VRD shown on a 1775NT

The seed variable-rate drive provides the ultimate planting productivity by utilizing one, two or three hydraulic motors (varies by model) to turn the seeding drive shaft. Hydraulic control of the seeding drive allows for on-the-go seeding rate changes right from the display mounted inside the tractor cab. 

Combine this seeding flexibility with the map-based planting option, and seeding rates adjust automatically based on a prescription map.

Single- or dual-motor systems for variable-rate drives are available for all John Deere planters except the 1785 Rigid Frame. Dual- or three-motor drive systems are commonly used on larger (12-row and more) planters and offer the capability of half-width or three-section drive disconnect.

The VRD is available as a factory-installed option for all applicable planter models. Single- or dual-motor systems are available as field-installed attachments for most planter models; however, a three-motor VRD field-installed attachment is not available.

The seed VRD requires the SeedStar™ monitor and a radar input signal. Either tractor or planter radar may be used. Planter radar is ordered separately.

VRD offers the following advantages over common, contact-tire drive systems: 

• Almost instantaneous rate changes; there is no ramp up or ramp down of system as in some competitive systems
• Permits the operator to match seed population based on different soil types or irrigation practices
• John Deere design that provides added operator safety by eliminating any possible drive creep found in some competitive variable rate drive systems

Half-width drive disconnect

The half-width drive disconnect feature is excellent for the producer concerned with controlling seed costs. This feature helps the operator place seed in the desired area and limit the amount of costly overlapped planting. 

The half-width drive disconnect allows the operator to turn off half of the planter at a time for planting end rows, point rows, etc. Variable-rate-equipped planters require two drive motors to utilize the half-width disconnect feature. 

Half-width drive disconnect within frame control

With a 1765, 1765NT, and 1775 12-Row Planter, a single switch box is required for planters that are ordered with variable rate drive and half-width disconnect.

For the 1775NT, 1775NT Central Commodity System (CCS™), and 1795 Front-Folding Planters, the half-width drive disconnect switch is contained within the frame control box, conveniently located in the tractor cab. The function easily shuts off the drive for the left or right half of the planter row-unit seed meters.

Three-width drive disconnect

Three-width drive disconnect control

Three-width drive disconnect is an option on 1725 12-Row Planters and is base equipment on the 1725 16Row30 Planter. This feature is activated by three individual console mounted switches (control box), conveniently located in the tractor cab. The function easily shuts off the planter row-unit seed meters by one-, two-, or three-drive segments independently.

MaxEmerge 5 with 56-L (1.6-bu) hopper plus insecticide

MaxEmerge 5 with mini hopper on CCS™ machines only

The MaxEmerge family of row-units have never seen a more versatile and efficient design until the MaxEmerge 5. The 5-family row-units improve productivity, increase uptime and lower the cost of ownership like never before.

The MaxEmerge 5 row-unit was designed for improved performance and serviceability.

Serviceability and changing crops has always been a focus of downtime and potential seed loss. MaxEmerge XP row-units (shown on the left) are designed with the meter and hopper as one component. The frame covers the meter so that it cannot be accessed. Cleanout of excess seed requires the operator to take the entire hopper off of the row-unit and to turn it upside down. The MaxEmerge 5 meter (shown on the right) is accessible without having to remove the box. The MaxEmerge 5 design allows large hoppers to be cleaned out the same as mini-hoppers, simply by opening the meter dome and catching the seed as it falls out. This improvement allows operators to change seed varieties easier and three times faster than it took them on the previous MaxEmerge XP units and provides more uptime during the tight planting window.

MaxEmerge™ 5 vacuum seed meter

The vacuum meter system gently pulls and holds individual seeds to the holes of the seed disk for population control and spacing accuracy, equaling better crop stands and profit. Vacuum seed meters can plant a wide variety of crops and seed types by simply changing seed disks and adjusting vacuum level. Vacuum seed meters are available for planters with MaxEmerge 5 row-units.

Additional features of the vacuum seed meter include:

• One moving component (the seed metering disk) for minimum maintenance requirements
• Meter located at each row-unit for accurate seed delivery
• Good hopper seed flow characteristics for longer operating time per hopper fill
• Low airflow in meter so seed treatments are not removed

Pro-Series™ seed pool

MaxEmerge 5 seed pool

The MaxEmerge 5 meter shape has also been redesigned for better seed flow. The mini-hopper design allows the planter to successfully operate on side hills up to 14 degrees.

Vacuum meter hub and latching handle

MaxEmerge 5 vacuum meter with disk

Both the MaxEmerge 5 vacuum meters are equipped with a heavy-duty hub spring and disk latching handle. The spring ensures the seed disk stays properly positioned when operating flat-style seed disks and higher vacuum levels. Proper seed disk positioning means repeatable seed singulation, time after time. The disk-latching handle is designed for easy operation and effortless seed disk changeover. The hub is also machined to tight tolerances to further ensure alignment of metering components.

Operating characteristics of vacuum seed meter

Operating speed with seed tube technology

The vacuum seed meter is capable of operating at faster planting speeds than mechanical meters. However, planting accuracy will be influenced by seedbed conditions and the operating characteristics of the seed meter. Rough seedbeds and fast planting speeds (above 8.9 km/h [5.5 mph]) typically deteriorate seed placement accuracies when using seed tube technology.

The chart illustrates the effect operating speed has on population when using the vacuum meter. The operating band (color area) illustrates how the vacuum meter performs in relation to the desired population (indicated by horizontal line). The width of the band is due to various sizes and shapes of seeds and planting rate variations.

When operating on slopes above 15 degrees, increased or decreased population may result. To minimize this effect, reduce speed and consider using a flat style seed disk with increased vacuum level.

Vacuum meter seed disks

The ProMAX 40 Flat Disk: The flat-disk planting solution field-proven to work since 1991

The design of the ProMAX 40 Flat Disk position allows seed to be released from the optimum position above the seed tube. The flush-face seed tube allows the seed to drop uninterrupted through the tube.

The ProMAX 40 Flat Disk utilizes flat holes and a higher vacuum level to ensure every hole is populated with a seed. A double eliminator gently removes multiple seeds at each hole for precise population control. A knockout wheel makes certain that each hole is clear of any debris after the seed is released from the disk.

Flat-style and cell seed disks shown

The unique cell disk design allows planting a variety of seed sizes without any additional parts or individual meter adjustments. Another advantage of cell-type seed disks is the lower vacuum requirement compared to flat-style seed disks. Lower vacuum levels mean less hydraulic demand from the tractor. Most planting conditions call for a flat disk, if you are limited in hydraulic capacity, cell disks are recommended.  

Double eliminator

For difficult to singulate seeds, a flat seed disk and double eliminator is a viable alternative to traditional cell-type seed disks. By design, a flat seed disk requires higher levels of vacuum than a cell-type disk because there is no pocket or cell to hold the seed. The higher vacuum level will pull more than one seed to the holes in the seed disk. The double eliminator is set to cover a portion of the hole in the seed disk and is the mechanism to knock multiple seeds away as the disk rotates.

Double eliminators are required with flat-type seed disks only and should not be used with cell-type seed disks. The knockout wheel is also recommended in conjunction with the double eliminator and flat seed disk to ensure seed is ejected from the disk.

Flat and celled type seed metering disks are available to allow planting a wide variety of seed types.

• Corn (field, popcorn or sweet corn)
• Soybeans
• Cotton
• Sorghum
• Sugar beets
• Sunflowers
• Edible beans/peas
• Peanuts
• Melons, squash, cucumbers

Mini-hopper row-units, which are used only with the Central Commodity System (CCS™) are compatible only with crops that the CCS is approved to plant.

• Corn
• Popcorn
• Sweet corn
• Soybeans
• Sunflowers
• Sorghum
• Cotton

NOTE: Due to small seed size and low planting populations, sugar beets can be planted with mini-hopper style meters by adding hopper extensions and not using the CCS tank. These hopper extensions can also be used for planting test plots.
 

Hopper shutoff

Also, to help with meter access of 56-L and 106-L (1.6-bu and 3-bu) hoppers the hopper shutoff feature was added. With the shutoff engaged, the meter cover can be opened without first having to remove all of the seeds from the hopper. Lever down, the seed flow is on, lever horizontal and the seed flow is off.

MaxEmerge 5 mini-hopper

There are significant changes to the MaxEmerge 5 Mini-Hopper. One update is the straight feed from the Central Commodity System (CCS™) hose to the mini-hopper to ensure a continuous free flow of seeds. This design change reduces the potential for plugging issues with larger seed size and the use of seed treatments. By drawing air from the CCS tank the vacuum source is now cleaner, preventing meter debris buildup.

Ductile iron-cast shank

Ductile iron casting is a unique high-tech process that produces a single-piece row-unit shank this enables alignment from the seed trench to the closing wheel.

The row-unit head is also designed using the ductile iron-casting process. The row-unit head provides the mating joints between the row-unit parallel arms and the row-unit shank. It is also the upper attaching point for the seed meter and seed hopper.

Ductile iron casting of the row-unit shank and head assembly provides a row-unit that is 25 percent stronger than other competitive welded row-units.

One of the trademark capabilities of John Deere planters has always been the ability of the Tru-Vee™ openers to provide an ideal seed furrow.

The thickness of the Tru-Vee opener blade is 3.5 mm (0.14 in.) this blade thickness will provide extended wear life.

The MaxEmerge 5 row-unit also provides better Tru-Vee opener bearings for longer life. The double-row ball bearing provides up to three times the wear life as the single-row bearing.

Depth adjustment T-handle

John Deere planters provide consistent seed depth control in all field conditions. Depth control is a function of the Tru-Vee openers, the downforce system, and the gauge wheel assembly.

The gauge wheel itself is made of durable nylon composition with a concave profile. This profile gently firms the sides of the seed furrow, ensuring a well-defined trench. The shape reduces rocks and residue being picked up and thrown onto the drive chains and row-units, and helps to prevent rooster tailing of soil.

The bolt-through design utilizes an open bearing in the gauge wheel that allows an attaching bolt to pass through the wheel to the threaded hole in the gauge wheel arm. This simple bolt-through design provides for a positive attachment of the gauge wheel to the gauge wheel arm and allows quick removal of the gauge wheel for service.

Adjustability of the row-unit is critical to good performance. More available downforce options than any row unit in the industry

• Adjustable heavy-duty downforce, four settings, 0 kg (0 lb), 57 kg (125 lb), 113 kg (250 lb), and 181 kg (400 lb) of downforce
• Pneumatic downforce, infinitely variable from 0 to 181 kg (0 to 400 lb) of downforce
• Active pneumatic downforce adjusts automatically for changing ground conditions from 0 to 181 kg (0 to 400 lb) of downforce

Rubber tire closing system

Cast wheel closing system

Rubber tire closing systems are used for most conventional, minimum-till, and no-till planting conditions. The spacing between the wheels is adjustable so the closing system can meet the needs of those who want to plant small seeds at shallow depths.

The wheels can also be staggered fore and aft to enhance residue flow. Four levels of spring force are available and are easily set with the integrated T-handle adjustment. A lower force spring can be obtained from parts, if a lower amount of force is required.

Additional closing wheel options include:

• Cast closing wheels, for tough-to-close conditions
• Disk closing, for shallow planting depths
• Closing wheel frame less wheels, for growers desiring to use aftermarket closing wheels

Designed with conventional, mulch-till, and no-till planting conditions in mind

1765NT Drawn Wing-Fold Planter

1765 12Row30 Drawn Wing-Fold Planter

Both the 1765 and 1765NT (narrow transport) feature a rugged 177.8-mmx177.8-mm (7-in. x 7-in.) frame, wheel module lift system, and tire contact drive system. The 12Row30 flexible-frame model feature a two-section, center flexing frame design that flex 20 degrees up and 20 degrees down. The 1765 and 1765NT are recommended for conventional, mulch-till, and most no-till planting conditions.

The 1765 Planter family is available in the following frame configurations including both rigid and flex options:

• 8Row30 Narrow Transport (NT) rigid frame
• 12Row30 rigid frame
• 12Row30 flex frame

Frame functionality

1765 Flex center frame weight bracket

For 1765 and 1765NT Wing-Fold Planters that are operating less fertilizer, or would require more frame weight for tough soil conditions, additional weight can be added to the center frame. A mounting bracket and six weights add approximately 272.2 kg (600 lb) to the planter. This weight prevents the frame from flexing up in the center when planting.

Use AA41141 ballast bracket and six tractor front end weights. Attach the bracket with seven 19M7597 (M20x50 bolts) and 14M7277 nuts.

Tractor attaching options

1765 and 1765NT Planters offer one hitch length

Adjustable hitch settings to match tractor height

The 1765 and 1765NT Wing-Fold Planters have one hitch length available: 373.4 cm (147 in.) for planters used with a dual-wheel-equipped tractor. The long 373.8-cm (147-in.) hitch options are available for all frame widths and can be equipped with either a clevis (code 1457) or ring (code 1456) style hitch link. Order the style of hitch link desired.

Hitches are adjustable, providing three hitch settings to match tractor drawbar height, resulting in level planter operation.

Transportability

1765NT Planter transports at 3.7 m (12 ft)

Narrow Transport (NT) planters provide a compact transport width of only 3.7 m (12 ft).

Wing folding of all 1765 Planters is hydraulically-controlled. The independent marker option and hydraulic-fold option are plumbed together using a diverter valve (code 1514) when both options are ordered (reduces selective control valve requirements by one).

Fertilizer capabilities

Both the 1765 and 1765NT Planters can be equipped with a liquid fertilizer system. Eight-row configurations carry two fertilizer tanks totaling 300 gallons of capacity. The 1760 12Row30 model can handle 450 gallons of fertilizer in two tanks. 

The use of the single-disk, unit-mounted injection fertilizer opener, or the frame-mounted, single-disk fertilizer opener makes the 1765 and 1765NT no-till capable. The 1765 equipped with the unit-mounted, double-disk fertilizer opener is not well suited for no-till applications and opener penetration may be limited by soil conditions. Frame-mounted, single-disk fertilizer opener is only compatible with 1765NT Planters.

RowCommand controls seed output

RowCommand on a MaxEmerge™ 5 row-unit

RowCommand on a chain drive MaxEmerge 5 row-unit

Controlling input costs and improving productivity are key producer requirements today. RowCommand is an effective, integrated John Deere solution designed to meet these intensifying needs. The RowCommand system manages seed output, reduces yield drag, and improves harvest capabilities on all Pro-Shaft™ driven row-units, and chain-driven MaxEmerge 5.

NOTE: Chain-drive RowCommand is only compatible with planters equipped with pneumatic downforce systems. On planters equipped with the heavy-duty downforce springs, potential chain interference may result and is not recommended.

NOTE: Chain-drive RowCommand requires some modification to brackets in order to function with corn finger pickup meters.

NOTE: Pro-Shaft drive RowCommand is compatible on MaxEmerge 5 row-units with vacuum and corn finger pickup meters. For mini hopper row-units, RowCommand is compatible on vacuum meters only and is not compatible on corn finger pickup meters. Pro-Series XP row-units with corn finger pickup meters are not compatible with RowCommand.

RowCommand controls seed output by incorporating individual, low amperage clutches inside the Pro-Shaft and chain-driven gearboxes. Clutches are completely enclosed within the gearbox housing to protect them from the elements and harsh operating conditions.

When power is supplied, either manually or through John Deere Section Control software, clutches disengage the seed meters and seed flow stops. Controlling seed output at individual rows reduces overplanting in point rows and maximizes seed placement when entering/exiting headlands.

Components and operation

EPMs shown on a 1775 NT Planter

RowCommand clutch on MaxEmerge 5 with 3-bu hopper

RowCommand is a simple and efficient solution to control individual row planting. This system does not utilize air to operate; therefore, no compressor, air lines, or valve modules are required.

RowCommand utilizes low-voltage controller area network (CAN) messaging to signal power to the desired clutches to stop planting or eliminates power to resume planting.

This means very little power is used in normal planting conditions, and in the event a clutch fails electrically, the meter will continue to plant.

The RowCommand system requires the following five basic components to operate: 

Clutches are protected within the sealed Pro-Shaft and chain-driven gearboxes for years of trouble-free operation and simple installation or removal. RowCommand has true individual-row control of up to 16 clutches or sections for planters larger than 16 rows.

Unique to RowCommand, the 16 available control sections can be configured based on operator preferences. For example, on a 1775 NT 24-Row Planter, every two rows can be paired together for a total of 12 control sections, or control the outermost eight rows individually and the remaining inner rows paired together for 16 control sections.

While SeedStar with RowCommand has 16 control sections, a minimum of 152-cm (60-in.) wide sections are recommended for optimum Swath Control Pro™ solution capabilities. As with other Swath Control Pro products, a SF 2 signal is the minimum level of accuracy recommend for operation.

Pro-Shaft drive RowCommand planters

RowCommand is available as a factory-installed option or as an attachment for field conversion attachments for the following Pro-Shaft drive planter models (see chart below).

Chain drive RowCommand planters

In terms of planter compatibility, RowCommand for chain drive is designed for the following planter model configurations equipped with pneumatic downforce systems.

Chain drive RowCommand and heavy-duty downforce

Chain interference with heavy-duty downforce

As seen in the picture, chain interference may result when operating chain-drive RowCommand on planters equipped with short and long parallel arms and heavy-duty downforce springs.

NOTE: Chain-drive RowCommand is only compatible with planters equipped with pneumatic downforce systems. On planters equipped with the heavy-duty downforce springs, potential chain interference may result and is not recommended.

Chain-drive RowCommand with corn finger pickup meters

Bracket material removal

Due to the design characteristics of the chain drive RowCommand clutch, some modification to the corn finger pickup meter drive bracket is required. As seen in the picture to the left, some material needs to be removed from the front of the meter drive bracket in order for the chain-drive RowCommand clutch to have sufficient space for installation.

NOTE: Chain drive RowCommand requires some modification to brackets in order to function with corn finger pickup meters.

RowCommand ordering information

To add RowCommand to a model year 2009 and newer planter model listed above is simple. Pro-Shaft drive attachments for field conversion and chain drive attachments for field conversion are available by planter model to add the appropriate number of clutches, EPMs, brackets, hardware and row-unit harnesses. For complete installation and part detail for the RowCommand conversion, please use the RowCommand compatibility tool per specific planter model.
 
RowCommand is compatible and available for model year 2003 (serial number 700101) to 2008 (725101) planter models listed above. In addition to the attachment for field conversion attachment, a planter mainframe harness, SeedStar 2 controller (wedge box), and additional CAN harnesses are needed.

Integrated Swath Control Pro

Coupling RowCommand with Swath Control Pro provides the ultimate in precision planting and productivity. One company, one integrated solution are what we offer by incorporating Swath Control Pro capabilities within the SeedStar 2 wedge box (controller). Unlike previous systems, no rate controller, additional harnessing, or components are required to achieve automated individual-row control.

SeedStar 2 monitoring, RowCommand, and Swath Control Pro activation from John Deere Precision Ag Technologies are all that is needed when ordering.

System requirements

RowCommand is a simple and efficient means to control individual row planting through the use of low-voltage electric clutches. When activated, each clutch consumes no more than 0.5 amps. By design, power is only supplied to the clutch when a signal is received to stop planting. In a normal planting condition, no power is supplied and the clutch is de-energized. 

Power for the RowCommand system is provided from the 9-pin ISO implement connector. All late-model 8X00 and 9X00 Series John Deere Tractors equipped with the 9-pin ISO implement connector are capable of supplying ample power for system operation.

Along with ample system power, a GreenStar display and SeedStar monitoring are required for operation and control interface. The GreenStar display is where system setup, control settings, and manual control functions are performed.

Crop yields have increased through the years along with the amount of residue left in the field after harvest. At the same time, tillage practices have changed, including different tillage operations which maintain large amounts of surface residue, and even no till practices. Row cleaners are an essential tool in managing this increased amount of residue.

John Deere seeding group offers a variety of row cleaner options to meet the needs of a producer's operation. Compatibility varies by model, row spacing, and other planter equipment.

Screw-adjust unit-mounted row cleaner

Screw-adjust unit-mounted row cleaner

The screw-adjust unit-mounted row cleaner is mounted directly to the face plate of the row-unit, placing the ground engaging components just in front of the row-unit opener blades and depth gauge wheels. This close proximity allows the gauge wheels to control the depth of the row cleaner as well as the row-unit. This compact design also allows greater compatibility with fertilizer openers and other planter attachments.

SharkTooth® wheels are standard equipment on the unit-mounted row cleaner. The swept-tooth design of the wheel provides a clear path for the row-unit openers while resisting residue buildup on the wheel. The screw adjustment knob is accessible through the top of the parallel arms, providing convenient access for adjustments. The row cleaner can be adjusted in 1.6-mm (0.06-in.) increments, providing plenty of flexibility to meet the needs of changing conditions.

Floating row cleaner with unit-mounted coulter

Floating row cleaner with unit-mounted coulter

The floating row cleaner allows a row cleaner to be used in conjunction with a unit-mounted coulter. This combination is often desired in heavy residue loads and tough reduced tillage planting conditions. The row cleaner provides a clear path for the row-unit, while the unit-mounted coulter helps penetrate tough soil conditions.

Accommodating the unit-mounted coulter means the residue wheels are farther forward from the row-unit face plate than in the case of the screw adjust row cleaner. To maintain performance, this row cleaner has the capability to float above a defined minimum depth.

Standard depth-gauging bands on the wheels allow the row cleaner wheels to float independently of the row unit openers, allowing both to perform in varying terrain. The unit may also be set in a fixed position by simply pinning through the bracket if desired. This row cleaner also features SharkTooth wheels as standard equipment.

The floating row cleaner and unit-mounted coulters are available on many planters as factory-installed equipment. As compatibility and details vary by model, review the following links for information on specific planter models.

• 1705, 1715, 1725, 1765NT, 1765, 1775 Flex, 1785 floating row cleaner
• 1775NT floating row cleaner
• 1795 floating row cleaner

SharkTooth is a trademark of Yetter Manufacturing.

NOTE: Screw-adjust row cleaners are not compatible with MaxEmerge™ 5e row-units with long parallel arms.

NOTE: DB models have the option for either unit-mounted coulter, screw-adjust row cleaners, or pneumatic row cleaners (only compatabile with MaxEmerge 5e or equipped ExactEmerge™ models). The DB60T is only available with less row cleaner option.

1765NT tire contact drive system

The tire contact drive for mechanical seed transmissions is a great fit for the mid-to-large planter operator concerned with quick transport capabilities, lower maintenance, and positive seed meter drives.  Tire contact drive system is a simple, reliable, and efficient way to power seed transmission and meters. 

The tire contact system drives the seed transmission mounted above the inner planter ground drive tire. A turf tire engages the ground drive tire when the planter is lowered--automatically turning the seed transmission and seed meters. Automatic drive disconnect occurs when the planter is raised and the turf tire separates from the ground-engaging tire. The system eliminates clutches, countershafts, and manual transport disconnects needed on direct ground drive systems. Drive chains and sprockets are moved up and out of the soil and residue zone for excellent reliability.

Tire contact drive systems are base equipment on the 1765, 1765NT, 1775 12-R and 1785 planters. Contact between the ground-engaging tire and seed transmission tire is positive. On all models mentioned a spring set applies downforce of the turf tire assembly onto the ground-engaging tire. System slippage is also minimized because the planter drive tires track in the tractor tire tracks. Frame designs differ (such as tire width) and the following different down force requirements exist:

• 1765 8-Row drives have 207 kg (457 lb) of downforce.
• 1765 and 1775 12-Row drives have 254 kg (560 lb) of downforce. 

The 1765 model uses one rear-mounted seed transmission. However, if the planter also has the fertilizer option, there is another rear-mounted transmission for the fertilizer drive. The 1785 Rigid Planters utilize one front-mounted seed transmission and if the planter is equipped with the liquid fertilizer option, another front-mounted transmission is utilized. The 1775 12-R Planter utilizes two rear-mounted seed transmissions. Another rear-mounted transmission is used if the planter has the fertilizer option.

Integrated innovation--that is what operators will appreciate with the SeedStar 2 monitoring system and GreenStar™ 2 (GS2) Display. An increasing number of acres combined with rising seed costs drive the need to easily understand planter functions and monitor performance. It is all about making every seed count and that is what SeedStar 2 delivers.

The SeedStar 2 monitoring system is a full-feature, color, seed population monitor used in conjunction with the GreenStar family of displays (Generation 4 CommandCenter™ controls with premium activation, GS 2630, GS 2600 Display or the entry-level GS2 1800 Display). Conveniently, SeedStar 2 planting functions are fully integrated with the full spectrum of AMS applications—guidance, coverage maps, and field documentation can be shown all on one display.

When a SeedStar 2 system is used on a planter, there is no need for a ComputerTrak™ monitor. All vital planting information is displayed in one central, easy-to-read location.

SeedStar 2 features

SeedStar 2 full-screen planter run page

SeedStar 2 is a user-friendly system that has retained all the valued features of SeedStar and incorporated the next generation of enhancements. For example, on-screen, color indicators shows drive engagement/disengagement status. In addition, three color (black, orange, or red) planter at a glance bars visually inform the operator of row population status.

Not only does SeedStar 2 incorporate the use of color, it also utilizes an intuitive icon and folder based operator interface. Icons are easy to understand across many languages and reduce the need for text. Icons for planter main run page, planter setup, seed/crop setup, totals, and diagnostics are located in the soft-key region of the display. Setup is performed by selecting the appropriate icon and then choosing the tabs to enter/select information.

The SeedStar 2 monitor offers all of the features and functionality of the ComputerTrak™ 350 monitor and much more. SeedStar 2 monitors the following planter functions:

• Row population/spacing
• Row failure
• Average population (entire planter and by variable-rate drive [VRD] motor section)
• Vacuum level
• Fertilizer pressure
• Acre counter
• Total acreage
• Tractor speed

In addition, planter operational information is available within the SeedStar 2 monitor system. Such operational information includes population charts, seed disk vacuum settings, and setting recommendations for the piston pump liquid fertilizer system.

All SeedStar 2 systems have the capability, through a single controller, to perform both the seed monitoring and variable rate drive functions. SeedStar 2 monitoring is required for VRD population control. Even though the planter may not be equipped with SeedStar 2 VRD, the SeedStar 2 monitoring system is available and will allow for future installation of VRD.

SeedStar 2 enhancements

SeedStar 2 half-screen planter run page

SeedStar 2 showing half-width disconnect status

The SeedStar 2 enhanced planter features include:

• GreenStar 2 display integration. Eliminates the need to operate the GS2 2600 Display in the original GreenStar monitor mode or the use of dual displays.
• User-friendly, intuitive icons
• Half- or full-screen run page
• On-screen, color drive status; a quick glance at the display tells the operator if the half-width disconnect is engaged or disengaged.
• Three-color planter-at-a-glance population bar. A black bar indicates that population is close to target and within established limits; orange shows the population is above/below the alarm set point; red signals the population is out of operating range or is not planting.
• Three-piece, color VRD indicator. Each piece of the VRD gear pie turns green when the wheel motion sensor is active, planter is lowered, and drives are engaged.

SeedStar monitoring original features

SeedStar 2 retains all those SeedStar features that producers value and have come to expect:

• Planter at a glance. Allows operator to view relative population levels of all rows on one screen.
• Automatic valve calibration. With the SeedStar VRD, this is now completed automatically. There is no longer a need to manually calibrate the hydraulic valves.
• Increased population updates. SeedStar will now update population levels once a second at planter start up then approximately once every three seconds.
• Mapping of actual seed rates. When combined with Field Doc™ system, actual and target seeding rates can now be mapped in Apex™ software.
• Reprogrammable utilizing CAN via Service ADVISOR™ diagnostics system.
• Improved diagnostics/event recorder. On SeedStar VRD planters, additional diagnostic information is available, as well as an event recorder to capture system performance data at a specific point in time.
• Ability to run motors at different population levels. On SeedStar VRD, operators running multiple motor systems can run each motor at a different speed, allowing different population levels within a planter.
• User-configurable high fertilizer pressure alarm. Allows the operator to be warned when fertilizer pressure reaches a specific level.
• Automatic quick-start for SeedStar VRD. No longer does the operator need to press the quick-start button on end row turns to resume planting.
• Automatic tractor speed source selection. When equipped with an 8000/9000 Series Tractor, the system selects the radar speed or allows for manual speed input selection.

Heavy-duty adjustable downforce springs

Heavy-duty adjustable downforce spring

Planter row-unit downforce is an important factor to ensure consistent and proper depth control. The heavy-duty adjustable downforce feature provides up to 400 lb of downforce. There are four settings available to allow the user to choose the amount of downforce required for the condition: 0 lb, 125 lb, 250 lb, and 400 lb.

Compatibility: 1705, 1715, 1725, 1735, 1755, 1765, 1765NT, 1775 Flex, and 1785

Standard pneumatic downforce system

Pneumatic downforce provides convenient, simple adjustment of downforce for the whole planter from one location. The amount of downforce applied is infinitely adjustable from 0 to 181.80 kg (0 to 400 lb). Pneumatic downforce provides more consistent downforce throughout the range of row-unit travel than mechanical spring downforce systems.

Features include:

• 9.5-mm (3/8-in.) air delivery line instead of the 6.4-mm (1/4-in.) line used on model year 2010 and older planters.
• Air compressor assembly increased duty cycle. With this compressor, it provides a 47 percent increase in maximum air flow delivery compared to the prior air compressor.
• Pneumatic air bags with 9.5-mm (3/8-in.) air line inlets that have greater durability.

Pneumatic downforce spring

Each row-unit has a single rubber air bag located between the parallel arms. The air bags are hooked in parallel so that air can be added or released from all rows at once from one location.

The individual pneumatic downforce air bag assemblies, air compressor units, and 9.5-mm (3/8-in.) delivery lines are also available as an attachment for field conversion.

Pneumatic downforce compressor and gauge

An improved compressor is used to charge the pneumatic system. This compressor can be located on the planter frame or in the tractor cab if desired. A gauge at the compressor indicates the amount of downforce being applied.

From the factory, integral planter models with pneumatic downforce will have an improved air compressor assembly with an in-cab mounting bracket, except the 1725 16-row and 1725 Central Commodity System (CCS™ ) twin row planters will have the air compressor assembly mounted on the planter frame. For drawn planter models, the 1755, 1765, 1765NT, 1775 Front-Fold, and 1785 Drawn Planters will have the air compressor assembly installed either on the outer hitch or wing frame members when the pneumatic downforce system is installed.

Base equipment on: 1705, 1715, 1725, 1735, 1755, 1765, 1765NT, 1775 and 1785. 

Integrated pneumatic downforce system

The functional features of the integrated system are the same as the standard pneumatic system, explained above, with the addition of control through the GreenStar™ display.

System control with GreenStar™ (GS) display

Pneumatic downforce control in GS2 display

Air compressor mounted on 1775NT outer hitch

On 1725 16-row, 1725 Central Commodity System (CCS™) TR, 1775NT, 1775NT CCS, 1795, DR, and DB Series Planter models, the air compressor will be mounted on the outer hitch or frame assembly. Since the air compressor assembly is mounted on the outer hitch (as noted in the picture above) or frame, adjustments for row-unit downforce and related system pressures will be made electronically with the GS Display.

When adjusting the amount of row-unit downforce using the GS Display, the operator will select the amount of downforce (lb) to be applied across the planter. Depending on the soil conditions at hand, the operator might need to adjust the relative amount of row-unit downforce being applied during the planting operation. The integrated pneumatic downforce controls within the GS Display will only allow for set-point operation and not automatic control as the planter is operating in different soil conditions. The pneumatic downforce system does not have the capability to automatically adjust downforce.

On-board air storage

Onboard air storage installed on 1775NT 24R30

The 1725 16-row, 1725 CCS TR, 1775NT, 1775NT CCS, 1795, DR, and DB Series planters will have onboard air storage to increase the overall response time when making a row-unit down force adjustment from the GS Display. The onboard air storage is comprised of a 19-L (5-gal.) storage tank with valve assembly.

Base equipment on: 1725 CCS, 1725 16-row, 1725T, 1775NT, 1775NT CCS, 1795, DR, and DB Series Planters with MaxEmerge™ 5 row units. MaxEmerge 5e and ExactEmerge™ equipped planters come with active pneumatic downforce in base.

Active pneumatic downforce

Active downforce compressor assembly

Hydraulic motor

A hydraulically driven compressor works with the SeedStar™ 3 HP system and SeedStar XP system to automate downforce control. Just set the row-unit target margin value and the active pneumatic downforce system works automatically. The system will make sure the planter maintains this value, achieving precise soil penetration, and consistent planting depth, without sidewall soil compaction. From the factory the system is set at 100 lb target downforce margin, but may be modified for varying field conditions. This frees the operator from constantly making manual downforce adjustments as conditions change.

This system offers a split rank control feature for 1795 and DB Split-Row Planters. On split row planters active downforce will control the front and rear rows independently. This compensates for differing downforce requirements between the ranks that can be caused from things like different tillage or insecticide attachments and will help maintain an accurate planting depth and consistent margin across all the rows.

Active pneumatic downforce is available as factory installed or as an attachment for field conversion.

SeedStar XP row-unit downforce planter run page

SeedStar XP downforce planter run page

Active downforce control is integrated into SeedStar XP and SeedStar 3HP monitoring systems.

Margin is the amount of weight riding on the depth gauge wheels that ensures desired firming of the seedbed as set by the operator.

Once a target margin has been defined, enter the value into SeedStar XP or SeedStar 3HP and let active downforce do the rest. The system will actively adjust the air pressure in the air bags to maintain a constant margin across the planter. The changes in air pressure will change the amount of downforce placed on the row unit compensating and reacting for varying conditions through the field whether it is different tillage practices, soil types, or moisture.

Down force and margin example

A) Margin – Amount of additional down force applied to a row unit above and beyond what is required for penetration to achieve planting depth. This additional weight will ride on the depth gauge wheels.   120 + 80 = (200 – 150) = 23 kg (50 lb) of margin

B) Weight of row-unit - 54 kg (120 lbs)

C) Downforce – Force that is applied to the row-unit by the air bag circuit - 36 kg (80 lb)

D) Resistance from soil - 68 kg (150 lb)

Hydraulically driven compressor

Hydraulic motor

Pneumatic valve

The hydraulically driven air compressor can deliver up to eight times the air flow allowing for more and faster downforce changes to be made. This more robust design features a 38-L (10-gal.) storage tank across all models with active downforce.

At approximately 4 gpm, hydraulic demands are low and ties into the machine’s lift and Central Commodity System (CCS™) hydraulic circuit so it does not require any additional selective control valves (SCVs). The SeedStar XP and SeedStar 3HP monitoring systems work with the compressor and valve assembly to regulate air to downforce springs enabling the active control.

Another feature of John Deere active downforce is the ability for the pneumatic valve to independently control split rank machines. This system senses the downforce needs from the front and rear ranks separately and independently adjust air pressures with the dual rank pneumatic valve when equipped. Active pneumatic downforce requires SeedStar XP or SeedStar 3HP to enable active control.

Base equipment on: All MaxEmerge™ 5e and ExactEmerge™ equipped planter models.

Individual row hydraulic downforce (IRHD)

IRHD has been specifically designed to meet the needs of producers that are looking to adjust to the toughest field conditions and provide maximum yield potential from field to field, season after season. IRHD works as a closed-loop downforce system that reacts quickly on an individual row basis to changing soil conditions supporting increased ground contact, which can lead to improved seed depth consistency. When setting planter downforce margin the system will apply the needed downforce by row to maintain ground contact. From the factory the margin will be set at 100 lb, changes may be required based on varying field conditions.

The system allows growers to maintain gauge wheel ground contact leading to desired seed depth placement. IRHD can adjust five times per second and make adjustments of 45.4 kg (100 lb) in less than a second. The system has a total range of applied downforce from 50 lb to 450 lb and utilizes the power beyond circuit on the tractor. IRHD is 58 percent faster than active pneumatic downforce solution. Fast reaction and increased ground contact can lead to improved emergence. With uniform emergence some studies have shown a yield impact from 5% to 9%.

Optional equipment on: 1775NT, 1795 and DB models with MaxEmerge™ 5e and ExactEmerge™ row units.

Seed variable-rate drive provides the ultimate planting productivity by utilizing one, two, or three hydraulic motors (varies by model) to turn the seeding drive shaft.  Hydraulic control of the seeding drive allows for on-the-go seeding rate changes right from the display mounted inside the tractor cab. Combine this seeding flexibility with the map-based planting option, and seeding rates adjust automatically based on the prescribed map. 

Variable-rate drive offers the following advantages over common, ground, or contact-tire drive systems: 

• Rate changes are almost instantaneous; no ramp up or ramp down of system as in some competitive systems
• Permits the producer to match seed population based on different soil types or irrigation practices
• John Deere design provides added operator safety by eliminating any possible drive creep found in some competitive variable-rate drive systems

1755 equipped with variable-rate drive

1765NT equipped with variable-rate drive

Single- or dual-motor systems for variable-rate drives are available for all John Deere planters except the 1785 Rigid Frame. Variable-rate drive is available as a factory-installed option for all applicable planter models.

Single- or dual-motor systems are available as field-installed attachments for most planter models; however, a three-motor variable-rate drive field-installed attachment is not available.

Seed variable-rate drive requires the SeedStar™ monitor and a radar input signal. Either tractor or planter radar may be used. Planter radar is ordered separately.

NOTE: Peanut seed meter disks require the Variable Drive Transmission.