Reese Aitchison Seedmatic 40 D Series User manual

AITCHISON
SEEDMATIC
40/4124 D Series
DRILLS
Concave Disc Openers
REESE ENGINEERING LTD
41 KELVIN GROVE ROAD –PO BOX 5056
PALMERSTON NORTH, NEW ZEALAND
PHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
www.reeseagri.com

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Contents
INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................................3
TO THE OWNER AND OPERATOR...........................................................................................5
TECHINCAL SPECIFICATIONS..................................................................................................6
SAFETY FIRST...................................................................................................................................7
GENERAL OPERATION IN THE FIELD.................................................................................10
PASTURELAND FARMING WITH SEEDMATIC...............................................................10
MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS.....................................................................................10
TECNIQUES AND TIMING FOR PASTURE RENOVATION..........................................11
SIMPLE RULES TO FOLLOW FOR SUCCESSFUL PASTURE RENOVATION......12
MICRO INSECTICIDE GRANULES IN PASTURES...........................................................13
SOWING IN CULTIVATED SOILS...........................................................................................14
SETTING UP THE SEEDMATIC FOR USE............................................................................15
SET THE DEPTH WHEELS..........................................................................................................18
CALIBRATING THE DRILL TO CHECK THE SOWING RATE....................................19
LAYMANS GUIDE TO SEED VARIANCE ............................................................................20
DIFFICULT SEEDS TO SOW ......................................................................................................21
OAT WIPER AND BEAN SPACER ...........................................................................................22
RODENT DANGER.........................................................................................................................23
REMOVAL OF SEED FROM HOPPER....................................................................................24
SPECIAL PURPOSE SEEDING...................................................................................................24
CHANGING THE GEARBOX RATIO: Range 1 –Range 2 ....................................................25
FERTILISER SLIDE REMOVAL................................................................................................27
AUGER BAFFLE REMOVED......................................................................................................27
REAR INSPECTION PANELS REMOVED.............................................................................28
GENERAL MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................................28
LUBRICATION.................................................................................................................................28
CARE OF THE SPONGE PADS ..................................................................................................29
SEASONAL STORAGE..................................................................................................................29

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Introduction
Dear Valued Owner,
Congratulations, you have just made an excellent investment.
Your new Aitchison drill has been designed and engineered to give years of dependable service. Every
consideration has been taken to incorporate the latest technology, thus ensuring optimum seeding is
achieved. Aitchison Drills provide the optimum agronomic environment, ensuring proper seedling
germination, leading to superior crops and thus greater revenue earning potential.
It has often been said: “when all else fails-read the operator’s manual” and to ensure you get the best
from your new Aitchison drill it is very important that you thoroughly read through the entire contents
of the manual. Please also pay attention to the maintenance recommendations, understand the
calibration system and consider the design features and their specific functionality.
Your local dealer carries an extensive range of genuine Aitchison spare parts and consumables that
also have been engineered to provide long service and life. It is important that only genuine parts are
used on your drill.
Thank you for making your investment in our expertise.
Yours Sincerely,
Ross Simpson
Director
Reese Agri

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COMPLETE AND RETURN WARRANTY REGISTRATION TO ENSURE VALIDATION.
IN AUSTRALIA AND NZ RETURN TO: REESE ENGINEERING LTD, PO BOX 5056, PALMERSTON NORTH, NEW ZEALAND
REESE warrants that the Machine delivered shall conform to the specifications set out in this
Handbook.
REESE makes no warranty of saleability or fitness for a particular use, nor is there any other express
or implied warranty.
Subject to such other conditions, warranties, and/or undertakings which may apply from time to
time under any applicable law, REESE warrants with respect to each new AITCHISON Machine
sold by its accredited agents, that for a period of twelve months from the dates of original retail
sale, REESE will repair or replace free of charge any part found to be defective in factory
materials or workmanship under normal use and operation within the United States of America,
Canada, Australia and New Zealand provided that;
1. The Machine
(a) has been properly assembled and adjusted
(b) has been properly used and operated within the capacity and operating limitations specified by
the manufacturer thereof, and
(c) has been properly maintained and cared for.
2. This Warranty applies to direct purchase from an authorized AITCHISON dealer. If any
defect or fault shall arise such purchaser must return the defective work or Machine to an
authorized AITCHISON Dealer within ten working days of such defect or fault arising.
3. In the event of the purchaser attempting to repair or replace the work or product without
prior written consent of an authorized AITCHISON Distributor this guarantee shall become void.
REESE may replace or repair any damaged product or work at its discretion.
4. In respect of such Machine this warranty does not apply to:
(d) misuses or carelessness in handling,
(e) Non-compliance to REESE’s operating and maintenance instruction,
(f) Unauthorized repairs or alterations,
(g) Consequential damage resulting from misuse or initials faults,
(h) Parts subjected to wear or damage as a result of normal operation i.e.
i. Sponge pads and discs
ii. Tines and boots
iii. Discs
iv. Tyres
v. Hydraulic components
5. Any disputes in relation to this contract or product shall be governed by New Zealand law
and shall be determined in New Zealand court.
THE OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENT OF THE REESE MACHINE REQUIRES A COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF
THE CONTENTS OF THIS HANDBOOK. TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY PLEASE ENSURE THAT ALL
PERSONNEL ARE THOROUGHLY CONVERSANT WITH ALL DETAILS BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF
OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE.
WARNING
!
WARRANTY

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TO THE OWNER AND OPERATOR
Your Aitchison Drill was carefully designed and manufactured to give you years of
dependable service. To keep it running efficiently, read and follow the instructions in
this operator’s manual. Any questions you may have that are not covered in this manual
should be referred to your dealer:
Dealers Name: _____________________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________________________________
Phone No: Business: ____________________________Private: _____________________________
Date of Purchase: ___________________________________________________________________
Model: ________________________________ Serial Number: ______________________________
The warranty card on your Seedmatic Drill is included with this manual. Please ensure
that the registration card is correctly filled in.
The owner must ensure the dealer, upon delivery of the machine, has completed the WARRANTY
REGISTRATION CARD. This must be signed by the owner and returned to the factory promptly.
Failure to carry out this function could nullify warranty claim opportunities against the factory
in the future. Warranty claims will only be accepted for registered products.
When ordering spare parts, quote the model and serial number of the drill and use the
Aitchison part number given in the parts section. Reference to the right hand and left
hand is taken from behind in the direction of travel.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Model
4024D
4024DT
4124D
4124DT
Transport Width
3.425m
11.23ft
3.425m
11.23ft
3.425m
11.23ft
3.425m
11.23ft
Sowing Width
3.000m
9.8ft
3.000m
9.8ft
3.000m
9.8ft
3.000m
9.8ft
Height
1.750m
5.7ft
1.750m
5.7ft
1.750m
5.7ft
1.750m
5.7ft
Weight Empty
1420kg
3130lb
1785kg
3935lb
1550kg
3417lb
1915kg
4221lb
Length
2.080m
6.8ft
4.375m
14.3ft
2.270m
7.4ft
4.375m
14.3ft
Seed Capacity
850lt
24.1bu
850lt
24.1bu
570lt
16.1bu
570lt
16.1bu
Fertiliser Capacity
N/A
N/A
590lt
16.7bu
590lt
16.7bu
Number of Coulters
& row spacings
24 Rows @
125mm / 5”
24 Rows @
125mm / 5”
24 Rows @
125mm / 5”
24 Rows @
125mm / 5”
Optional Accessories:
Bin level indictor; A3083
Hydraulic Kit for Drawbar; A3129

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SAFETY FIRST
Keep all covers in place when using the drill.
Stop the drill before making adjustments.
Lower the drill to the ground or put on props when working around the machine.
Tighten all nuts and bolts after initial use.
FOLLOW SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Carefully read all safety messages in this manual
and on your machine safety signs. Replace missing
or damaged safety signs, these can be ordered from
your local Aitchison dealer.
Learn how to operate the machine and how to use controls properly. Do not let
anyone operate it without instruction.
Keep your machine in proper working condition. Unauthorized modifications to the
machine may impair the function and/or safety and affect machine life.
If you do not understand any part of this manual and need assistance, contact your
Aitchison’s dealer.
OPERATE YOUR MACHINE SAFELY
Be careful when operating machine to avoid injury.
Serious injury or death can result from contact with
electric lines. Use care when moving or operating
the machine near electric lines to avoid contact.
Be careful when operating on hillsides, tractor can tip sideways if it strikes a hole,
ditch or other irregularity.
Permit only one person, the operator, on tractor
platform while tractor and planter are in operation.
Keep riders off. They are subject to injury such as
being struck by foreign object and being thrown off
the machine. They also obstruct the operators view.
WEAR PROTECTIVE GEAR
Wear close fitting clothes and safety equipment
appropriate to the job.
Wear suitable hearing protective device as
prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause
impairment or loss of hearing.
Wear safety gloves when working with discs as they can have sharp edges.
Operating equipment safely requires the full attention of the operator. Do not wear
radio headphones while operating machine.

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BE SAFE WITH CHEMICALS
Direct exposure to agricultural and hazardous
chemicals can cause serious injury. Potentially
hazardous chemicals used with Aitchison
equipment include such items as lubricants,
coolants, fertilizer, paint and adhesives. If in
doubt, contact your local Aitchison dealer
for information about chemical safety and first aid
procedures.
Keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit handy
When disposing of chemicals, make sure hoppers are properly washed to get rid of
any chemical residue and that any chemicals are disposed of in an approved manner.
Follow instructions of chemical manufacturers for disposal methods.
USE SAFETY LIGHT AND DEVICES
Slow moving tractors and equipment can create a
hazard when driven on public roads. They are
difficult to see, especially at night. This could
lead to personal injury or death if a collision with a
vehicle occurs.
Whenever driving on public roads, use flashing warning lights. Provide extra lighting
at night on machine and tractor. An implement safety lighting kit is available from
Aitchison Industries.
TRANSPORT SAFELY
Do not exceed transport speed for machine; see your local Aitchison dealer. Never
transport at any speed which does not permit adequate control of steering and
stopping.
Reduce speed over rough ground
For safe transport, tractor must weigh more than machine.
REDUCE SPEED WHEN TOWING LOADS
Braking to stop towed loads from transport speeds can
cause the towed load to swerve and upset. Reduce
speed if towed load weighs more than the tractor and
is not equipped with brakes.
Use additional caution when towing loads under adverse
surface conditions, when turning and on road marking lines.

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PRACTICE SAFE MAINTENANCE
Understand service procedure before doing work. Keep area clean and dry.
Never lubricate service or adjust machine while it is moving. Keep hands, feet and
clothing from power driven parts. Disengage all power and operate controls to relieve
pressure. Lower the equipment to the ground. Allow machine to cool.
Securely support any machine elements that must be raised for service work.
Keep all parts in good condition and properly installed. Fix damage immediately.
Replace worn or broken parts. Remove any build-up of grease, oil, or debris.
Remove paint before welding or heating.
Avoid potentially toxic fumes and dust
when sanding, repainting or welding. Do
all work outside in a well-ventilated area.
Dispose of paint and solvent properly.
Avoid heating near pressurized fluid lines or other flammable materials. Pressurized
lines can be accidentally cut when heat goes beyond the immediate flame, which
could result in severe burns to yourself and bystanders.
Avoid high-pressure fluids. Escaping fluid under pressure can cause injury. Relieve
pressure before disconnecting hydraulic or other lines.
DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY
Improper disposing of waste can threaten the
Environment and ecology. Use leak-proof
Equipment when draining fluids. Do not use
food or beverage containers that may mislead
someone into drinking from them.
Do not pour waste onto the ground, down a drain, or into any water
source. Use the manufacturers directions on the correct way to
recycle or dispose of waste.

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GENERAL OPERATION IN THE FIELD
When the drill is in work in the field, adjust the top link to make the frame level and
the sway chains to give 75-100mm (3-4”) lateral movement. The tractor hydraulics
should be set to allow the drill to float over the terrain unimpeded by the movement of
the tractor. Adjust the depth wheels evenly on both sides to give the required opener
penetration. In extremely hard conditions it is permissible to weigh the front of the
drill to aid penetration.
The drill should always be moving forward when lowered or raised from work.
Avoid stopping and never reverse with drill in work. These precautions will avoid
blocking outlets; however make periodic checks for blockages while drilling.
The speed of travel is governed by the conditions e.g. if the ground is rough the drill
may tend to bounce which would necessitate a lower speed. In optimum conditions 8
km/h (5 mph) may be maintained.
Always lift the drill out of the ground before turning sharp corners as this will protect
the openers and stop the turf from ripping.
Under no circumstances should the tractor wheels be allowed to slip excessively as
this will break the turf and the following Discs will tear up the ground. If slippage is
a problem, use a tractor with more traction or wait for the ground to be in better
condition. Towing chains or bar harrows behind the drill is very beneficial as this will
crumble the groove and help to cover the seed.
PASTURELAND FARMING WITH SEEDMATIC
Continuous reaping of grasses either by machine or animal will eventually lead to
their degeneration. Desired species of grasses and legumes will weaken and their
ability to survive adverse climatic conditions will be diminished. Undesirable species
of grasses and weeds will eventually tend to dominate, or pasture may simply thin out
with minimal plant populations. Of course conditions that cause pasture
degenerations vary from location to location, and from country to country, but one
can assume that every pasture can be improved no matter where its location.
MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
In describing the technique for sowing seeds into uncultivated soils, we should clarify
the terminology. It is most common to refer to CONSERVATION TILLAGE (or CT)
but it may be called SOD-SEEDING in Australia, or DIRECT DRILLING in UK or
even NO-TILL SEEDING in North America. Wherever it is practical, successful
conservation tillage requires well considered and thorough preparation, integrated
with a whole farm management program.
The cropping rotation, optimum sowing dates and grazing fertilization program will
depend on the seasonal vegetation or weed spectrum, paddock history, soil type,
fertility and drainage, and many other factors.

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Here is a checklist that should be followed for any CT program (courtesy of Monsanto
NZ Ltd):
1. Check that the soil pH is around 6.0.
2. Check soil fertility levels for fertiliser requirement.
3. Ensure your spray boom has a marking system and is fully operational.
4. Establish optimum time for planting.
5. Check and control weeds present, before and during crop establishment.
6. Check and control insect and slug infestation before and during plant
establishment.
7. Ensure soil conditions are suitable for drilling.
8. Inspect the crop regularly after planting.
Experience has shown that farmers new to CT often have crop failures on the first
occasion, but as their skills and understanding of the technique improve, so do their
crop results.
TECHNIQUES AND TIMING FOR PASTURE RENOVATION
There are two basic techniques for pasture renovation, i.e. rejuvenation and renewal.
Rejuvenation is the most efficient technique and involves sowing the seeds of new
and virile pasture grasses and legumes direct into existing pasture and have them
gradually take over the old strain, without causing loss of production due to
cultivation. This technique is known as ‘stitching in’. Renewal involves a total
herbage control system, i.e. spray off old pasture with a wide spectrum herbicide
before drilling.
Local knowledge is invaluable when determining which techniques to use and when
to use them. The best time for pasture renovation will vary by region, and is largely
governed by the temperature and weather that follow. In temperate climates with
mild winters the autumn is best and tropical climates the spring is the best time when
the tropical grasses have not recovered from their winter dormancy. In arid climates
the time is directly before or after summer rains.
The basic requirement for seed germination is a warm moist seed bed. The aim
should be to sow the seed at a time when there is sufficient moisture for quick
germination, and little likelihood for later drought. The Aitchison opener/coulter
however will promote germination in much drier soils than any other known coulter
when used correctly.

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SIMPLE RULES TO FOLLOW FOR SUCCESSFUL
PASTURE RENOVATION

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MICRO INSECTICIDE GRANULES IN PASTURES
In New Zealand where grass grub is a problem, excellent control has been attained
with the use of Gesapon, Dasanit, Dysiston, Mocap, and Lindane in control of this
pasture destroyer. Normal rates applied on the pasture surface can be as high as 30
kg/ha (26 lb/acre) but when sown in the soil and hence away from neutralizing effect
sunlight, rates as low as four and five kg/ha can be used. If unexposed to sunlight
these chemicals can remain effective in the soil as long as three months, thus killing
generations of pupae as they emerge. This factor is an important feature of the
Seedmatic.
Watch for slugs. Slugs like the moist groove produced by the wing blade opener. If
slugs become a problem (eating seeds or seedlings underground), a suitable pellet
should be used.
DIRECT SEEDING OF FEED CROPS AND ARABLE CROPS
WITH THE SEEDMATIC AND GRASSFARMER.
We are not in a position to give total formal recommended seeding rates, chemical
usage and fertiliser recommendations because of circumstance that the Seedmatic will
be used in will be so varied and diverse that some misunderstanding can occur.
Refer to the checklist and ALWAYS confirm with known successful CT operators as
well as your local seed specialist and chemical company representatives. Remember
that with this technique the environment is not as predictable as with cultivated soils,
and take the precaution of using insecticide or increased fertiliser if there should be
any element of doubt.
Seeding programs are wide and varied and it is best to look at rotation that starts with
a legume or feed crop followed by a grain crop, followed by another feed crop and so
on. Heavy pasture into grain can be disappointing, but grain after legume or brassica
is outstanding.
Here are just a few possibilities:
Brassicas, Turnips, Swedes, Legumes –Can be sown spring (for winter feed) or
again in autumn for later winter early spring feed. The technique is to blanket spray
the entire area and ensure that seeding depths are shallow. A light bar harrow pulled
over the seeding areas is beneficial. Use fertiliser and see your chemical company
specialist with regard to the correct insecticide to use.
Winter Feed Oats –This can be seeded direct into pasture in early autumn. Existing
Herbage control should be carried out.
Wheat and Barley –Direct seeding in early spring or autumn depending on variety.
Always spray out pasture with approved herbicide (may not be necessary after
brassica). Always sow with fertiliser.
Lucerne, Alfalfa –Sow in spring after spraying out entire area with Roundup or
similar herbicide. It is always a good idea to do a soil test to ensure that the solid pH
is satisfactory for plant establishment. Also it is necessary to ensure that the seeds are
treated with inoculants to guarantee their germination and nodulation. Apply fertiliser
and ensure that spraying and baiting for insects is carried out –particularly for control
of slugs and snails.
Green-feed Maize –Carry out in spring and the same rules apply as with wheat,
barley and oats. You may wish to seed in 30 or 45 cm (12” or 18”) rows and the
technique for achieving that is shown under the section SPECIAL PURPOSE
SEEDING shown later in this booklet.

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SOWING IN CULTIVATED SOILS
As this is a Disc Coulter implement with a direct drill type opener, it is important to
treat all seed beds as you would a pasture. With a conventional drill one works up the
soil into a fine seedbed so that a broad boot type coulter will pass through leaving the
seed behind the soil tilth. With the Seedmatic, cultivate the soil to destroy existing
vegetation but before seeding, roll the seedbed thoroughly and then drill the seeds
required into this rolled seedbed. Good germination results will occur.
We recommend that a chain harrow be towed behind the seed drill or
roll the field after seeding has been completed.

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SETTING UP THE SEEDMATIC FOR USE
Connecting drill to tractor; 3 Point Linkage Models.
Connect the Seedmatic drill to the rear 3-point linkage of you tractor. Adjust the
tractors top link arm so the drill frame is sitting parallel with the ground.
Adjust the tractors sway chains to give 75-100mm lateral movement.
The tractors hydraulics should be set to allow the drill to float over the terrain
unimpeded by the movement of the tractor.

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Connecting drill to tractor; Trailed Models.
Connect the Seedmatic Drawbar to the tractors Towbar. Make sure you use a safety
clip on the drawbar pin.
If you are to travel on public roads ensure you fit a SAFETY CHAIN between the
Seedmatic Drawbar and the tractor’s Towbar.
Connect the Seedmatic’s hydraulic hoses to one of the tractors hydraulic banks. This
hydraulic system is used to rase and lower the rear transport wheels on the Seedmatic.
When seeding the rear transport wheels should be fully raised clear of the ground.
Adjust the Drawbar top link to ensure that the Seedmatic drill frame is sitting parallel
with the ground.

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Set the depth wheels.
With the Seedmatic sitting on hard flat ground, the depth wheels should be 25-75mm
clear of the ground, depending on your desired seeding depth. There is an adjustment
handle at the top of each depth leg, use this to adjust the legs.
There is a depth gauge at the top of each depth leg, check that both depth legs
are set at the same height
When the drill is in work, the best way to check your seeding depth is to have a
scratch around in the seed slots behind the drill and check where the seeds are placed
in the soil. Make the appropriate adjustments as needed.
At times we recommend that a chain harrow or light roller is towed behind the
Seedmatic to help cover the seed slots. This will help prevent bird strike and can
aid in seed germination.

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CALIBRATING THE DRILL TO CHECK THE SOWING
RATE
NOTE: When new, the Seed Pads may have a white powder (chalk dust) on
them. This is to prevent them from sticking together during manufacturing.
This chalk dust can impede your seeding rate until it has been removed or until it
dissipates. This can be done by hand, or over time by using the seed drill.
By Hand: This can be achieved by sliding the Seed Pad away from the Housing and
dusted off the powder.
Dissipates: Simply using the Seed Drill. (The seeding rate will slowly increase as the
chalk dust dissipates. (Usually within the first hour of use.) RE-CALIBRATE.
(1) Prime:
Place seed in the hopper over any 5
adjoining outlets. Rotate the Crank Handle
until a steady flow of seed can be
witnessed falling from the seed outlets.
Set the Gearbox pointer in the appropriate
position for you desired seed sowing rate.
(See Seed Chart under hopper lid.)
(2) Seed Catchment:
Place the Calibration Tray under the 5
appropriate Seed metering Units to catch
the metered seed.
Another method is to pull the black seed
dropper hose off the 5 appropriate Coulter
Tubes and place them in a bag or container.
(3) Seed Metering:
Rotate Crank Handle Clockwise 29
times.
(4) Weigh Seed:
Catch and weigh the total amount metered
through the 5 metering units. (in grams).
NOTE: Remember “TARE” scales before
weighing; for the weight of the bag or
container.
(5) Conversion:
Divide the weight measured by 3to
establish kilograms per hectare.
ie: 45 grams / 3 = 15kg/ha
(6) Check:
If above or below the desired rate, make the
necessary adjustment via the Gearbox
Pointer Adjuster. RECALIBRATE
Follow the above steps to calibrate the Fertiliser Hopper.