already done 36
a
b
a
*
a. Refer to Seed Rate manual.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 45
Field Operation
Perform all steps in “Pre-Start Checklist” on page 21
and “Field Set-Up Checklist” on page 43.
First Pass Operation Page
Fold up marker. 34
Raise planter and line up at start of first
22
planting row
Set tool bar height to 26 inches. 18
Set tractor 3-point hitch to “depth
control” operation (and not load control)
If tractor hitch is set for load control,
planting depth will be uneven.
Unfold marker on next-row side. 32
Turn on seed fan. Adjust hydraulic flow
35
for 3800 rpm.
If planter is equipped with hydraulic
drive, engage drive via seed monitor.
Refer to seed monitor manual.
If planter has a fertilizer system, turn on
the pump. Refer to pump manual.
On CLUTCH switch control panel, set
30
all switches to ON.
Pull forward, lower planter, and begin
planting for a short distance.
Stop. Assess:
planting depth
seed spacing
press wheel operation
Make necessary adjustments 48
Turns Page
Stop at completion of row
1.
Fold marker 34
2.
Raise planter 22
3.
Make turn
4.
Lower planter 22
5.
Unfold marker on next-row side. 32
6.
Begin planting.
7.
Suspending Planting Page
Stop tractor
1.
Shut off seed fan 35
2.
Shut off fertilizer pump
3.
Raise planter 22
4.
Shut off hydraulic drive (if equipped)
5.
Fold Marker 34
6.
Tilt Marker down 34
7.
Ending Planting Page
Suspend operations as above, then
1.
Install lift assist locks 26
2.
Steering OFF 41
3.
Lights ON
4.
Transport 26
5.
Planting
When all checklist items are complete, a planting pass
normally consists of a few simple steps:
Pass 1 (with marker extended)
1. Lower planter (Hitch then Lift)
2. Drive forward
3. Scan monitors and controls. Check for errors, alerts
and out-of-limits events. Check planting rate reports.
4. At end of pass, stop.
5. Raise planter (Lift then Hitch)
6. Extend/retract marker as needed for next pass
7. Turn
Subsequent Passes
8. Resume at step 1.
When reloading seed and fertilizer, check consumption
against anticipated use to that point.
Checking Planting Rate
Although your seed monitor reports useful full pass
results, cautious practice includes manually checking the
seed rate early in the first pass.
The Seed Rate Chart book for this planter (manual part
number 401-312B) contains sampling instructions.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 46
Figure 47
Parking Stand Raised
25241
1
3
2
1
2
Figure 48
Raising Parking Stand
25240
3
4
5
13454
Short-Term Parking
1. Fold markers and tilt them down. See “Folding The
Markers” on page 34
2. Choose a location with level firm ground. Do not
unhitch on a steep slope.
3. Unfold the planter. If there is ample space, Great
Plains recommends parking the planter unfolded.
This allows easiest access for routine maintenance,
particularly on the folding mechanism. Do not insert
wing lock pins.
Refer to Figure 47 and Figure 48
Falling Object Hazard:
Do not stand in front of stand while swinging it down. If you
lose control of the motion, the stand can seriously injure you.
4. Remove pin holding each parking stand up.
Swing stands down. They may not be fully vertical at
this point.
5. Fully raise planter.
6. The load on the parking stands is as much as
5700 pounds each (or 116 psi). If the ground is soft
or uncertain, place boards or concrete pads under
the parking stand locations.
7. Insert pin in the lower hole , locking the stand in
the parking position.
8. Remove pin and extend inner parking leg to the
ground.
9. Slowly raise the leg until the hole in the outer leg
aligns with a hole in the inner leg. Re-insert pin .
10. Install lift assist lock if not already present.
11. Lower planter until hitch is not resting on tractor
3-point.
12. Disconnect hydraulic lines. Secure them so that they
do not touch the ground.
13. Disconnect electrical cables, capping where
provisioned.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Operating Instructions 47
Figure 49
Planter Parked
25256
Long-Term Storage
14. Park the 3PYP indoors if possible, per the steps
above. Great Plains recommends parking/storing in
the raised position, unfolded, on extended parking
stands and with lift-assist cylinder locks in place.
15. If no hopper or seed box is mounted, cap the air box.
16. If empty seed box or hopper is mounted, close the
seed gate and the lid.
17. If partially-loaded seed box or hopper is mounted,
close seed gate, and remove seed box. Store planter
only without seed.
18. Open air box clean-out door. Clean out residual
seed.
19. Dismount meters. Open meter clean-outs. Invert
meters and shake out loose seed.
20. Clean out air delivery system. Run fan with meters
disconnected.
21. Tie or tape a small plastic bag over ends of all seed
delivery tubes to prevent insects from entering or
nesting.
If meters are dismounted, tie or tape a small plastic
bag over ends of all air tubes, and block openings
where meters attach to row units.
22. Apply grease to exposed cylinder rods to prevent
rust.
23. Flush fertilizer lines (if present).
24. Empty and clean fertilizer filter.
25. Plug or cap fertilizer line to tractor.
26. Clean planter of mud, dirt, excess oil and grease.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index 48
Adjustments
To get full performance from your 3PYP, you need an
understanding of all component operations, and many
provide adjustments for optimal field results. Some of
Even if your planting conditions rarely change, some of
these items need periodic adjustment due to normal
wear.
these have already been covered earlier in this manual.
Adjustment Page The Adjustment Affects
Frame height 18 Planting depth
Frame level 18 Planting consistency
Height Switch Adjustment 57 Correct off/on state of meter drive
Wing Leveling 159 Planting consistency
Gauge Wheel Tension 53 Planting depth; reliable row unit operation
Gauge Wheel Sprocket Selection (ground drive) 49 Reliable row unit operation
Hydraulic Drive (option) Adjustments - Refer to 3PYP Seed Rate manual
Gauge Wheel Sprocket Selection (ground drive) - Refer to 3PYP Seed Rate manual
Marker Extension 20 Intended row spacing
Marker Chain Length Adjustment 90 Visibility of centerline mark
Dual Marker Speed Adjustment 91 Reliable marker operation
Fan Adjustments 58 Consistent seed flow to meters
Fertilizer Setup (option) 59 Seed germination and growth
Fertilizer Orifices (option) - Refer to 3PYP Seed Rate manual
Hydraulic Down Pressure 62 Consistent planting depth
25 Series Row Units 62
Row Unit Lock-Up 66 Single/twin-row operation
Row Unit Down Pressure 63 Planting depth
Unit-Mount Cleaner Adjustments (Option) 67 Row preparation
Coulter Adjustments (Option) 68 Row pre-groove depth
Row-Unit Opener Adjustments 69 Seed groove depth and width
Adjusting Depth Wheel Scrapers 72 Consistent seed groove depth
Seed Meter Setup and Adjustment 72 Consistent seed population
Finger Meter Indexing - Refer to 3PYP Seed Rate manual
Seed Firmer Adjustments (Option) 78 Seed-soil contact
Press Wheel Adjustment 79 Effective soil coverage
Monitor Adjustments - Refer to Seed Monitor manual
Older Planters
Row mode spacer 160 Intended row-group spacing
Hydraulic Down Pressure 161 Consistent planting depth
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 49
Seed
Rate
Control
Planter Drive Type
Contact Hydraulic
Coarse
Range Sprockets
(see page 50 and Seed
Rate Manual)
Seed Monitor
Console Data Entry
(see Monitor Manual)
Fine
Upper, Transmission
Drive Sprockets
(see page 51 and Seed
Rate Manual)
Figure 50
Ground Drive Chains
25259
1
2
3
1
Setting Seed Rate
The procedure for setting seed rate depends on whether
the planter has ground (contact) drive or hydraulic drive.
Rate setting details are found in other manuals. Some
general information is found in this manual.
Regardless of how rate is set, rate is precisely measured
by the seed monitor, for most seed types.
Indexing
In twin-row operations with finger pickup meters,
seed-to-seed spacing between pairs of a “row” can be
controlled by sprocket indexing (see page 78).
Gauge Wheel Sprocket Selection
On 3PYPs without hydraulic drive, the row units are
driven by the gauge wheels, in ground drive.
Refer to Figure 50
The ground drive assembly has three chains that are
user adjustable:
1. Range
2 of 6 sprockets, stored on shafts
both ends may adjust
2. Transmission
2 of 10 sprockets, stored on vertical spindle
both ends may adjust
3. Upper drive
1 of 2 sprockets, selected by spacer
only one end adjusts
For a specific row-spacing, meter and seed, the starting
sprocket settings for all three chains are found in the
Seed Rate Chart book for this planter (manual part
number 401-312B).
Fine adjustment to planting rate is made by the
Transmission chain .
Sprocket pairings are identified in the Charts both by
sprocket size and by which sprocket is mounted on which
shaft.
Sprockets are sized by tooth count, stamped on the
sprocket.The same shaft can be both a driving and
driven shaft depending on the required combinations.
The DRIVING shaft on any chain is the one closer to the
gauge wheel (lower in the assembly).
The DRIVEN shaft on any chain is the one further from
the gauge wheel (higher in the assembly).
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 50
The 3PYP must be unfolded, and the tractor or planter parked,
before making any of these adjustments.
Equipment Damage/Misapplication Risks:
Any setup and adjustments must be made identically on each of
the two gauge wheel drives. If there are any differences, there
will be excess clutch wear, and unpredictable seed rate results.
Figure 51
Lower Range Sprockets
25260
3
1
2
Driving
Driven
1
231
For All Ground Drive Adjustments
Steps:
1. Raise the planter and install lift-assist cylinder locks.
2. Rotate each gauge wheel. Check that seed meters,
seed tubes and drives are working properly and are
clear of debris and obstructions.
3. Check tire pressure, per “Tire Inflation Chart” on
page 126.
Drive Range Sprockets
1. Obtain the sprocket pairing from the Seed Rate
Chart.
2. Loosen the bolt on the forward idler , and slide the
idler to the bottom of its track.
3. Remove the lynch pins from both the driving , and
driven shafts.
4. Remove the four alternate sprockets, and set them
on the tool bar.
5. Remove the chain and hang it behind a lynch pin on
the transmission.
6. Exchange the existing low range sprockets for those
called out in the Seed Rate Chart.
Equipment Damage/Misapplication Risks:
Make sure the correct sprockets are mounted on the driving or
driven shafts as called for by the Charts.
7. Slide the idler up, and tighten its bolt, allowing
1
/4inch slack in the longest chain span.
8. Store the four alternate sprockets on the shafts and
re-pin.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 51
Figure 52
Upper Drive Sprocket
25261
a
b
c
Driven
Driving
abc
a
Figure 53
Transmission Sprockets
25262
4
2
1
3
Driving
Driven
12341
Upper Drive Sprocket
1. Obtain the driven sprocket selection from the Seed
Rate Chart. Make sure your configuration actually
needs to be changed.
2. Loosen the bolt on the forward idler , and slide the
idler to the bottom of its track.
3. Remove split plastic spacer . It will be to the left of
the smaller (18 tooth) sprocket if the 18T was in use,
and to the right of the larger (36 tooth) sprocket if the
36T was in use.
4. Move the spacer (part number 120-337S) to the
other side of the sprocket pair, sliding the sprocket
pair left or right to make room.
5. Lift the chain off the sprocket formerly in use, and
move it to the sprocket to be used.
6. Slide the idler up, and tighten its bolt, allowing
1
/4inch slack in the longest chain span.
Transmission Sprockets
1. Obtain the initial sprocket pairing from the Seed Rate
Chart.
2. Loosen the bolt on the forward idler , and slide the
idler to the bottom of its track.
3. Remove the lynch pins from both the driving , and
driven shafts.
4. Remove the chain and hang it behind a lynch pin on
the low range.
5. As needed, exchange the existing sprocket pair for
the new pair, using alternate sprockets from the
vertical storage spindle .
Equipment Damage/Misapplication Risks:
Make sure the correct sprockets are mounted on the driving or
driven shafts as called for by the Charts.
6. Slide the idler up, and tighten its bolt, allowing
1
/4inch slack in the longest chain span.
7. Store the removed and any loose sprockets on the
spindle shaft and re-pin it. Make sure all eight
alternative sprockets are accounted for.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 52
Figure 54
Gauge Wheel - Ground Drive
25257
Figure 55
Gauge Wheel - Hydraulic Drive
25434
Transmission Adjustments
For singulating and finger pickup meters, rate
adjustments should never be necessary. If the seed
spacing is not correct, it is likely that there is a planter
configuration error or malfunction. Find and correct the
problem. Do not attempt to compensate for it by
adjusting the target population rate.
For volumetric seeds, after checking initial planting rate,
per the Seed Rate manual, it may be necessary to make
changes to the transmission sprocket configuration.
If the error is small, a few percent, choose a slightly
higher or lower target population from the Seed Rate
chart, and install new sprockets for that rate.
If the error is large, it is likely that there is a planter
configuration error or malfunction. Find and correct the
problem. Do not attempt to compensate for it by
adjusting the target population rate.
Gauge Wheel Adjustments
The gauge wheels, which may also be contact drive
wheels, serve three functions:
1. Regardless of meter drive type, the gauge wheels
each establish the heights of their respective wings.
A spring-loaded yoke assembly provides some
flexibility over rocks and uneven ground. See
“Gauge Wheel Tension” on page 53 to set this
spring.
2. In ground-drive (contact-drive), the gauge wheels
mutually contribute drive power for the row unit
mechanisms. See “Gauge Wheel Sprocket
Selection” on page 49.
3. In ground-drive, the gauge wheels control the
planting rate at the meters, via three sprocket setup
positions. See “Gauge Wheel Sprocket Selection”
on page 49.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 53
Figure 56
Adjusting Gauge Wheel Tension
25258
1
2
4
3
5
6
123442112344456
1
Gauge Wheel Tension
Refer to Figure 56
Before performing this step, the 3PYP center section and
wings must be level and aligned, and the tool bar height
must be set to 26 inches. If these steps have not been
performed, “Frame Height and Leveling” on page 18
and “Wing Leveling” on page 159.
As the gauge wheel tire wears, this adjustment may need
periodic attention.
The planter must be on firm, level ground for this step
(which may be performed when the planter leveling is
done). The planter must be unfolded.
1. Raise the planter so that the gauge wheels are just
off the ground.
2. Loosen the nut above the yoke block .
3. Raise or lower the planter so that the base of the tool
bar is 26 inches from the ground.
4. Using an open-end or adjustable wrench at the
integral hex nut of the adjustment link , rotate
the link until the spring is just touching the yoke
block , with neither gap nor compression.
5. Tighten the top nut .
Contact Drive Adjustments
When planting, if the monitor indicates under-seeding,
check for slippage of the gauge wheels. If they are
slipping:
1. Raise the planter so that the gauge wheels are just
off the ground.
2. Loosen the nut
3. Using an open-end or adjustable wrench at the
integral hex nut of the adjustment link , rotate
the link to adjust the gauge wheel tension. Using
the base of the link flange , and the pivot grease
zerk as a reference, increase this distance to
increase down-force on the wheel.
4. Tighten the top nut .
above the yoke block .
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 54
John Deere 8000 Series tractors:
Set timer to continuous. Push lever forward until detent
clicks.
Case IH
®
Magnum™ tractors:
Lock lever forward in detent position. You may need to
turn up detent pressure to its maximum setting. Do not
tie hydraulic lever past detent position with a strap. See
your tractor dealer for hydraulic-system details.
Other tractors:
Lock lever forward in detent position. You may need to
turn up detent pressure to maximum or use a mechanical
detent holder to hold lever forward. See your tractor
dealer for providing constant flow to openers.
Figure 57: s/n A1025S+
Hydraulic Down Pressure Valves
29194
1
1
c
4
2
3
1
c
2
3
142
Hydraulic Down Pressure
Refer to Figure 57
If the desired opener depth cannot be consistently
achieved using spring adjustment (page 64), or the
gauge wheel is slipping at the force required, the optional
hydraulic down pressure may remedy the problem. It
uses two cylinders to transfer more weight to the wings.
Equipment Damage Risk:
The current hydraulic down pressure option is compatible only
with “closed center” tractor hydraulics.
Before making depth adjustments with valve , make
sure the system (valve ) has been calibrated. See
“Hydraulic Down Pressure Calibration” on page 161.
To adjust hydraulic down pressure:
1. Set the mechanical (cam spring) down pressure to
notch 3. See “Row Unit Down Pressure” on
page 63.
2. The remote lever must be LOCKED OPEN in this
position to provide constant pressure/flow to the
openers.
3. With the tractor hydraulic lever locked forward,
release the lock disk , turn the knob on the
pressure control valve .
4. Watch the pressure gauge and set the desired
pressure. Clockwise increases the pressure and
counterclockwise decreases pressure.
5. Once the pressure is set, lock the knob with the lock
disk .
Refer to “Hydraulic Down Pressure Calibration” on
page 161 to know what to expect the planter to do as
hydraulics are cycled.
The recommended pressure range for planting is
between 400 psi and 600 psi.
The opener pressure setting controls the soil firming
pressure on the press wheel as well as the disk
penetrating force. DO NOT use more opener down
pressure than necessary to obtain the desired opener
penetration and to maintain the proper firming action
over the seed. Excessive opener force will lead to
excessive wear and damage of the opener components.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 55
Figure 58
Weight Transfer Pin
29201
1
2
1
2
On some tractors with very positive remote hydraulic
checks, a slight increase in the reading on the
pressure gauges may occur after the tractor remote
lever is returned to neutral. This is caused by back
pressure on the opener cylinders and may be ignored.
The NET OPERATING PRESSURE on the opener
cylinders is maintained at the pressure you selected
while the tractor remote lever was held forward–not at
the “apparently increased” pressure. Reactivating the
tractor lever forward confirms this.
Cart Weight Transfer
On s/n A1025S+ planters, some of the cart weight can
be transferred to the mainframe by retraction of the
lift-assist cylinders, with a weight-transfer pin in place.
This operating mode is compatible with wing-lock,
wing-flex and hydraulic down-pressure planters.
1. Disconnect the 3-point top link.
Refer to Figure 58
2. Install the lift-assist weight-transfer pins . The pins
are stored in a plate behind the cart parallel arm
pivot weldment. Install them in the large holes at the
bottom of the rod-end lug in the frame-to-cart parallel
arms.
3. Remove the lift-assist shear bolts from the small
holes below the lift-assist rod-end lug upper pivot
pins. Store the bolts in the plates behind the cart
parallel arm pivot weldments.
4. Fully retract the lift-assist cylinders when lowering
the planter in the field.
Priority Flow Hydraulic Systems
On some tractors with load-sensing hydraulics, the
tractor remote circuit #1 is capable of taking nearly
100 percent of available hydraulic flow. Operating the
openers or markers on circuit #1 will starve the other
circuit, making one function inoperable.
To operate markers and constant opener down pressure
at the same time, connect the lift assist to circuit #2 and
the markers to circuit #3.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 56
Crushing and Sharp Object Hazards:
You may be injured if hit by a folding or unfolding marker.
Markers may fall quickly and unexpectedly if the hydraulics
fail. Never allow anyone near the planter when folding or
unfolding the markers.
2
1
Figure 59
Marker Disk Angle
11757
N
W
T
212
Marker Adjustments
There are five adjustments for markers:
• Disk Angle
Even if your row spacing rarely changes, you may
need to adjust disk angle for soil conditions and
planting speed.
• Marker Width
Once set for a specific row spacing, this only needs
periodic checking to ensure the clamp is secure.
See page 20.
• Shear Bolt Replacement
If a marker hangs up on an obstruction, a bolt at the
fold is designed to fail. Positions are provided nearby
for storage of replacement shear bolts. See page 90.
• Chain Length
Depending on marker width, you may want to adjust
the chain length to ensure the markers are off the
ground when the planter is raised. See page 90.
• Marker Speed
Once initially set by your dealer, this rarely needs
modification. See page 91.
Marker Disk Adjustment
Sharp Object Hazard:
Marker disks may be sharp. Use caution when making
adjustments in this area.
Refer to Figure 59
To change angle of cut, and the width of the mark, loosen
1
/2inch bolts holding disk assembly.
For a wider mark (W), increase the angle of the marker
with respect to the tube . For a narrower mark (N),
reduce the angle.
Tighten bolts .
The direction of travel (T) tends to drive the disk angle
to Wide. If bolts are not tight enough, or loosen over
time, the disk will slip into the Wide mark
configuration.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 57
Figure 60
Height Switch Location
29193
1
1
Figure 61
Height Switch Adjustments
25442
2
6
3
1
4
5
23456
Height Switch Adjustment
Refer to Figure 60
The 3PYP includes a sensing switch that signals the
seed monitor (and activates the meter drives), when the
planter is lowered for planting.
Although factory-preset for typical planting conditions,
Great Plains recommends adjusting this switch for your
exact field conditions and planting depth. Check the
switch seasonally thereafter, or when planting conditions
change. Also perform this adjustment if the switch is
replaced or dislodged.
The switch is located on the parallel arms connecting the
planter mainframe to the air cart.
Refer to Figure 61
1. Lower the planter to the height at which seed
delivery is to begin.
2. Loosen bolts holding switch bracket to frame.
3. Move bracket and switch up or down so switch toggle
arm makes contact with upper parallel arm .
4. Move switch/bracket down
It may be necessary to loosen the screws holding
the switch to the bracket and rotate the switch slightly
on the bracket.
If the switch is ever completely removed, be sure to
replace it with the cable exit at the bottom. If the cable
is at the top, switch operation is reversed, and
moisture will accumulate in the switch, causing
eventual switch failure.
1
/4inch. Tighten bolts.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 58
Figure 62
Fan Butterfly Valve
25267
Fan Adjustments
Recommended fan butterfly valve setting is 0.
Recommended fan speed depends on planter
configuration:
3800 rpm
3500 rpm
2008+ planters using 2008+ 82 bu. hoppers (or
older hoppers with the vent line update)
2006- planters, or any planter using bulk seed
boxes or unvented hoppers
Adjust the basic fan rate with the tractor hydraulic system
and fan rpm display on seed monitor. Do not run the fan
over 4500 rpm or under 3000 rpm.
Fans operating at too high a speed create too much air
flow causing seed to plug up the meter box. Fans
operating too slowly do not create enough air flow to
push the seed to the meters, causing the seed tube to
plug. If air system does not operate suitably with fan
speeds between 3000-4500 rpm, refer to the
troubleshooting chart, and then adjust the fan butterfly
valve.
The butterfly valve may be helpful if your tractor can
maintain a high, but irregular fan rpm. Set the rpm to
above 3500 rpm with the valve completely open (0).
Adjust the valve angle in the 20-30 range until you
achieve the desired seed flow consistency.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 59
Fertilizer Setup
Agricultural Chemical Hazard:
Some chemicals will cause serious burns, lung damage, and
death. Avoid contact with skin or eyes. Wear proper protective
equipment as required by chemical manufacturer. Avoid
prolonged breathing of chemical fumes. Wear respirator as
required by chemical manufacturer. Seek medical assistance
immediately if accident occurs. Know what to do in case of
accident.
A fertilizer distribution system is optional on the 3PYP.
The Great Plains provisioned components include:
®
• the lines to the row units (connected to Keeton
seed firmers if present),
• orifice fittings for each row
• distribution lines
• manifold
• pressure gauge
• relief valve
• inlet (1 inch female NPT) from pump system on
tractor (Refer to Figure 64 on page 61)
If installed, there are five points of fertilizer setup and/or
adjustment:
1. Pump drive connection and valves
These are separately provisioned tractor-mounted
components, and are not described in this manual.
2. Strainer setup
This is a separately provisioned tractor-mounted
component, but the mesh screen size must be
compatible with the orifice plates in the distribution
system. See this page and “Fertilizer Orifice
Plates” on page 60.
3. Relief valve setting
See “Fertilizer Relief Valve” on page 61
4. Pump drive rate
This is a separately provisioned tractor-mounted
capability. Rate setting is described in this manual,
but system operation is not.
5. Row orifice setup
See “Fertilizer Orifice Plates” on page 60
Great Plains recommends checking with your local
agronomist as soil conditions vary. Soil conditions in your
area may need less or more fertilizer than represented in
these charts. Do not exceed 12 gallons per acre in any
case.
The liquid fertilizer system is designed to operate
(ideally) between 15 and 40 psi, but in no case more than
85 psi. Several system elements affect system pressure,
and need initial setup, periodic maintenance, and
adjustment when changing seed rates.
Liquid Fertilizer Strainer
A strainer is normally supplied with the fertilizer pump
option and is plumbed between the tank(s) and the
pump.
The strainer will have been delivered with a mesh
screen. You need to check that it is an appropriate size
for the orifice plates you plan to use.
The standard orifice plates for the 3PYP are size 48.
If changing screen sizes, keep in mind the following:
• Generally, select a mesh screen the same or slightly
smaller than the orifice size.
• A substantially smaller mesh (e.g. 100) will reduce
manifold orifice plates plugging so often, but the
strainer screen will have to be cleaned more often.
• A much larger mesh (e.g. 50 or 30) will pass more
material but should only be considered when using
large manifold orifice plates.
• A plugged or partially plugged screen will starve the
pump and will result in a reduced application rate.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 60
Replacement nozzles include gaskets.
Gaskets may also be ordered separately as Great
Plains part number CP18999-EPR.
Agricultural Chemical Hazard:
Wear protective gloves when changing orifice plates and
strainer screens. Consult material manufacturer or supplier
documents for proper handling and steps to take if skin contact
occurs.
Figure 63
Fertilizer Orifice Plate
29984
Orifice Part Port Port
Size Number Diameter Area
20 832-052C 0.020 in 0.20 mm²
28* 832-056C 0.028 in
0.40 mm²
34*832-053C0.034 in 0.59 mm²
48* 832-054C 0.048 in 1.17 mm²
59 832-057C 0.059 in
1.76 mm²
80 832-055C 0.080 in 3.24 mm²
98 832-059C 0.098 in 4.87 mm²
29993* Sizes standard in many fertilizer bundles.
Check your accessories before ordering.
1
2
3
4
5
1
23143
5
Fertilizer Orifice Plates
Refer to Figure 63
To install, insert the plate inside the gasket supplied
with the nozzle . Insert the gasketed plate with the
legend side facing out the nozzle outlet (typically up).
In general, the orifice needs to be small enough to
create enough pressure in the manifold to operate the
check valves in the boom clamps, but not so much that
the system dumps product at the boom relief valve.
The recommend operating pressure is: 15 to 40 psi
Using an orifice size too large can result in unequal flow
at rows, intermittent flow, and flow stoppage at rows
where pressure falls below the 8 psi required to open the
clamp check valve. Using a size too small can cause
excess back-pressure resulting in material dumping at
the boom relief valve.
Use the same size at all active rows.
If one or two outside “zone coulter” applicators
Exception:
Alternate orifice plates are listed under “Fertilizer
Orifice Plates” on page 120.
The Seed Rate Chart book for this planter (manual part
number 401-312B) contains a table of orifice sizes in
gallons per acre.
Fertilizer Row Shut-Off
Refer to Figure 63
Unused drop lines may be shut off by replacing the
nozzle with a Great Plains 832-042C cap . Twin row
boom systems separately include caps for half the rows.
When installing a cap:
re-trace the same furrow on opposing passes, you
can halve the rate at these rows (only) by using a
smaller orifice plate (see table at right)
• It is not necessary to remove the gasketed orifice
plate from inside the clamp. The cap includes its own
gasket that seals at the end of the clamp port.
• Use a tie wrap or other line to secure the loose
nozzle and drop line tubing to the boom.
• Adjust pump and/or orifice plates for new rate and
row spacing.
Material Loss Risk:
Do not apply materials without first reviewing setup. Shutting
off rows does not change the application rate. Unless the pump
is reset, it operates at the prior rate, doubling the flow at each
nozzle. This can result in excess pressure, and material loss at
the relief valve.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 61
Figure 64
Fertilizer Relief Valve
25164
3
1
6
7
5
4
2
1
234377257
5
28416
Fertilizer Relief Valve
Refer to Figure 64
A relief valve and pressure gauge are mounted at
the fertilizer inlet connection point to the tractor, and
provides the fertilizer feed to the manifold (manifold
not shown). The relief valve protects the manifold, lines
and fittings from excessive pressure. Any product that
dumps over the relief valve will discharge from the dump
line in relative safety, rather than appearing
unpredictably at some random point in the system.
To set relief valve:
1. Unlock plastic jam nut from relief valve knob.
2. Unscrew knob clockwise (looking down) until it
loses contact with internal spring.
3. Screw knob counterclockwise two turns.
Start at this setting.
4. Observe manifold gauge and watch for relief valve
dump line discharge while operating in the field.
5. If valve is dumping product and gauge reads under
85 psi, stop tractor and turn knob clockwise
1
/4turn. Continue operating at normal field speed.
Repeat this step as needed until no product is
discharged from relief valve dump line .
6. If the pressure gauge reads above 85 psi, change to
a larger orifice. Go to step 2 and repeat.
Ground Drive Fertilizer Pump
Planters ordered without a fertilizer pump system, or
which have an older shaft-driven pump may be upgraded
to ground drive CDS-John Blue
Option Packages Part Number
3PYP JB GND DRV PSITON PMP ASM 407-422A
For operations, see the Seed Rate manual.
®
piston pump:
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 62
Figure 65
25 Series Row Unit
18287
25193
0
0
1
2
3
4
8
9
5
6
7
0
1
2345678
9
25 Series Row Units
Refer to Figure 65 (which depicts a row unit fully
populated with all optional accessories supported for use
with the 3PYP planter)
All row-unit components are unit-mounted.
The 3PYP does not support frame-mounted
components other than the row unit itself.
From front to back, a Great Plains 25 Series row unit can
include the following capabilities (some optional):
Row Unit Lock-Up: (standard, pin not shown)
In twin-row configurations, the rear row unit may be locked
up to reduce wear in single-row operations, using a pin
stored in a hole in the upper forward mount, which is
transferred to a hole below the rear end of the lower
parallel arms. See “Row Unit Lock-Up” on page 66
Parallel arms: standard
Each row unit is mounted on the planter with parallel arms
which allow each row unit to independently move up and
down while staying horizontal. See “Row Unit Down
Pressure” on page 63
Row cleaners: optional
Row cleaners clear trash from the row. Twin-row planters
support single-arm cleaners. Single-row planters support
single- or double-arm cleaners. See “Unit-Mount Cleaner
Adjustments” on page 67
Coulter: optional, choice of wheels
Coulters cut any remaining trash, and create a pre-groove
for light no-till planting. The down force needed to cut and
widen the coulter groove is supplied by the row unit. The
depth relative to the opener is set by a choice of hub
mounting holes. See “Coulter Adjustments” on page 68
Openers: standard, 2 per row unit
Openers double disks widen the coulter groove, creating
the seed bed. Setup controls depth, width and sidewall
angle. See “Row-Unit Opener Adjustments” on page 69
The depth gauge wheels also accept an optional scraper.
See “Adjusting Depth Wheel Scrapers” on page 72
Seed meter: required, choice of models/features
Meters deliver singulated or volumetric seed. See “Seed
Meter Setup and Adjustment” on page 72
Seed delivery tube: standard (not shown)
No adjustments are necessary.
Seed firmer (optional):
Keeton
Improves seed-soil contact, and provides a stable arm for a
low-rate liquid fertilizer delivery tube. See “Keeton
Firmer Adjustment” on page 78
Seed-Lok
Improves seed-soil contact. See “Seed-Lok
Lock-Up” on page 78
®
seed firmer (shown mounted)
®
firming wheel (shown in inset)
®
Seed Firmer
®
Seed
Press wheels: standard (choice of types)
These close the seed trench. See “Press Wheel
Adjustment” on page 79
Certain Machine Damage:
Do not back up with row units in the ground. To do so will
cause severe damage and row unit plugging.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 63
Figure 66
Checking Furrow
25193
{
Inspect Furrow Here
Light or no side gauge
wheel tracks
Insufficient down-force
Increase down-force
Gauge wheels compress
loose soil only
Ideal
No adjustment required
Side gauge wheels
making deep tracks
Down-force too high
Reduce down-force
Figure 67
Assessing Down-force
1
2
3
Row Unit Down Pressure
Refer to Figure 66
The ideal amount of down-force causes the side gauge
wheels to compress any loose surface soil, but not press
a trench into subsoil.
To assess down-force, operate the planter for a short
distance on typical ground (with or without seeding), and
stop. Leave the planter lowered (row units in ground).
At several row units, inspect the furrow created by the
opener discs, but prior to furrow closing by the press
wheels.
Be sure to inspect rows both in and out of tire tracks.
Refer to Figure 67
1. If the side gauge wheels are leaving no tracks, or
light tracks, increase down-force.
2. If the wheels are compressing trash and loose soil,
and leaving clear tracks right at the top of the
subsoil, down-force is probably correct and needs no
adjustment.
3. If the wheels are creating a trench into the subsoil,
down-force is too high and needs to be reduced.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 64
Figure 68
25 Series Row Unit
Spring Adjustment
25268
2
6
4
5
3
2
Figure 69
Row Unit Minimum Cam (one)
27065
3
4
Figure 70
Row Unit Maximum Cam (six)
27065
5
6
Refer to Figure 69
An adjuster cam sets down pressure individually for
each row unit. This is useful for penetrating hard soil and
planting in tire tracks. For best results always adjust
tractor tires so they are not ahead of 30 inch rows.
Cam Notch
zero (out of notch) Maintenance Only
one 345 lbs (156 kg)
two 370 lbs (168 kg)
three 400 lbs (181 kg)
four 450 lbs (204 kg)
five 500 lbs (227 kg)
six 550 lbs (249 kg)
tip Do Not Use
a. Includes both spring force and row unit weight.
Down-Force
a
Use only enough down pressure to cut the seed trench
and maintain proper soil-firming over seed. Excessive
row unit down force will lead to premature wear on row
unit components, uneven seed depth and gauge wheel
slippage (unless hydraulic down force is used).
Adjusting Down-Pressure
Refer to Figure 68 (on page 64, shown at cam setting
2),
Figure 69 and Figure 70
To adjust down pressure, use a 1
1
/8 inch (29 mm) open
end wrench or the tool stored under the walkboard.
3PYP must be unfolded for this adjustment.
1. Raise the planter. Although this adjustment can be
made with the planter lowered, the springs will be in
tension, and will require more effort. The extra force
required may also damage tools.
2. Install lift assist cylinder locks.
3. Put tractor in Park and shut it off.
4. Position wrench on the fixed nut near or slightly
forward of vertical.
5. Pull upper spring link back.
6. Move the adjustment cam to the new setting on the
spring adjust bar .
Do not set all rows higher than notch four. Using high
settings across all rows causes uneven planting.
Individual rows may be set higher if running in tire
tracks.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 65
Figure 71
Row Unit Drive Coupler
Engaged (Left) and
Disengaged (right)
26171
Figure 72
Y-Tube Open and Closed
29758
Row Unit Shut-Off
Skip-row operations, such as planting from every other
row when switching from 30 inch twin-row to 30 inch
single-row, requires shutting down unused rows.
Refer to Figure 71
Shutting off seeding at a row involves 4 to 7 steps:
1. Identify the rows to shut off.
2. Disengage row unit drive coupler.
3. Close seed flow to row at Y-tube (if present).
4. Lock up row unit to reduce wear (optional).
5. Reset marker extension (if used).
6. Reset monitor active row pattern and row spacing to
avoid nuisance alarms (always done).
7. Shut off fertilizer drop lines (Option, see Seed and
Fertilizer Rate manual 401-312B for details).
8. Identify Rows to Shut Off
On twin-row planters, openers are installed with short
and long opener mounts. If locking up unused rows of a
twin-row planter, shut off the rear (long mount) rows.
On single-row planters with mid-length mounts, any rows
may be locked up.
9. Close Y-Tubes
Refer to Figure 72
If any shut-off rows are served by a Y-tube, close the
gate for the branch to that row. Rotate the valve cap until
the indicator/handle is perpendicular to the tubes.
Closing the Y-tube prevents seed from entering an
unused hose, reducing waste and simplifying clean-out.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 66
Figure 73
25 Series Row Unit
Lock-Up Pin
25269
25118
2
3
5
4
1
123
Machine Damage Risk:
Do not pin the row unit while it is in the lowered position.
If the pin is inserted below the parallel arm, unit damage will
occur when planting begins.
Figure 74
25 Series Row Unit
Locked Up
25270
3
4
523
Row Unit Lock-Up
Alternate twin-row units (the rear units) can be pinned in
the up position to accommodate single-row spacing.
Refer to Figure 73
The lock-up pins for each rear row unit are located in a
storage hole in the row unit mount. To lock up a unit,
the unit must be raised, and the pin moved to the lock-up
hole in the row unit shank.
If you lose a pin, the replacement part number is
805-033C
1. Raise the planter. Although this adjustment can be
made with the planter lowered, the springs will be in
tension, and will require more effort. The extra force
may also damage tools.
2. Install lift assist cylinder locks. Lower parking stands.
3. Unhitch tractor. Move row mode spacer on an older
planter (see page 160).
4. Set the down pressure springs be set to the
minimum setting, per the instructions on page 63.
5. Raise the row unit high enough that the hole for the
pin is above the lower parallel arm. This can be done
in several ways, including:
a. use a hoist at the rear of the shank
b. use a jack under the shank extension
Machine Damage Risk:
Raising a row unit on a block by lowering the planter is risky.
Full lowering can easily damage components, and hydraulic
failure is a safety hazard.
Crushing and Sharp Object Hazards:
Do not attempt to lift the row unit by hand. The weight of the
unit, plus the force of the springs (even at minimum) is too
great (plus, a free hand is needed for pin insertion). Even with
multiple people lifting, hand-lifting is unsafe - there are
numerous sharp edges, and the row unit will snap down
violently if a grip is lost.
Refer to Figure 74
6. Remove the pin from the storage hole and insert
and secure it in the lock-up hole .
7. Lower row unit until lower parallel arm rests on
lock-up pin.
8. Shut off Y-tube port for the current row unit.
9. Disengage meter coupler.
10. Repeat for all rows needing lock-up.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 67
Sharp Object Hazard:
Row cleaner tines, casting edges and coulter blades are sharp.
Wear hand protection when working in this area.
Figure 75
UMRC: Cleaner Adjust
27308
3
2
1
365
Figure 76
UMC-RC: Row Cleaner Adjust
27341
6
4
5
521
32645
Unit-Mount Cleaner Adjustments
Refer to Figure 75 and Figure 76
Optional Martin row cleaners are unit-mounted, using:
UMRC: Unit-Mount Row Cleaner (stand-alone), or
UMC-RC: Unit-Mount Coulter RC (on coulter bracket,
with or without a coulter disk present).
There are two adjustments:
1. Wheel placement (forward or aft mounting hole, for
more or less aggressive cleaning), and
2. Wheel height, adjusted by a stop. Cleaner arms float.
The stop only sets the lowest position.
In UMRC mount, a pinned cross-tube on the mount
adjusts the depth. In UMC-RC (coulter) mount, a sliding
down-stop block adjusts how close to the ground the
row cleaners operate.
The row cleaner needs to be adjusted for your
conditions, crop changes, and as coulters and openers
wear. Ideally, cleaners contact only the trash, and do not
disturb the soil. If allowed to “dig”, row cleaners can
reduce seed coverage.
Suggested initial depth is tine tips at ground level.
Make the adjustment with the planter raised. Install
lift-assist cylinder locks. Also check bolt tightness prior
to each planting session, to avoid down-stop slippage.
To adjust the row cleaner:
1. Determine the height adjustment required. Measure
from the lowest tine to the ground. Determine the
desired new measurement.
2. Support most or all of the weight of the arm to
prevent injury and ease the adjustment. Loosen
bolts on UMC-RC. Remove bent pin on UMRC.
3. Support arm at desired height.
4. UMRC: Slide adjustment tube until cross-tube
contacts arm at target height. Insert bent pin in
whichever hole pair is most in alignment. Each
possible hole pairing adjusts the tine height by about
3
/4 inch (19 mm).
5. UMC-RC: Slide the down-stop on the arm :
- back toward the pivot for shallower cleaning, or
- forward toward the tines for deeper cleaning.
Tighten the bolts .
6. Check the new height measurement.
Refer to Row Cleaner manual 204-085M-A for further
information on use, adjustment and maintenance of row
cleaners.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 68
Figure 77
25 Series Unit-Mounted Coulter
29124
7
Figure 78
Coulter Blade Mounting Holes
29125
1
3
2
6
5
4
7
Coulter Adjustments
The ideal operating depth for coulters is 1/4 inch (6 mm)
above opener depth. Although they may have originally
been set to this depth, coulter (and opener) blades wear
with time, and may need adjusting.
Adjusting the coulter depth is accomplished by
re-mounting the coulter blade in one of the six mounting
holes arranged in a staggered pattern in the coulter
bracket.
Refer to Figure 77 and Figure 78
Raise planter and install cylinder locks before working on
coulters. Row unit may be fully lowered or locked up. Do
not attempt to move blade when the current or new
position causes it to contact the ground during the
adjustment. Be careful around the front end of row units.
Row clear tines and coulter blades may be sharp.
To adjust coulter depth:
1. Determine the present opener and coulter depths.
2. Note which bracket hole the coulter is presently
using.
3. Determine which new hole will position the coulter
closer to the
below. If none, don’t move it.
4. Remove the
( in Figure 77).
5. Move the blade to the new position. Insert the bolt,
and tighten on the lock washer and nut.
1
/4inch above depth. See the table
5
/8-11X4 inch bolt, lock washer and nut
Hole
Number
2 1 inch (2.5 cm) above
3
5
1 0
4
6
Depth of (new) coulter blade relative to (new)
opener blades
1
/2 inch (1.6 cm) above
1
/4 inch (6.4 mm) above
3
/8 inch (9.5 mm) below
3
/4 inch (1.9 cm) below
6. Re-adjust openers, if installed.
If a worn coulter cannot be adjusted to satisfactory
operating depth, replace coulter.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 69
Figure 79
Opener Adjustments
25118
1
2
3
1
111
Incorrect
Correct
Side Depth
Wheel
Opener
Disks
Side Depth
Wheel
Figure 80
Disk/Depth Wheel Alignment
Row-Unit Opener Adjustments
25 Series openers have three adjustments:
1. Planting/seed depth.
2. Gauge wheel/opener disk clearance.
3. Opener disk angle.
Setting Planting Depth
Refer to Figure 79
The “T” handle sets planting depth by limiting the how
high the side depth gauge wheels ride relative to the
opener disks. The position of the seed tube itself is fixed
relative to the disks, and is not adjusted.
To adjust seed depth, pull the “T” handle up and back,
move it forward or aft, and set it back in a different pair of
holes in the scale.
• The shallower planting, move the “T” handle
forward.
• For deeper planting, move the “T” handle back.
Changing planting depth may also require changing disk
angle.
Disk Angle and Side Depth Wheels
Refer to Figure 80
Disk angle affects seed groove angle/width, and may
need to be narrowed to achieve the desired seed depth
in some conditions.
Disk-to-wheel angle and clearance ideally has the wheel
just touching the disk when the wheel is raised to
planting depth (is up against the stop set by the “T”
handle). The goal is to have both disks and wheels turn
freely, but keep soil and trash from getting between them.
These two adjustments interact with each other.
Changing one requires at least checking the other.
In addition to changing the disk angle due to changing
depth or new field conditions, these two settings may
need attention over time as the disk and wheels wear
from normal use. This adjustment will also need to be
made if any opener components are replaced.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 70
Figure 81
Opener-Depth Wheel Contact
22531
Contact Within this Area
1
Figure 82
Disk/Depth Wheel Adjustment
22524
22525
Starting Point
1
4
3
2
1
4
2341112
Adjusting Disk Angle & Side Depth Wheels
Refer to Figure 81
For 2 inch planting depth, adjust side depth wheel angle
so wheels contact row unit disks at the bottom of wheel.
Check with row units in soil so wheels are held up.
At the same time, keep side gauge wheels close to
opener disks so openers do not plug with soil or trash.
Wheels should be out far enough so disks and wheels
turn freely.
Refer to Figure 82
To adjust side gauge wheels:
1. Raise planter slightly removing weight from side
gauge wheels.
2. Loosen hex-head bolt . Move wheel and arm out
on O-ring bushing.
3. Loosen pivot bolt . Turn hex adjuster so indicator
notch is at 5 o’clock to 7 o’clock.
Use this as the starting point for adjustment.
4. Move wheel arm in so side gauge wheel contacts
row unit disk. Tighten hex-head bolt to clamp arm
around bushing and shank.
5. Check wheel-to-disk contact at 2 inch planting depth.
Lift wheel 2 inch and release. When let go, wheel
should fall freely.
• If wheel does not contact disk at bottom to area
where blade leaves contact with soil, move hex
adjuster until wheel is angled for proper contact with
disk.
• If wheel does not fall freely, loosen hex-head bolt
and slide wheel arm out just until wheel and arm
move freely. Tighten hex-head bolt according to
grade:
1
/2inch Grade 5 bolt on 25 series, 75 foot-pounds.
1
/2inch Grade 8 bolt on 25 series, 110 foot-pounds.
Use “Torque Values Chart” on page 127 for
reference.
6. Keep turning hex adjuster and moving wheel arm
until the wheel is adjusted properly. When satisfied,
tighten pivot bolt to 110 foot-pounds.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 71
1
Figure 83
Opener Disc Contact Region
26127
2
1
Figure 84
Opener Disc Spacers
26128
6
5
3
4
7
8
2
3
4
5657856
Row-Unit Opener Disk Adjustments
Opener Disc Contact Region
Refer to Figure 83
Opener disc angle and stagger is not adjustable, but
disc-to-disc spacing is, and may need attention as discs
experience normal wear. Spacers will need to be reset
when blades are replaced.
The ideal spacing causes the blades to be in contact for
about one inch . If you insert two pieces of paper
between the blades, they should slide to within zero
(touching) to 1.5 inch (3.8 cm) of each other. If zero, the
gap between the blades should not be significantly
greater than the thickness of two sheets of paper.
If the contact region is significantly larger or there is a
large gap, it needs to be adjusted by moving one or more
spacer washers.
Adjusting Disc Contact
Refer to Figure 83 and Figure 84
1. Raise the planter and install lift cylinder locks.
2. Remove the side gauge wheels on the row unit in
need of adjustment.
3. Remove the bolt retaining the opener disc on
one side. Carefully remove the disc. Do not lose the
hub components and spacer washers , . Make
note of how many spacer washers are between
the disk and the nut bar .
When the bolt is fully removed from the disk, a dust
cap or hold-down bracket will be loose.
4. To reduce the spacing between the discs (the normal
case), move one spacer washer from the inside to
the outside of the disc. Do not discard any
spacers. They will be moved to the inside upon
eventual replacement of a completely worn out
blade.
5. Re-assemble and check disk contact.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 72
Figure 85
Gauge Wheel Scraper
25273
1
4
3
2
123
23414
1
Figure 86
Seed Hose Retaining Ring
22883
The 3PYP supports
• Great Plains Singulator Plus™ meters and
• Finger-pickup meters.
The 3PYP does not support feeder cups. Use a
Singulator Plus™ meter with specific wheels for
volumetric applications.
Adjusting Depth Wheel Scrapers
Refer to Figure 81
Scrapers are optional, and may be useful in moist or
sticky soils that tend to accumulate on gauge wheels and
reduce intended planting depth.
To adjust scrapers:
1. Loosen nut .
2. Slide scraper toward gauge wheel until scraper
touches tire.
3. Slide scraper away from wheel leaving a
1
/8inch (3.2 mm) gap at .
4. Rotate scraper left and right around bolt, making
sure it cannot touch tire if bumped in field. If it can
touch tire, back scraper away from wheel until it
cannot.
5. Center scraper angle on bolt until gap is
constant.
6. Tighten nut .
Seed Meter Setup and Adjustment
Your 3PYP was originally supplied with a specific seed
meter type and internal components optimized for a
particular crop. Depending on the meter type and
configuration, there may be adjustments available.
You can also entirely change the meter, or swap internal
components, as your crop mix changes. This manual
section assumes that you need to install new meters,
then describes their internal configuration, and finally any
adjustments.
Meter Removal
1. Clean out the meter. See “Meter Removal” on
page 72.
Refer to Figure 86
2. Slide the retaining ring up on the seed hose, and
remove the seed hose.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 73
Figure 87
Lower Meter Latch
22911
Figure 88
Upper Meter Latch
22911
Figure 89
Singulator Meter Removal
22912
Figure 90
Inspect Meter Drive
21917
1
3
2
123
Refer to Figure 87
3. Release the lower latch.
Refer to Figure 88
4. Release the upper latch and swing the meter mount
away from the meter.
Refer to Figure 89
5. Lift up, then back, and remove the meter.
Refer to Figure 90
6. While the meter is removed, take time to inspect the
meter drive chain , idlers and drive sprocket ,
and perhaps perform the periodic chain lubrication.
Idlers are spring-loaded, so no slack adjustment is
required.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 74
Figure 91
Singulator Plus™ Wheel Retainer
22911
Figure 92
Pry Meter Wheel
22913
Figure 93
Remove Wheel
25274
Figure 94
Inspect Meter
22884
Singulator Plus™ Meter Wheel
Replacement
Choose the correct seed meter wheel for the type of
seed you will be using. Be sure to use the same wheel
type on all meters.
25 Series Meter Wheels Not Interchangeable:
Seed meter wheels for the 25 Series row units are made of a
green color material and are not interchangeable with the
other Great Plains seed meter wheels, discs and plates for
other machines. Use only green wheels in 25 Series row units.
1. Clean out meter. For more information, see “Meter
Removal” on page 72
Refer to Figure 91
2. Push in spring-loaded wheel retainer and make
1
/4turn. Pull off wheel retainer and spring.
Refer to Figure 92
3. Pry the seed meter wheel out about
the tool stored under the walkboard, and spin
backward to clean out seeds from top pockets.
1
/4 inch using
Refer to Figure 93
4. Remove seed meter wheel.
Refer to Figure 94
With the seed meter wheel removed, you may want to
check the meter for internal damage or trash.
Some wear on top edge of slide is normal. Excess
wear is cause for replacement.
5. When changing crops be sure to clean out air
system before installing new meters or wheels. See
“Cleaning Out Air System” on page 88
6. Place new wheel on meter wheel shaft. Seat wheel
fully on cross-pin.
7. Replace spring-loaded wheel retainer. Make
1
/4turn
to seat cross-pin in shallow groove of retainer.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 75
Figure 95
Install Meter
25275
3
2
1
1
2
3
Figure 96
Upper Meter Latch
21922
Meter Installation
Installation is the reverse of the removal process, with
two steps omitted.
Refer to Figure 95
1. Insert the meter.
Insert the top meter tab (with the hook).
Align the meter base with the latch plate ears.
Insert the bottom meter tab.
Mind the lower latch, as it tends to swing under the
meter base and block mating with the latch plate.
Refer to Figure 88 on page 73
2. Engage the upper latch.
Refer to Figure 87 on page 73
3. Engage the lower latch, and swing the mounting
plate into engagement with the meter. it may be
necessary to spin the drive coupler to ease this.
Refer to Figure 86 on page 72
4. Slide the seed hose over the meter inlet tube, and
then slide the retaining ring down the seed hose.
Refer to Figure 96
5. Release the upper latch.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 76
Figure 97
Finger Meter Brush Lever
25276
5
1
4
3
2
L
L
Bag Weight Seeds Per Brush Seeds Per Bag Weight
(80,000 seeds) Pound Setting Kilogram (80,000 seeds)
Rounds
65 lbs 1230 or less 1 2710 or less 29.5 kg
65 to 55 lbs 1230 to 1450 2 2710 to 3195 29.5 to 24.9 kg
55 to 45 lbs 1450 to 1780 33195 to 3925 24.9 to 20.4 kg
45 to 35 lbs 1780 to 2300 4 3925 to 5070 20.4 to 15.9 kg
35 lbs 2300 or more 5 5070 or more 15.9 kg
Flats
45 lbs 1780 or less 1 3925 or less 20.4 kg
45 to 35 lbs 178
0 to 2300 2 3925 to 5070 20.4 to 15.9 kg
35 lbs 2300 or more 3 5070 or more 15.9 kg
29633
Finger Meter Adjustments
The finger pick-up meter has an adjustable brush, and
alternate inserts are available for the backing plate. The
brush has been pre-set to the optimum setting for most
seed sizes. The factory-installed insert is the “A” insert.
Optimum planting speed is 4
1
/2to 5 miles per hour
(7.2-8 km/h). Excess speed causes poor spacing
Finger Meter Brush Adjustment
The brush reduces or eliminates “doubles” (delivering
two seeds per finger), but if set too aggressively can
cause “skips” (delivering no seed on some fingers). As
needed, adjust for minimal doubles and skips.
These instructions describe the current finger pickup
meter shipped with new Great Plains planters, which
has an integrated adjustment lever for the brush. If
you have added pre-existing finger meters after
purchase, there is some chance that you may have
the previous model meter, adjusted by screwdriver
rather than lever. If so, rely on counting detents to
determine the setting. Not all have 9 detents.
Refer to Figure 97
The adjustable brush provides additional flexibility to
accommodate a wide range of seed sizes. Use lever (L)
to gently rotate the brush into position.
performance due to seed tube bounce, and may also
cause improper depth control due to row unit bounce.
Always pay attention to your planter monitor. Compare
actual seed usage to your estimates.
Fine-tune your planter by thoroughly checking all key
components including: seed tubes, chains, sprockets,
tire pressure, seed monitor, double disk openers, gauge
wheels, seed firmer, closing wheels, parallel arms, and
the row unit itself.
The settings range from 1 to 5 with detents at each half
step, for a total of 9 detents. The factory default setting is
1
2
/2. Although the numbers are molded into the meter
housing, only “1” and “5” may be visible. To ensure
consistency, rotate the lever fully counter-clockwise
(1), and count detents as you advance it to the desired
Use the general guidelines in the table at right to adjust
the brush position to your seed size and shape. The
numbers listed correspond to the numbers printed on the
outer housing of your meter. If there is a decal on your
meter, its units are seed size in pounds per 80,000 seed
bag.
setting.
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Page 81
3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 77
Figure 98
Finger Meter Insert
22908
2
1
3
2
Oil Seed Size Confection Seed
#4 #3 #2
Meter Component
(12-finger sunflower) (12-finger sunflower) (12-finger corn)
(Insert C) (Insert C) (Insert A)
c. These components are included in the standard 890-856C Corn meter. 34573
s. These components are included in the standard 890-912C Sunflower meter, and the 403-659A Conversion Kit.
(long, narrow, XL)
~6600 seeds/kg
(~3000 seeds/pound)
~16500 seeds/kg
(~7500 seeds/pound)
~14300 seeds/kg
(~6500 seeds/pound)
~12100 seeds/kg
(~5500 seeds/pound)
Finger Set
343067
s
343067
s
343029
c
Not
recommended
for XL
confection
seed
Backing Plate
342108
s
342108
s
342110
c
Brush Block
343091
s
343091
s
343052
c
(brushless
block)
(brushless
block)
(adjustable
brush block)
Finger Meter Inserts
Refer to Figure 98
The backing plate is equipped with an “A” insert for
Corn, and a “C” insert for Sunflower. In tests, these
inserts provide the best performance in most seed sizes.
However, there are alternate inserts that can be used.
Before changing to a different insert, please consult with
a Great Plains service representative for a
recommendation.
The insert type is molded into the back. Changing inserts
requires meter disassembly.
Meter Reliability Risk:
Be cautious in using seed treatments, additives, and other
chemicals when possible. They can cause meter performance
problems and premature wear. If graphite is used, use
Precision Planting
®
planting graphite or Great Plains
graphite, which is less abrasive. Generally, seeds treated with
Maxi, Captan, and similar coatings benefit from graphite.
Always store meters in a dry, secure place. Moisture,
temperature, nest-building insects and rodents can create
problems. Always pay attention to your seed monitor and
operating manual. Monitor the amount of seed you are
planting compared to expectations. Investigate abnormalities!
Sunflower Meter Configurations
Review the finger pickup meter configuration, based on
the seed size. See chart below. See “Exchanging
Finger Sets” on page 96 for component removal and
installation instructions.
The standard Sunflower configuration is suitable for
#4 and #3 seed sizes. Larger seeds may require the
Corn meter configuration. Using a finger pickup meter for
Confection seeds is not recommended.
Finger Pickup Configurations for Sunflower
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 78
28420
s
Sharp Object Hazard:
Row unit disk blades may be sharp. Use caution when making
adjustments in this area. To adjust the Keeton
®
seed firmer,
lower the planter until the disks of the row units are resting on
the ground.
Figure 99
Keeton
®
Seed Firmer
20327
s
Sprocket Indexing (Stagger)
(Applies to both ground and hydraulic drive)
If you are planting:
• finger-metered,
• twin-row crops,
• at seed interval spacings above 6
1
/2 inches,
you can synchronize each pair of adjacent meters in a
twin row so that you achieve the maximum seed-to-seed
spacing between the units of the pair.
Refer to the Seed Rate manual for details.
Seed Firmer Adjustments
25 Series row units include a standard seed flap, and
accept one of two optional seed firmers.
Keeton
The optional Keeton
polymer shape that slides down the seed furrow. It traps
seeds as they exit the seed tube and firms them into the
bottom of the “V”.
Refer to Figure 99
The firmer is provided with a preset tension which is
recommended for using the first year. The tension
screw can be tightened in subsequent years
according to your needs. Firmers should provide just
enough tension to push seeds to the bottom of the
trench.
Measure the distance from the ground to the head of the
tension screw. This distance should be 4 to 4
not, loosen the bolts in the mounting bracket and select
different holes until the proper measurement is attained.
Seed-Lok
Optional Seed-Lok
seed-to-soil contact. The wheels are spring loaded and
do not require adjusting. In some wet and sticky
conditions the wheels may accumulate soil. To avoid associated problems, you can lock-up the firmers.
®
Seed Firmer Adjustment
®
Seed Firmer is an engineered
®
Seed Firmer Lock-Up
®
firming wheels provide additional
1
/2 inches If
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Page 83
3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 79
Figure 100
Seed-Lok
®
Lock-Up
31543
1
4
2
3
5
6
12314561452
223
Figure 101
Press Wheel Adjustments
25118
1
2
3
Refer to Figure 100 (which depicts a row unit with
discs, side depth wheels/arms and press wheels
removed for illustrative purposes - removal is not
necessary for lock/unlock)
To lock up Seed-Lok
1. Raise planter. Insert lift assist cylinder locks.
2. Lift Seed-Lok
free to rotate.
3. Rotate lever stop to side/idle position . Release
lock-up handle .
4. Push up on Seed-Lok
latches up .
To release a locked-up Seed-Lok
1. Insert a
handle . Alternatively, lift up on the wheel .
2. Rotate the handle clockwise (handle arm up) until
the Seed-Lok
and falls free.
3. While holding the handle up, rotate the raised portion
of the lever stop under both sides of the handle
at the arm end. Remove the tool.
Engage the lever stop under the handle when
Seed-Lok
obstruction could cause unintended lock-up.
1
/4 in. tool drive tip in the tool hole of the
®
®
wheels:
®
lock-up handle until lever stop is
®
wheel until wheel arm
®
:
®
wheel releases at the latch point
is in use. If left disengaged , a furrow
Press Wheel Adjustment
The press wheels close the furrow which gently presses
the soil over the seed to ensure good seed-to-soil
contact for even emergence.
To provide consistent seed firming, the press wheels are
free to move downward from their normal operating
position. This system maintains pressing action even if
the row unit arm is lifted when the disks encounter
obstructions.
Refer to Figure 101, 102 and 103
There are three adjustments available on the press
wheel assembly and a fourth option on press wheel
assemblies with cast wheels:
1. Down pressure (shown at maximum)
2. Wheel stagger (shown staggered)
3. Centering (see Figure 103 on page 80)
4. Cast Wheel Plow Angle (see Figure 104 on page 81)
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 80
Figure 102
Press Wheel Force & Stagger
22907
1
2
5
9
8
7
6
3
115679892
Figure 103
Press Wheel Centering
25277
b
b
a
c
abcbb
Press Wheel Down Pressure
Handle sets down pressure, which may need
adjustment for different soil types and field conditions.
• Relax the handle forward (in the direction of travel)
for decreased down pressure.
• Pull the handle back for increased down pressure.
Higher press wheel down pressures reduce the down
force on the main row unit shank components, such
as the openers. High press wheel settings may
require an increase in overall row unit down force. See
page 63.
Press Wheel Stagger
The factory stagger setting has been found optimal for
residue flow. If your conditions appear to require even
press wheels, you might try one row before reconfiguring
the entire planter. To change the stagger:
1. Raise the planter and install the lift assist cylinder
locks. See “Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up” on
page 26
2. Remove the bolt , nut and lock-washer for the
left press wheel .
3. Move the spacer and wheel to the forward of
the two mounting holes at .
4. Re-install the bolt, lock washer and nut. Tighten.
Press Wheel Centering
If one press wheel is running in the seed trench, or the
wheels are not centered over the trench, the angle of
the press wheel assembly can be adjusted as follows:
1. Determine how far, and in which direction, the press
wheel assembly needs to move to center the wheels.
2. Raise planter and install lift assist cylinder locks. See
“Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up” on page 26
3. Pick some reference points on the unit to be adjusted
and an adjacent row unit. Measure the distance
between them.
4. Loosen the rear
Do not loosen the two bolts forward of the hex-head
bolts. One of the forward bolts is square-head. The
other may be hex or square.
5. Turn the hex head cam under the forward hex
head bolt , and obtain the new distance between
the reference points.
6. Tighten both hex head bolts .
1
/2 inch hex-head bolts .
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Page 85
3PYP Table of Contents Index Adjustments 81
Figure 104
Press Wheel Plow Angle Setting
34011
1
8
7
6
5
3
4
2
9
123
945677845
6
Press Wheel Assembly with Cast Wheels
Tight soil may require the need to drag/plow the trench
closed. The factory setting on press wheel assemblies
with cast wheels is 4 (maximum plow). If the conditions
in your region appear to require less plow, there are two
additional settings: 2 (less plow) and 0 (no plow). To
change the plow setting:
Refer to Figure 104
1. Raise planter and install lift assist cylinder locks. See
“Lift Assist Cylinder Lock-Up” on page 26.
2. Remove the bolt , lock-washer and spacers
for the press wheel .
3. Remove bolt , flat washer and hex nut for
casting .
4. Place a
casting. Rotate casting until the desired angle setting
(4, 2 or 0) hole lines up with a hole on the press
wheel mount weldment (only one set of holes will
line up for each setting).
5. With holes lined up replace casting bolt and flat
washer . Secure with hex nut .
6. Reinstall press wheel.
If press wheel adjustments do not provide satisfactory
furrow closing, your conditions may require alternate
press wheels. A variety of wheel assemblies are
available. Consult your Great Plains dealer.
3
/4inch open end wrench on tab of
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Page 86
3PYP Table of Contents Index 82
Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting
Problem Cause Solution
Planting too
much
Planting too
little
Incorrect seed rate. Check seed rate information in the seed monitor manual.
Actual field size is different. Verify field size.
Excessive overlap.
Irregular shaped field.
Incorrect tire size or air pressure. Correct tire size and air pressure, page 126.
Improper sprocket. Check sprockets
Improper gap on speed sensor.
Meter wheel or finger pickup has more cells
than indicated on seed rate chart.
Incorrect seed rate. Check seed rate information.
Excessive field speed. Reduce field speed.
Seed size and weight may vary. Adjust seed rate handle.
Incorrect tire size or air pressure. Correct tire size and air pressure, page 126.
Actual field size is different. Verify field size.
Excessive gaps between planter passes. Adjust marker, page 56.
Plugged row-unit seed tube. Lift planter, expose bottom of seed tube and clean out.
Thrown or worn drive chains Check drive chains.
Worn sprockets and/or chain idlers. Replace sprockets and/or chain idlers.
Improper sprocket. Check sprockets
Adjust marker, page 56.
1
Check speed sensor on planter for
wheel. Improper gap can cause erratic speed signal causing
monitor to falsely report improper planting rate. Monitor may also
falsely report a low rate on soybeans by as much as 5 percent
due to difficulty in counting all of the seeds.
Charts are based on either 6 finger or 12 finger meters or
various wheel counts.
/16inch to 1/8inch gap from
Check speed sensor on planter for 1/16 inch to 1/8inch gap from
Improper gap on speed sensor.
Meter wheel or finger pickup has fewer cells
than indicated on seed rate chart.
2018-07-24 Table of Contents Index 401-312M
wheel. Improper gap can cause erratic speed signal causing
monitor to falsely report improper planting rate. Monitor may also
falsely report a low rate on soybeans by as much as 5 percent
due to difficulty in counting all of the seeds.
Charts are based on either 6 finger or 12 finger meters or
various wheel counts.
Page 87
3PYP Table of Contents Index Troubleshooting 83
Problem Cause Solution
Uneven seed
spacing.
Uneven seed
depth
Hydraulic meter drive motor rpm too low for
reliable control by proportional valve.
2. Use a seed wheel with lower cell count.
Switch from 12 finger meters to 6 finger meters.
Excessive field speed. Reduce field speed.
Unclean seed. Use clean seed.
Seed-Lok® plugging. Lock up Seed-Lok®, page 78.
1. Increase field speed.
Row-unit disks not turning.
Plugged row-unit seed tube. Lift up planter, expose bottom of seed tube and clean out.
Worn/rusted sprockets and/or chain idler. Check and replace any worn/rusted sprockets or chain idlers.
Partially plugged row-unit seed tube. Lift up planter, expose bottom of seed tube and clean out.
Lack of proper seed lubrication on seed. Refer to Seed Lubricant, page 121.
Use of excessively sticky or wet seed
treatment.
Inadequate contact wheel spring pressure. Check for correct tire air pressure, page 126.
Air pressure in contact wheel incorrect. Check for correct tire air pressure, page 126.
Excessive field speed. Reduce field speed.
Planting conditions too wet. Wait until drier weather.
Incorrect coulter depth setting. See coulter manual.
Excessive or improper row unit down
pressure spring setting.
Damaged seed tubes. Check seed tubes for damage.
See “Row-unit disks not turning freely.” in this Troubleshooting
chart.
Check your treatment.
See 25 Series row-units, page 64.
Row-unit disks
not turning
freely.
Press wheels
not
compacting
the soil as
desired.
Excessive
seed cracking.
Seed-Lok® building up with dirt. Lock up Seed-Lok®, page 78.
Row-unit not penetrating low spots. Adjust row-unit, page 64.
Rough planting conditions. Rework the field.
Seed firmer not in place and set to correct
tension.
Row-unit plugged with dirt. Clean row-unit.
Planting conditions too wet. Wait until drier weather.
Seed-Lok® is plugging row-unit. Lock up Seed-Lok®, page 78.
Failed disk bearings. Replace disk bearings.
Bent or twisted row-unit frame. Replace row-unit frame.
Partially plugged row-unit seed tube. Lift up planter, expose bottom of seed tube and clean out.
Too wet or cloddy. Wait until drier weather or rework ground.
Use of incorrectly shaped tire for your
conditions.
Incorrect press wheel depth. Reset press wheel depth, page 79.
Excessive field speed. Reduce field speed.
Unclean seed. Use clean seed.
Damaged, old or dry seed. Use clean, new seed.
Refer to Keeton® Seed Firmer, page 78.
Wedge shaped wheels work best on narrow spacings and in wet
conditions. Round edge wheels work best in wider row spacings
and drier conditions.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Troubleshooting 84
Problem Cause Solution
Press wheel or
row-units
plugging
Planting conditions too wet. Wait until drier weather.
Too much pressure on row-units. Reduce down pressure on row-units.
Coulters set too deep, bring up excess dirt
and moisture.
Planter not set to run level from front to
rear, carrying enough weight on gauge
wheels to prevent “nosing over”, or set too
low on rear caster eyebolts allowing it to run
“nose high”.
Backed up with planter in the ground. Clean out and check for damage.
Failed disk bearings. Replace disk bearings.
Disk blades worn. Replace disk blades.
Scraper worn or damaged. Replace scraper.
Check coulter adjustment.
Check see “Frame Height and Leveling” on page 18
Air lines
plugging
between air
Fan too slow. Speed up fan.
box and Y
splitters
Seed blowing
out of pro-box
door area
Air line plug
between
Y-tube & meter
Air lines
plugging
above air box
at fold area
Hydraulic
marker
functioning
improperly
Marker disk
does not mark
Fan too fast. Slow down fan.
Improper air hose routing.
Fan too slow. Speed up fan.
Improper air hose routing.
Air or oil leaks in hose fittings or
connections.
Low tractor hydraulic oil level. Check tractor hydraulic oil level.
Loose or missing bolts or fasteners. Check all bolts and fasteners.
Needle valve plugged.
Needle valve(s) in sequence valve plugged.
Wing Fold Switch ON Turn Wing Fold switch OFF
Marker folding linkage does not have
enough slack to allow marker disk to drop
into field depressions.
With machine folded the air lines should be tight. With it unfolded
they should form a gentle horizontal “S” shape through the
holders with no big sags.
With machine folded the air lines should be tight. With it unfolded
they should form a gentle horizontal “S” shape through the
holders with no big sags.
Check all hose fittings and connections for air or oil leaks.
Open needle valve, cycle markers slowly and reset needle valve,
refer to page 56.
Open needle valves, cycle markers slowly and reset needle
valves, refer to page 56.
Maximum down float should be limited by the slot at the rod end
of the marker cylinder, refer to page 56.
Reverse marker disk to pull or throw dirt.
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Page 89
3PYP Table of Contents Index Troubleshooting 85
Airbox Troubleshooting
Problem Cause Fix
Single row doesn’t fill or keep up with
other rows.
Both rows on one meter outlet low or
not keeping up with other rows.
This is more likely to occur on
end outlets.
Multiple rows fail for lack of seed.
Single or multiple hoses plugging just
ahead of airbox.
All rows fail.
1, 2, 3, or more outlets fail.
Y-tube is bent/angled off feed pipe.
Blockage in air slot in top of airbox.
Bad hose routing between delivery hose
and airbox on wing.
Fan speed too high/too low. Check/adjust fan speed.
Out of seed. Add seed.
Fan speed too high/too low. Check/adjust fan speed.
Possible air leak.
Lack of seed. Add seed.
Fan speed too high.
Loosen and rotate pipe so the bend is straight
down and Y-tube is not pointing to front or rear
of air pipe.
Clear by using a long slim tool and taking hose
off hose outlet or clean-out door.
May be necessary to take top off
airbox to clear debris from slot.
Correct hose routing.
Check for air leak downstream between box
and top of meter.
Adjust fan speed.
Extremely high populations may require slightly
reduced field speed.
Outlets can be side-by-side or
random. Plugging may also
move from one outlet to
another.
Little or no seed to many rows, with
heavily treated seed.
Foreign matter in seed chamber in
bottom of airbox.
Seed treatment sticky. Add talc to seed to dry out seed treatment.
Clean out seed chamber.
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Page 90
3PYP Table of Contents Index Troubleshooting 86
Code Diagnostic Corrective Action
1 - 1 Float valve HS short to battery
1 - 1 Float valve LS short to battery
1 - 2 Float valve HS short to ground
1 - 2 Float valve LS short to ground
1 - 3 Float valve open circuit
2 - 1 ST1 valve HS short to battery
2 - 1 ST1 valve LS short to battery
2 - 2 ST1 valve HS short to ground
2 - 2 ST1 valve LS short to grou
nd
2 - 3ST1 valve open circuit
3 - 1 ST2 valve HS short to battery
3 - 1 ST2 valve LS short to battery
3 - 2 ST2 valve HS short to ground
3 - 2 ST2 valve LS short to ground
3 - 3ST2 valve open circuit
5 - 1 Tractor sensor short to ground
5 - 2 Tractor sensor open circuit ECU not detecting tractor sensor. Use same steps as for 5 - 1.
6 - 1 C
aster sensor short to ground Check caster wheel sensor, using same steps as for 5 - 1.
6 - 2 Caster sensor open circuit ECU not detecting caster sensor. Use same steps as for 5 - 1.
8 - 1 ECU low voltage
29894
Check float valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting an unexpected voltage in the circuit.
Check float valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting a short to ground.
Check float valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is failing to detect presence of coil - no circuit continuity.
Check ST-1 valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting an unexpected voltage in the circuit.
Check ST-1 valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting a short to ground.
Check ST-1 valve coil
and cable to ECU.
ECU is failing to detect presence of coil - no circuit continuity.
Check ST-2 valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting an unexpected voltage in the circuit.
Check ST-2 valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is detecting a short to ground.
Check ST-2 valve coil and cable to ECU.
ECU is failing to detect presence of coil - no circuit continuity.
Check tractor wheel sensor for:
A. travel limits of sensor.
B. cable to ECU
C. function of sensor
Check tra
ctor voltage above 10Vdc.
Check connections to ECU. Check harnesses and switchbox connections.
Steering Error Flash Codes
Failure and errors detected by the self-diagnostics in the
steering ECU are presented to the operator as a series
of flashes of the Power LED.
There are 2 to 12 flashes, interrupted by a short pause.
Multiple errors are flashed in rotation, with a long pause
between each error code. A maximum of five error states
are reported in any single rotation.
Any of these errors causes the ECU to default the
hydraulic steering to “float”.
Certain Machine Damage:
Do not back up if ANY of these errors occurs.
Steering is disabled.
The wheels cannot fully caster and machine damage will
result. If the problem cannot be corrected in the field, drive
forward to remove the planter from the field.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index 87
OFF
Maintenance and Lubrication
Maintenance
Proper servicing and maintenance is the key to long
implement life. With careful and systematic inspection,
you can avoid costly maintenance, downtime, and repair.
Always turn off and remove the tractor key before making
any adjustments or performing any maintenance.
Crushing Hazard:
You may be severely injured or killed by being crushed under
the falling implement. Always have transport locks in place
and frame sufficiently blocked up when working on implement.
High Pressure Fluid Hazard:
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient pressure to
penetrate the skin. Check all hydraulic lines and fittings before
applying pressure. Fluid escaping from a very small hole can
be almost invisible. Use paper or cardboard, not body parts,
and wear heavy gloves to check for suspected leaks. If an
accident occurs, seek immediate medical assistance from a
physician familiar with this type of injury.
1. After using your planter for several hours, check all
bolts to be sure they are tight.
2. Remove excess slack from chains. Clean and use
chain lube on all roller chains as needed.
3. Maintain proper air pressure in planter tires.
4. Keep disk scrapers properly adjusted.
5. Clean planter on a regular basis. Regular and
thorough cleaning will lengthen equipment life and
reduce maintenance and repair.
6. Lubricate areas listed under “Lubrication” on
page 109.
7. Replace any worn, damaged, or illegible safety
labels by obtaining new labels from your Great
Plains dealer.
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Page 92
3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 88
Figure 105
Cleaning: Y-Tubes
22843
Figure 106
Disconnect Seed Tube
22883
Figure 107
Singulating Clean-out Door
22885
Figure 108
Finger Meter Clean-out Door
21920
Seed Clean-Out
Cleaning Out Air System
1. Shut off sliding door at bottom of seed box or bean
hopper.
2. Place a pan or tarp under the manifold to catch the
seed.
3. Open manifold door to empty seed from manifold.
If needed, additional access doors are provided.
4. Shut door under manifold.
Refer to Figure 105
5. Close all Y-tubes.
6. If seed meters were cleaned out first, leave the
hoses disconnected at the meters.
7. Turn on the air fan and let it run.
8. Start at one end of planter and place a bucket under
the hose or meter to catch the seed. If hose is
connected, open clean-out door.
9. Open the Y-tube gate feeding that meter. Let the air
blow seed out. Keep the meter open for a couple of
minutes after the seed stops blowing out.
10. Close the Y-tube gate feeding that meter. Close the
meter clean out door.
11. Repeat procedure on the next meter in line. Continue
with this procedure until you have reached the
opposite end of the planter.
Cleaning Out Meters
Refer to Figure 106
1. Place a bucket or pan under meter to catch any seed
during clean-out.
2. Slide the retaining ring up and remove seed hose.
Singulating Meter
Refer to Figure 107
3. Pull clean-out door away from the opening and allow
seed to fall.
4. Remove the seed meter wheel for thorough cleaning.
Refer to “Seed Meter Setup and Adjustment” on
page 72 for more information.
Finger Pickup Meter
Refer to Figure 108
5. Pull clean-out door away from the opening and allow
seed to fall.
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Page 93
3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 89
Figure 109
Residue in Air Box Plenum
36443
36442
2
1
2
1
Flushing the airbox with water is not recommended.
If done, operate the fan for an extended period to
completely remove any moisture prior to storage or
field operations.
Figure 110
Airbox Section View LH
36441
1
2
5
4
3
4
234
5
Air Box Residue Clean-Out
Planting in extremely dusty conditions, particularly dusty
and humid conditions, or otherwise sticky soils, can lead
to air residue build-up inside the airbox. This residue can
cause seed delivery blockages.
Refer to Figure 109 and Figure 110 (Figure 109
depicts a partially and a completely plugged agitation
port, and build-up in the RH plenum chamber)
Whenever opening the airbox clean-out door , inspect
the agitation ports . If any are partially or completely
blocked, follow the clean-out instructions on this page.
Seasonally, remove the inspection ports on each of the
airbox, and inspect plenum chambers 1 (LH) and
16 (RH). If any build-up is observed, follow the more
comprehensive inspection steps and clean-out
instructions on this page.
1. Spot the planter at a suitable location for clean-out
and follow the parking instructions (page 46).
2. If seed is loaded, close the slide gate for the hopper
or bulk seed box (page 36).
3. Set out a tarp for recovery of any expected seed still
in the airbox. Open the airbox clean-out door .
4. Remove the inspection port covers from each end of
the airbox (not shown in figures).
5. Use an indelible marker to identify the hoses on seed
hose ports 1 through 16. Disconnect the clamps
and hoses.
Further disassembly of the airbox is not
recommended, as joints are sealed with silicone
adhesive, and would need to be cleaned and
resealed.
6. Inspect the agitation ports . Break up any build-up.
Use a hooked tool or wire to pull smaller fragments
down through the ports. For larger fragments, reach
in through the inspection ports or vacuum them out
via those ports.
7. Inspect the entire plenum area for build-up. Break
up any deposits. Vacuum them out through the
inspection ports.
8. From the seed hose ports , inspect the seed air
ports . Break up any deposits. Vacuum out from
clean-out door.
9. With all ports and doors still open, operate the
planter fan to blow up any remaining loose residues.
10. Reconnect the seed hoses. Reinstall the inspection
port doors. Close the clean-out door.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 90
Figure 111
Marker Shear Bolt
25263
2
1
122
Figure 112
Marker Shear Bolt Storage
25264
3
1
3
A chain length too short or too long can result in marker
damage.
Figure 113
Marker Chain Slack
25266
Marker Maintenance
Marker Shear Bolt Replacement
Refer to Figure 111
If a marker gets caught or hits an obstruction, it is
designed to fail a shear bolt at the fold, pivot on a
second bolt , and swing back.
The shear bolt is a hex head cap screw,
7
/16-14X1/2X2 inch Grade 5, Great Plains part number
802-589C, plus a
number 803-200C.
Install a replacement shear bolt on the vertical faces on
the side opposite from the pivot bolt . Do not use a
higher grade bolt, or marker hang-ups may result in
machine damage. Do not use a lower grade bolt, or you
may experience nuisance shears.
Refer to Figure 112
If your planting frequently encounters shear hazards, you
can store 6 spare shear bolts/nuts per marker side, in
storage holes at the fold point.
7
/16-14 lock nut, Great Plains part
Marker Chain Length Adjustment
Great Plains suggests checking marker chain slack
every few years. If any maintenance or repairs cause the
chain to be disconnected, correct slack needs to be set
at installation.
Perform any checks and adjustments with the marker
folded and tilted down into its cradle.
Refer to Figure 113
At the midpoint in the exposed chain, pull it toward the
front of the planter.
Measure the distance between that mid-point and the
nearest point on either of the two parallel tubes of the
marker intermediate arm. The target value is:
18 inches (46 cm).
If the slack is outside this range, remove the bolt and nut
at the lower end of the chain and adjust the length.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 91
Figure 114
Marker Sequence Valve Location
25440
Figure 115
Marker Extension Adjustment
14048
F
S
S
2
1
1
2
Figure 116
Remove Right Hitch Shim
29859
1
4
2
3
12344
Dual Marker Speed Adjustment
Crushing and Sharp Object Hazards:
You may be injured if hit by a folding or unfolding marker.
Markers may fall quickly and unexpectedly if the hydraulics
fail. Never allow anyone near the planter when folding or
unfolding the markers.
Refer to Figure 114 and Figure 115
Adjust folding speed for dual markers with hex
adjustment screws on the sequence valve body. The
valve sequence body is top left center section, near front.
Loosen jam nuts before making adjustments.
There is one adjustment screw for fold-out speed and
one for fold-down speed . You can identify adjustment
screws by markings stamped in valve body.
Turn adjustment screws clockwise (S: slower) to
decrease folding speed and counterclockwise (F: faster)
to increase folding speed.
With tractor idling at a normal operating speed, adjust
marker folding to a safe speed. Excessive folding speed
could damage markers and void the warranty.
After adjusting the folding speed, tighten jam nuts on hex
adjustment screws to hold settings.
Hitch Shims
Refer to Figure 116
(an exploded view - remove only specified parts)
If the planter tends to pull to the right or left, inserting,
moving or stacking hitch shims may correct the problem.
The standard planter has one shim installed on the left. A
spare hitch shim was shipped with the planter.
To remove or insert a shim:
1. Loosen the eight nuts and bolts on the lower
hitch, only on the side to be changed.
2. At the four set screws , loosen the four jam nuts.
Drive the set screws in until the existing shim is
free, or the gap is large enough to insert a shim.
3. From the top, insert or remove:
401-943D SHIM HITCH FLANGE
4. Back out the four set screws. Tighten the eight nuts
and bolts. Turn the set screws in until they make
contact. Secure them with the four jam nuts.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 92
Figure 117
Measuring Chain Slack
27264
2
1
1
Figure 118
Chain Clip Orientation
26482
2
Figure 119
Meter Drive Inspection
21917
Chain Maintenance
Inspect and lubricate chains regularly. The slack of new
chains tends to increase during the first few hours of
operation due to seating.
Chain Slack
Check slack within the first 8 hours of operation and
tighten idlers as necessary.
Refer to Figure 117, which, for clarity, greatly
exaggerates slack, and omits the idlers.
1. Measure the span for allowable slack:
Locate the longest span of each chain (usually the
span which does not run through the idlers).
2. Determine the ideal slack:
Long chains (over 36 in./91 cm):
1
/4 inch per foot (2.1 cm/m)
Vertical short chains:
1
/4 inch per foot (2.1 cm/m)
Horizontal short chains:
1
/2 in. per foot (4.2 cm/m).
3. Measure the current slack :
Acting at a right angle to the chain span at the center
of the span, deflect the chain in both directions. The
slack is the distance of the movement.
4. Adjust the idlers for ideal slack.
Whenever mounting a chain, make sure the clip at the
removable link is oriented to minimize snags.
Refer to Figure 118 (gray or striped arrows show
chain direction in chain routing diagrams)
Install clip with open end facing away from direction of
chain travel.
Meter Drive Chain
Refer to Figure 119
Remove the seed meter and check the chain and
sprocket for wear. Refer to “Seed Meter Setup and
Adjustment” on page 72, for more information.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 93
Figure 120
Finger Meter Assembly
22507
1
2
4
5
6
7
3
12342455267
Meter Maintenance
Finger Pickup Meter Maintenance
Finger Set Inspection
Finger sets should be inspected on an annual basis.
After cleaning, carefully inspect the fingers and springs
for wear or other abnormalities that may develop.
Excessive wear may disrupt singulation performance.
Great Plains recommends having the meter service
performed by a recognized professional repair facility,
such as a certified MeterMax
choose to service them yourself, follow these procedures
when installing the finger sets.
See page 72 for meter removal.
Agricultural Chemical Hazard:
Follow material supplier recommendations carefully. Handle
the meter as if it were treated seed. use supplier-recommended
cleaning agents. Any seed treatment build-up inside a meter is
likely to be at a higher concentration than on the actual seed.
Finger Meter Re-Assembly Steps
Refer to Figure 120
1. Be sure the belt is oriented as shown in
2. Slide the finger set over the shaft and rotate
Figure 120.
clockwise until it sits against the backing plate .
®a
representative. If you
3. One click will sound when the holder engages the
roll pin and a second click will sound when the cam
engages the bearing housing.
4. Firmly press the finger set against the backing
plate while tightening the nut .
5. Tighten the nut until contact is made between the
nut and the finger set . Turn
1
(
/24to1/12 of a turn) (a flat is one of the six sides of
the nut) after contact is made. See page 98 for
details. This equals about 0.45 N-m (4 inch-pounds)
of torque on the nut.
6. Place the slotted nut cover on and carefully align
the slotted nut cover with the shaft hole. Insert the
cotter pin .
7. Rotate the finger set clockwise and make sure the
fingers open and close properly. Rotate the meter
and make sure the meter turns freely and that there
is no air gap between the outer rim of the ashtray
and the backing plate. Fingers should be closed at
the 8:00 to 2:00 position (exit hole) and open at the
2:00 to 8:00 position.
Precautions
Visually check that there is no visible air gap between the
holder and backing plate.
1
/4to1/2 flat
a. MeterMax® is a registered trademark of Precision Planting®, Inc.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 94
Figure 121
Population Max™ Insert
24031
2
1
4
3
4
34124
Make sure the finger set is properly torqued against the
backing plate. Improperly torqued finger sets may disrupt
seed singulation.
Population Max™ Annual Maintenance.
Population Max™
Inspect plate for wear or other abnormalities that may
develop. The action site area might also eventually
show some wear. When signs of wear appear, simply
replace insert.
Make sure transition between the Population Max™
backing plate and the insert is smooth. A slight incline
from backing plate to insert (clockwise motion) may
cause seeds to catch. Readjust insert if necessary.
Be cautious in using seed treatments, additives, and
other chemicals. They can cause meter performance
problems, premature wear to meter parts, and may
cause undesired chemical reaction or deterioration to the
Population Max™ material. When using seed treatments
always use graphite.
If Population Max™ plates are not installed in meter,
store in a vertical position on a cylindrical rod or face to
face.
Population Max™ Installation
Refer to Figure 121
1. Remove brush screws and brush. Gently pull
insert out.
2. Select appropriate insert and carefully slide into the
window. Insert may catch on a finger or two. It may
be necessary to lift the fingers up with a small
screwdriver or rotate the fingers backward while
sliding insert in. Insert will slide in without any
unnecessary force.
3. Make sure insert slides in all the way and firmly locks
in place.
4. Secure insert to backing plate by fastening the two
screws through the insert.
5. Reinstall brush and screws . Be careful! Do not
tighten brush too tightly or plastic lip may crack.
a
insert should be inspected annually.
a. Population Max™ is a trademark of Precision Planting, Inc.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 95
Meter Performance Risk:
Make sure Skip Stop™ Cushion is secured tightly to back
metal cover and cannot turn or rotate. Make sure Skip Stop™
Cushion does not interfere with belt rotation in any
manner. A loose Skip Stop™ Cushion may result in seed
leakage, poor meter performance, and planting errors.
Figure 122
Skip Stop™
24032
775
7
3
2
6
1
5
4
7
8
612
43617
43227
7
Skip Stop™ Annual Maintenance
a
Skip Stop™
Inspect cushion for wear, pockets, or other abnormalities
that may develop. Excessive wear or pocket formation
may cause seeds to become trapped and disrupt
singulation performance. As a general rule, if there is a
pocket that is large enough to hold one or more seeds
after the belt has passed by, Skip Stop™ Cushion should
be replaced.
Skip Stop™ Installation
Refer to Figure 122
1. Remove back metal cover by removing five bolts.
Four bolts attach cover to metal housing and one
bolt holds idler wheel and bushing .
2. Align new Skip Stop™ metal cover over
housing .
Skip Stop™ metal cover has a hole cut out for
Skip Stop™ Cushion . Make sure idler wheel
and bushing remain properly aligned and insert
1
/4X2 inch bolt . Secure bolt loosely.
3. Insert remaining three
metal cover to housing. Tighten all bolts securely.
4. Tighten bolt that secures idler wheel and turn belt
via the bearing shaft by hand to verify that belt is
centered between housing. If necessary, loosen bolt
and slide cover to adjust and re-center belt.
5. Place Skip Stop™ Cushion over the opening.
Insert two
Cushion to housing.
should be inspected on an annual basis.
1
/4X1/2inch bolts to fasten
1
/4X3/4inch bolts to secure Skip Stop™
a. Skip Stop™ is a trademark of Precision Planting, Inc.
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3PYP Table of Contents Index Maintenance and Lubrication 96
Figure 123
Sunflower Conversion Kit
34530
1
2
3
123
Figure 124
Remove Adjustment Lever
34527
6
8
7
9
9
67797
Exchanging Finger Sets
Although time-consuming, corn meters may be, with care,
converted to sunflower meters, and vice-versa
with factory-supplied corn meters, order quantity 16 of:
403-659A SUNFLOWER 12 FINGER CONV KIT
Refer to Figure 123
This kit contains a sunflower finger set , Insert C
and brushless block .
Meter conversion is available only for finger pickup
meters that were originally corn meters.
Factory-supplied sunflower meters cannot be
converted to corn meters, as they lack a brush
adjustment decal, which requires a factory alignment
fixture.
a
. Starting
Remove Meter Cover
1. Remove the finger pickup meters from the rows
(page 72).
2. Remove three sets of bolts and nuts securing the
cover to the meter.
Remove Adjustment Lever
Refer to Figure 124
3. Remove the E-clip closer to the brush block .
4. Withdraw the adjustment lever . Store the removed
e-clip on it.
Sunflower meters use a brushless block (installed at
step 13). The brushless block cannot be installed with
the adjustment lever present.
Remove Brush Block
5. Remove the two screws that secure the brush
block , then remove the brush block.
a. Larger sunflower sizes plant with the standard Corn configuration. See “Sunflower Meter Configurations” on page 77.
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