If you want to stop seed wastage and greatly reduce the time and effort it takes to sow seeds on bigger plots of lands, it might be time to get your own air seeder. These precision planting machines come in various types, all of which have been designed for different kinds of crop needs. One way to get what you want and avoid spending too much is to get a used air seeder.
Since Torgerson’s Equipment is the leading air seeder dealer in Montana, we want to help our patrons learn how to select a unit that will work for them! Read through our buying guide below and when you want to check out used air seeders for sale in Montana, get in touch with our sales team for further assistance!
Pay Attention to the Specs
Before you actually spend time inspecting the pre-owned machine, make sure its specs fit your needs. You already know that there are different kinds of air seeders for different kinds of farm needs. Make sure you’re happy with the overall width of the unit. Also ensure that your tractor has the right amount of hydraulic output to handle the model you’re looking at.
Conduct an Outer Inspection
Begin your inspection by taking a good, long look at the used air seeder. You want to see if there are any obvious signs of damage that go beyond scraped paint and minor dings. Walk around the machine and look at the frame. There shouldn’t be any big dents, cracks, or missing components. Also ensure the hoses have no leaks or other signs of damage.
Check the Undercarriage
The wheels of an air seeder keep it moving so you have to check the make and the quality of the tread. The tires should be in good overall condition and not too worn down. These can get pretty spendy to replace so you want to ensure that they’ve got some life left in them. Also inspect the rims to see if there are any cracks or other kinds of damage.
Inspect the Openers
Openers are crucial for the seeder to do its work as they help put the seeds into the soil, so make sure to inspect these closely. They should be the right size and spacing for the kinds of seeds you’re going to be planting or the machine will be of no help to you! You don’t want any missing or damaged opener tips. Remember that rust in the manifolds can plug the openers.
Examine the Air Tank
There should be no sign of rust or hydraulic leaks in the air tank. Ask about the number of compartments and the bushels they can hold. Keep in mind that if you’d like to increase the holding capacity, you can equip the air tank with a saddle tank. If you can, test the air flow by disconnecting the hose from the openers and pointing it upwards. Seeds should be blown at least 12” upwards.
Inspect the Electronics
A used air seeder will generally come with controllers, screens and scales. All of these should be working properly. You want to test these out to ensure they’re ready to work for you without a glitch. See if the wires have worn down or been chewed up by rodents. These can end up being expensive repairs so you want to take the time to check all of them out!
Conduct a Background Check
Make sure you verify the serial number of the used air seeder you’re interested in to find out the year, make and model. Ask for the documents and maintenance records so you can see how well it was maintained by the previous owners. No part should have required extensive care as that can signal a recurring problem with the unit.
Hopefully, these tips will help you land the deal of a lifetime! If you’d like more help or are looking for used air seeders for sale in Montana, contact us at Torgerson’s Equipment and have a chat with one of our friendly staff members. We’re proud to be the preferred used air seeder dealer for all of Montana!
