Standen SP Series User manual

SP Series
2/3 Row
Potato Planters
Standen Engineering Limited.
Hereward Works,
Station Road, Ely,
Cambridgeshire.
CB7 4BP
England.
Tel: [phone] www.standen.co.uk Fax: [phone]

On delivery check that the machine is as ordered and has not been damaged in
transit. Please report any shortfall to your Standen dealer.
The contents of this handbook, although correct at the time of publication, may be
subject to alteration by the manufacturers without prior notice.
Standen Engineering Limited operates a policy of continual product development.
Therefore, some illustrations and/or text within this publication may differ from your
machine.
The copyright of this handbook is the property of Standen Engineering Limited,
Hereward Works, Station Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire. CB7 4BP. This handbook is
issued on the condition that it must not be used, copied or exhibited without their
written permission.
IMPORTANT
This operator’s handbook should be regarded as part of the
machine. Suppliers of both new and second-
hand machines are
advised to retain documentary e
vidence that this handbook was
supplied along with the machine.
On installation of the machine (i.e. starting off in the field), the New
Machine Installation Record Card should be completed by the
dealer/distributor and be countersigned by the customer. T
he
document is proof that the correct procedures have been followed.
The New Machine Installation Record Card should be returned to
Standen Engineering Limited within 7 days of installation. Failure to
do so may invalidate the machine warranty.
The New M
achine Installation Record Card should be returned to
Standen Engineering Limited within 7 days of installation. Failure to
do so may invalidate the machine warranty.

INTRODUCTION
Introduction to the Handbook 1.1
Warranty 1.1
Replacement Parts 1.2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety 1.3
INSTALLATION
Overview 1.5
Tractor Suitability 1.5
Attaching the Planter to the Tractor 1.5
OPERATION
Planting 1.7
Land Wheel Adjustment 1.7
Setting the Seed Spacing 1.7
Setting the Planting Depth 1.8
Floating Openers 1.9
Soil Retention Panels 1.9
Bed Forming Board and Ridger Bodies 1.10
Multi-Adjustable Moulding Board 1.11
Feed of Potatoes to Cups 1.12
Feed Belts 1.12
Cup Belts 1.13
Insert Cups 1.14
Seed Monitors 1.14
Cup Belt Agitators 1.15
Hydraulic Depth Control 1.16
Automatic Depth Control (prior to 2013) 1.17
Depth Control Sensor Adjustment (prior to 2013) 1.18
Hydraulic Space Selector 1.20
Hydraulic System 1.20
Calibrating the Control Box to the Motor Valve 1.21
Calibrating the Control Box Area Recorder 1.22
Hydraulic Space Selector in Operation 1.22
Seed Spacing 1.23
Planting Rate 1.23
Unload/Prime 1.23
Seed Population 1.23
Area Recorder 1.24
Converting from Three to Two Rows 1.24
Hillside Axle Kit 1.24
Proximity Sensor Adjustment 1.25
Fitting a New Automatic Depth Control Relay 1.25
MAINTENANCE
Lubrication 1.26
Mechanical Drives Maintenance 1.26
Electrical System Maintenance 1.26
Hydraulic System Maintenance 1.26
Daily Maintenance 1.27
Weekly Maintenance 1.28
Annual Maintenance 1.28
Out of Season Storage 1.28
SPECIFICATION
Machine Dimensions 1.30
Machine Weight 1.30
Technical Data 1.30
SEED POPULATION TABLES
Seed Population per Acre 1.31
APPENDIX
Automatic Depth Control (from 2013) 1.32
Depth Control Sensor Adjustment (from 2013) 1.34
CONTENTS

Introduction to the Handbook
This handbook provides the information for the operation, adjustment and
maintenance of your Standen SP Series 2/3 Row Potato Planter. To enable you to
achieve the best results from the machine, the manufacturer recommends that you
read the handbook thoroughly prior to using the machine for the first time.
Record below the details of your machine.
Dealers name...............................................................................…………….
Address......................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................
Telephone number.................................................................................…….
Machine serial number...............................................................................…
Date purchased............................................................................................
Date started work........................................................................................
This symbol indicates important safety messages within this handbook.
When you see this symbol, be alert to the possibility of injury to yourself
or others and/or damage to the machine and carefully read the
message that follows.
Throughout this handbook the terms 'front', 'rear', 'left-hand' (LH) and 'right-hand'
(RH) are derived from the tractor driver’s position facing forward in the normal
direction of travel.
Adjustments to the machine may have to be made singly or in combination according
soil conditions. Always allow the machine to settle to a new setting before making
further adjustments.
Recommended lubrication and maintenance instructions are included in this
handbook and if followed will help to keep the machine in a safe working condition.
Warranty
Should the machine suffer any faults or defects within the warranty period, please
contact your dealer. The warranty shall be effective only if the dealer is informed of
any such defect as soon as practicable upon discovery.
1.1
INTRODUCTION

Replacement Parts
Recommended replacement parts are designed for your machine and have the full
backing of the warranty. Only when recommended parts are used can responsibility
be considered under the terms of the warranty.
The rear section of this handbook contains lists of spare parts available through your
Standen Agents. Each illustration shows a complete unit or assembly in exploded
form. Standen's policy of continual product development means that components or
even complete assemblies are redesigned from time to time. Where possible the
modifications are shown in the remarks column.
The first printing of each page in the spare parts section is identified as issue 1 at the
foot of the page. When a complete unit or assembly has been redesigned the
appropriate pages are revised and printed as issue 2. The revised pages are filed
behind the existing issue so that a complete modification history is gradually built up.
When using an illustration and parts list it is essential that both are of the same issue.
Always quote the full serial number of your machine when ordering spare
parts.
INTRODUCTION
1.2

Safety
The Standen SP Series Potato Planters have been designed to comply with current
Safety Regulations. However, as with all machinery there will be inherent dangers
whilst operating and carrying out maintenance on the machine. The following list of
precautions should therefore be brought to the attention of all persons operating and
working on the machine. The list is not exhaustive. All machinery is potentially
dangerous and great care must be exercised by the operators at all times. Standen
Engineering Limited will not accept liability for damage or injury caused by their
products except when such liability is specifically imposed by English statute.
The machine must never be operated by untrained personnel or
children.
The tractor must be of a suitable size to lift the implement safely. This
may entail the fitting of front weights to counterbalance the machine
when in the raised position.
Always check that the machine has been correctly mounted to the
tractor before setting off on operations and the stabilizers are correctly
set.
Never set machinery in motion before ensuring that everyone in the
vicinity is aware of your intentions.
Never allow children or animals in the vicinity where machines are
working and never allow anyone to ride on the machine.
Never attempt to fit drive chains or drive belts to the machine while the
drive sprockets or pulleys are in motion.
Normal safe working procedures should be adopted at all times.
Reduce speed when transporting the machine on sloping ground.
Do not work on ground where there is a possibility of overturning or
across steep slopes.
The working area should be kept clear and free of obstructions at all
times. Be alert for hidden obstructions. Should the machine hit an
obstruction, stop and check for damage before proceeding.
Wear substantial or proper safety footwear. Avoid loose clothing near
moving parts. Wear gloves when handling the implement or parts with
sharp edges.
Before carrying out any work on the machine, lower the machine to the
ground, switch off the tractor engine, apply the handbrake, remove the
ignition key. Never work on or pass under the machine when it is raised
on the tractor hydraulic linkage.
1.3
SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS

When left free standing i.e. not attached to the tractor, the machine
must be on level ground.
The operator must not leave the tractor seat until the machine has been
lowered to the ground, the tractor engine switched off, the handbrake
applied and the ignition key removed.
Never reverse or turn unless the machine is in the raised position.
All guards, covers, warning transfers and safety devices must be
correctly fitted and operable at all times.
Inspect the machine on a regular basis and replace damaged or worn
parts as necessary.
Inspect the machine for damage after use. Rectify as required.
Never operate the machine in a state of disrepair.
When in transport the moulding board/ridgers should be raised and
secured into the transport position.
Only transport the machine at a speed suitable to the prevailing
conditions. Be aware of the weight and overall length of the machine at
all times.
When in transport keep the hopper empty. Always fill the hopper in the
field. Transporting with a full hopper causes strain on both planter and
tractor and will pack the potatoes in the hopper causing ‘bridging’ when
planting commences.
Always ensure road lights are clean and in good working order.
Always use mechanical or additional help when lifting heavy parts.
Regularly check hydraulic hoses for chafing or damage and replace as
necessary.
Care must be taken when carrying out any work on the hydraulic
system. Even when stopped and disconnected from the tractor, residual
pressure will exist within the hydraulic system. Therefore, before
commencing any work on the hydraulics ensure that the system is free
of residual pressure.
Safety is the responsibility of the persons working with this
machine. Think "safety" at all times. Read and remember the
contents of this handbook.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.4

Overview
Standen SP Series Potato Planters can be built in many forms e.g. 2 row, 3 row,
manual space selector, hydraulic space selector etc. The machines are
designed to plant potatoes with extreme gentleness and accuracy in either
standard planting or bed work.
Tractor Suitability
The SP Series planter is suitable for tractors of 100 hp minimum.
The tractor must be of a suitable size to lift the implement safely. This
may entail the fitting of front weights to counterbalance the machine
when in the raised position.
Attaching the Planter to the Tractor
The planter is designed to be mounted onto the tractor 3-point linkage. The lower link
arm brackets (item 1, figure 1) are adjustable to accommodate all tractors. Adjust
both brackets equally ether side of the headstock.
When fitting to the tractor ensure the planter is standing on firm level
ground. The operator should have read and understood the tractor
operators manual prior to attaching the machine and putting into work.
Reverse the tractor up to the planter and engage the tractor lower link arms onto the
planter link arm brackets. The tractor lower link arms and stabilisers must be set to
ensure the planter runs central to the tractor. Fit the top link and adjust to level the
planter. If the planter is fitted with hydraulic depth control, the top link is replaced by a
hydraulic ram (see section ‘Hydraulic Depth Control’ for fitting instructions).
Once mounted to the tractor, the hydraulic and electrical control services can be
connected. The hydraulic pressure hose (marked red), should be connected to the
tractor constant supply port. The return hose (marked blue) should be connected to
the tractor return port. The electrical control box should be mounted securely inside
the tractor cab in a position where it is comfortable to operate when seated. Connect
the cable between the planter and control box ensuring it is safely and securely
routed in the tractor cab. The box requires a 12v D.C. supply.
1.5
INSTALLATION
Fig 1

Connect the power lead directly to the tractor battery, blue lead to negative (-)
terminal and brown lead to positive (+) terminal. Finally, connect the planter road
lights plug to the tractor 7-pin socket.
The parking stands (item 2, figure 1) must be raised before
commencing work. When disconnecting the planter from the tractor
always ensure the stands are lowered to support the machine.
INSTALLATION
1.6

Planting
Careful planting is one of the pre-requisites for a good crop of high quality potatoes.
The potatoes should be planted in straight ridges without gaps and at a correct and
even depth. This is achieved when, at the beginning of planting, the functions of the
planter and the different adjustments are carefully studied.
The seed potatoes used can vary a great deal (i.e. different varieties, shape, size,
number of sprouts, skin quality etc.) and the planter must be adjusted accordingly.
On machines fitted with manual space selector, when ready to plant, first lift the
planter on the tractor three point linkage and turn the right hand land wheel until
every cup on the elevators is filled. This way the machine commences to plant
immediately on starting. Seed population tables are included at the end of this
section of the handbook.
Land Wheel Adjustment
The planter land wheels must be set to straddle the rows. The LH and RH wheel
units are adjustable to allow the wheels to be set between 142cm (56") for a two row
machine, 152cm (60") for a three row machine and 203cm (80").
To adjust the land wheels:
Loosen the chain tensioner (item 1, figure 2) and remove the drive chain (item 2,
figure 2) (machines with manual space selector only). Loosen the LH and RH wheel
unit frame securing bolts (item 1, 2 & 3, figure 3) and soil retention panel front
mounting ‘U’ bolts (item 4, figure 3). Slide the wheel units soil retention panel
mountings to the required setting ensuring they are adjusted equally about the
machine centre-line. When in position, retighten the securing bolts (item 1, 2 & 3,
figure 3) and ‘U’ bolts (item 4, figure 3). Loosen the drive sprocket (item 3, figure 2)
and reposition it to align with the driven sprocket (item 4, figure 2). Ensure the
retaining bolts locate firmly on the drive shaft flat. Finally, refit the drive chain (item 2,
figure 2) and set it to the correct tension by adjusting the chain tensioner (item 1,
figure 2).
Depending on the row width setting and wheel setting, a different drive shaft (item 5,
figure 2) may be required. When built, the planter will have been set-up for the
customers original requirements and therefore supplied with the correct drive shaft.
Fig 2 Fig 3
1.7
OPERATION

Additional drive shafts are available from your Standen dealer (see the spare parts
section of this handbook).
To change the drive shaft:
Loosen the chain tension roller (item 1, figure 2) and remove the drive chain (item 2,
figure 2). Loosen the drive sprocket (item 3, figure 2) and adjacent locking collar
(item 6, figure 2) and withdraw the drive shaft in the direction of the arrow.
Reassemble using the correct length of drive shaft.
Setting the Seed Spacing (machines with manual space selector only)
The seed spacing is adjusted by changing the ratio of the drive transmission taken
from the RH land wheel.
To change the seed spacing:
Choose the required seed spacing from the sprocket table decal on the machine and
select the sprockets indicated. Remove the drive chain (item 1, figure 4) by rotating
the tensioner (item 2, figure 4) to increase slack. If this is difficult, release the tension
by loosening the spring anchor (item 3, figure 4). Remove the sprocket retaining bolts
(item 4, figure 4) and slide the sprockets from their shafts. Fit the selected sprockets
ensuring they locate on the driving pins (item 1, figure 5). When fitting the 16 tooth
sprocket, the sprocket boss (item 2, figure 5) is not required. When refitting the
sprocket boss, or fitting the 16 tooth sprocket, ensure the drive shaft pin (item 3,
figure 5) engages in the boss. Replace the sprocket retaining bolts (item 4, figure 4).
Re-fit the drive chain (item 1, figure 4) and adjust the tension by repositioning the
spring anchor (item 3, figure 4).
Setting the Planting Depth
The floating openers are adjustable for depth by raising or lowering the land wheels
relative to the planter body. Raising the wheels will allow the opener to dig deeper
and conversely lowering the wheels will allow the opener to dig shallower. To adjust
the planting depth, loosen the lock plates (item 5, figure 4) and rotate the turnbuckles
(item 6, figure 4) to raise or lower the land wheels relative to the planter body. Ensure
both sides are adjusted equally. Additional adjustment can be achieved by adjusting
the top link between the tractor and the planter although making the openers dig too
deep by this method could result in the soil 'bulldozing' in front of the planter.
OPERATION
1.8
Fig 4 Fig 5

Floating Openers
The bottom springs (item 1, figure 6) allow the openers (item 2, figure 6) to ride over
obstructions reducing damage to the planter. The top springs/spacers (item 3, figure
6) carry the weight of the openers and prevent them from 'nose diving' in soft soil.
The bottom springs should be set to allow the ground pressure during work to lift the
opener into the working position as shown (see figure 6). To adjust, reposition the
locknuts (item 4, figure 6). On 2 row machines fitted with an opener depth wheel, the
bottom springs should be released to allow the depth wheel to float freely and the top
springs should be set to allow 25mm (1”) of free downward movement during work.
Soil Retention Panels
The soil retention panels (item 1, figure 7) prevent soil from flowing into the
wheelings from the openers. Vertical adjustment is provided to allow the panels to be
raised/lowered to match wheel height. To adjust the height loosen the front leg
retaining screws (item 2, figure 7) and raise/lower the leg to the required position.
Loosen the rear leg retaining screws (item 1, figure 8) and adjust the leg height so
that that the panel (item 1, figure 7) runs parallel with the ground. The angle at which
the pivot arms (item 3, figure 7) operate should be approximately 30°from horizontal
allowing the panels to ride the contours of the ground. The depth chains (item 2,
figure 8) should be adjusted to allow the panels to float when in work but prevent
them from dropping too low when the planter is lifted on the tractor linkage. The skids
(item 4, figure 7) are fitted to assist the soil retention panels in riding over the ground.
The skid should be set slightly below the bottom edge of the panel. To adjust loosen
the retaining bolts (item 5, figure 7).
1.9
OPERATION
Fig 6
Fig 7 Fig 8

Bed Forming Board and Ridger Bodies (optional)
The ridge shape and size is controlled by the height and width of the bed forming
board (item 1, figure 9), the setting of the ridgers (item 1, figure 10), and the spring
pressure exerted on the trailing arms (item 2, figure 9) and tool bar (item 3, figure 9).
The height at which both the board and the ridger bodies operate can be varied by
removing the bolts (item 4, figure 9) and repositioning the trailing arms (item 2, figure
9) to align with a different hole. The arms should run parallel to the ground during
work. The pressure exerted by the torsion springs (item 5, figure 9) is adjusted by
repositioning the adjuster rod locknuts (item 6, figure 9). Shortening the adjuster rods
will increase the spring pressure. Adjust both sides equally.
The chains (item 7, figure 9) should be set to allow the ridgers and bed forming board
some free downward float when raising the planter out of work at the end of each
row, the ridgers can then be drawn forward to cover the remaining uncovered sets in
the row before raising the planter fully and making the headland turn. Adjust the
locknuts/chains accordingly.
To adjust the width of the bed forming board (item 1, figure 9), slide the board
extensions (item 8, figure 9) to the required position. The weight (item 9, figure 9)
flattens the bed. By adding extra weights the bed can be flattened further. The chains
(item 10, figure 9) hold the bed forming board at the required height. The chains are
also used to hold the board in the raised transport position.
The ridger bodies (item 1, figure 10) create the sides of the bed. The position of the
ridger bodies relative to the board can be adjusted by loosening the retaining bolts
(item 2, figure 10) and sliding the ridger units along the tool bar. The position of the
ridger units is important to ensure a nicely formed bed. Leaving a large gap between
the ridger units and the board will cause a ridge to be formed on top of the bed.
The height of the ridger bodies can be adjusted by loosening the retaining bolts (item
3, figure 10) and then raising or lowering each unit. The angle at which the ridger
bodies operate can be altered in the same way. To adjust, loosen one bolt and then
tighten the other. Which bolt to tighten and which to loosen depends on the required
direction of tilt.
OPERATION
1.10
Fig 9 Fig 10

The wings (item 4, figure 10) can be adjusted by loosening the securing bolt (item 5,
figure 10) and pulling them apart or pushing them together. In addition, the wings on
some ridgers can be raised or lowered by loosening the bolt (item 6, figure 10). The
lower the wing is positioned, the less soil will be lifted.
Each ridger body is protected by a shear bolt (item 7, figure 10). If the ridger hits an
obstruction the bolt will break and allow the ridger body to swing backwards so
avoiding any serious damage to the machine.
If a bolt shears, stop, lift the machine out of work and check for
damage. Reset the ridger and replace the shear bolt. The shear bolts
should be kept tight at all times.
Multi-Adjustable Moulding Board (optional)
The adjustable moulding board (item 1, figure 11) is mounted to the rear of the
planter via parallel linkage arms (item 2, figure 11). During work these arms should
be at approximately 10°from horizontal. This can be achieved by repositioning the
bolts (item 1, figure 12) into a different set of holes. The height and downward
pressure exerted by the moulding board is controlled by the reaction arm (item 2,
figure 12) and upper and lower stops. The lower stop (item 3, figure 12) controls the
height of the board whilst simultaneously reduces the pressure of the board on the
bed. The upper stop (item 4, figure 12) induces a downward pressure on the board
by loading the rubber torsion springs (item 5, figure 12) within the lower arm pivots.
Both stops are adjusted by loosening their retaining bolt and sliding the stop around
the slot to the required position. If when in work no pressure is required on the bed,
the stops can be adjusted to allow the reaction arm (item 2, figure 11) to move
freely. The support chains (item 3, figure 11) should be adjusted to allow the
moulding board to float when in work but prevent it from dropping too low when the
planter is lifted on the tractor linkage.
The position of the wings (item 4, figure 11) is important to ensure a nicely formed
bed. The outer wings are adjustable for both position and angle. The position of the
wing determines the width of the finished bed. To adjust, loosen the mounting bolts
(item 5, figure 11) and slide the outer wing assembly to the required position.
1.11
OPERATION
Fig 11 Fig 12

The angle at which the wings operate will determine the shape of the bed. To adjust,
loosen the retaining bolt (item 6, figure 11) and rotate the wings to the required
position. The top link (item 7, figure 11) sets the moulding board angle. Initially the
angle should be set at approximately 5°from horizontal. Increasing the angle will
allow more soil under the board. The depth at which the centre plough operates is set
using the top link (item 8, figure 11). The deeper the plough is set, the more soil it will
push sideways. Care should be taken however as going too deep may move the
seed in the bed.
Feed of Potatoes to Cups
When planting, check that the flow of potatoes from the hopper to the feeding cups is
satisfactory and that no 'bridging' occurs. The size of gap between the hopper and
the feed belts (item 1, figure 13) can be altered by adjusting the regulator plates (item
2, figure 13).
Feed Belts
The feed belts (item 1, figure 13) convey the seed potatoes from the hopper to the
feeding pockets. Each feed belt is driven by a hydraulic motor (item 1, figure 14). The
speed of the belts can be varied by turning the flow divider knob (item 2, figure 14).
The higher the number the quicker the belt will run. To create a positive drive, spring
loaded tensioners (item 3, figure 14) maintain constant tension on the belt. To alter
the tension turn the adjuster nuts. Ensure both sides are adjusted evenly.
Do not overtighten the feed belts otherwise premature wear of the
bearings and belts may occur.
The feed belt drive chains (item 1, figure 15) are each fitted with a tensioner (item 2,
figure 15). Adjust the chain tension to be tight enough to give positive drive without
undue stretching. The feed belt motors are actuated by the sensors (item 1, figure
16) situated between the belts and the feeding pockets. When the quantity of
potatoes in one of the feeding pockets is so small that the distance between the
sensor and the potatoes is more than 8cm (or the feeding pocket is empty), the
sensor gives the relay an impulse.
OPE
RATION
1.12
Fig 13 Fig 14

This impulse closes the circuit causing the relevant motor to engage and drive the
feed belt to transport the potatoes to the feeding pocket. When the quantity of
potatoes in the feeding pocket increases such that the distance between the potatoes
and the sensor is approximately 8cm, the sensor gives the relay a new impulse which
then causes the motor to disengage and so stop the drive to the feed belt. The feed
belt will remain at standstill until the quantity of potatoes in the feeding pocket is
small enough that the process is repeated. This way the potato layer in the feeding
pocket is always kept thin and the feeding cups do not damage the potatoes.
Depending on the size of potatoes being planted, it may be necessary to alter the
height of the sensor (item 1, figure 16) in relation to the feeding pocket. The sensor
should be positioned higher for larger potatoes and lower for smaller potatoes. To
adjust the height of the sensor, loosen the set screw (item 2, figure 16) and slide the
support arm (item 3, figure 16) to the required position and re-tighten.
The sensors are adjusted at the factory for a reaction distance of approximately 8cm.
Minor adjustments to the sensing distance can be made by turning the screw located
on the side of the sensor. The sensing distance is increased by turning the screw
clockwise and decreased by turning it anti-clockwise.
Cup Belts
The cup belts pick up the seed from the feeding pocket and transfer them to the
ground. Rapid locking brackets (item 1, figure 17) fitted to each of the tunnels keep
the cup belts tensioned and also allow rapid maintenance of the cup belts. To
slacken the cup belts, push the handles fully down until hanging loose. Each belt is
tensioned by two spring adjusters (item 2, figure 17) which when tensioned correctly
avoid slipping of the belt around the top and bottom rollers. Always adjust both sides
evenly.
Ensure the cup belts are not over-tightened otherwise premature failure
of the bearings and belts may occur. After adjustment ensure the belts
are running in the centre of the rollers so as to avoid damage to the
edge of the belts.
The centre cup belt drive chain (3 row only) is fitted with a tension roller. The drive
chain should be set to give a positive drive.
1.13
OPERATION
Fig 15 Fig 16

Insert Cups
The shape of the feeding cups is designed to pick up the irregular long shaped seed
in a large grade. For a seed grade with a wide range of sizes and long seed, every
alternate cup should be fitted with a medium insert. For a narrow range seed grade
with more irregular shapes a full set of medium inserts should be fitted. For a small
size seed grade, small inserts should be fitted. To attach the inserts, simply press
them into the hole in the centre of the feeding cups.
Seed Monitors
The seed monitors fitted to the top of each tunnel are designed to detect the potatoes
as they pass over the top of the cup belts prior to planting. Each time a potato
activates a monitor the proximity sensor sends an impulse which illuminates the
relevant light for that row on the control box. If during work a light remains off for
longer than a predetermined period, an audible warning will sound indicating that
there are no potatoes in the feeding cups in that row possibly suggesting a 'bridge'.
The time delay can be adjusted between 1 and 3 seconds by turning the timer knob
on the control box. The delay is increased by turning the knob clockwise and
decreased by turning it anti-clockwise. If necessary the timer can be reset to operate
between 1 and 10 seconds by resetting the number 8 dip switch within the control
box.
The seed monitors should be adjusted so that the potatoes in the RH cups of each
cup belt consistently trip the pivot plates (item 1, figure 18) thus activating the
proximity sensors (item 2, figure 18). Initially the bottom stop (item 3, figure 18)
should be adjusted so that a gap of approximately 3mm exists between the pivot
plate (item 1, figure 18) and the inner face of the tunnel. Loosen the proximity sensor
retaining nuts and slowly move the sensor closer to the sensor plate (item 4, figure
18) until it activates. When activated a red light appears on the sensor body. Screw
the sensor out until the sensor deactivates and continue for another half turn then
retighten the retaining nuts. This setting should leave a gap of approximately 1-2mm
between the proximity sensor and the sensor plate. Finally, adjust the top stop (item
5, figure 18) to prevent the sensor plate coming into contact with the proximity
sensor. If everything is adjusted correctly the proximity sensor will be activated and
deactivated with only a slight deflection of the seed pivot plate (item 1, figure 18).
OPERATION
1.14
Fig 17
Fig 18

Cup Belt Agitators
The cup belt agitators control the number of potatoes in a cup. The planter can be
fitted with either manually or electrically adjusted agitators. When planting seed of
good quality and size it is possible to drive faster without compromising planting
accuracy. The agitation in this case can be kept to a minimum. If the seed is uneven
the influence of the agitator can be increased by driving faster. In this case there will
be more movement of the cups and the excess potatoes will drop off. When using
potatoes which tend to fall out of the cups i.e. oversized or oblong etc. the speed
should be slow and agitation set to minimum otherwise gaps may occur.
On manually adjusted agitators, the handles (item 1, figure 19) fitted to the side of
each tunnel are used increase/decrease the amount of agitation. Raising the handle
will increase agitation while lowering it will decrease agitation. The stronger the
agitation the easier the excess potatoes will fall from the cups.
The electrically adjusted agitator is controlled from a tractor mounted control box. A
dial on the control box increases/decreases the speed of the agitator motors situated
within the cup belt tunnels.
1.15
OPERATION
Fig 19