Adjusting Opener Depth

The gauge wheel can be positioned for three different application depths; regular, mid-range and shallow. Seedbed conditions will dictate the optimum setting for maintaining the most consistent fertilizer placement. The regular setting should be used for most conditions except when inadequate opener penetration and rocks are an issue.

If fertilizer is not at desired depth, check the following before changing the depth adjustment.

  • The gauge wheel is in contact with, but not pressing into the ground. Adjust down pressure spring if necessary.
  • The dry fertilizer spout isn't centered over trench. Reposition spout if necessary.
  • The dry fertilizer spout height is not set correctly for dry soil or windy conditions. Move spout downward until it is approximately 15 mm (5/8 in.) above the trench.
  • In wet ground conditions, position spout upward until it is approximately 25 mm (1 in.) above the trench to help prevent plugging.

NOTE: The concentration pattern of fertilizer will vary with soil conditions. Dry, loose soil will fill in somewhat, causing the fertilizer to be distributed in a narrow vertical band. Moist or firm soil will create a more well-defined furrow, causing the fertilizer to be concentrated near the bottom of the opener furrow.

Depending upon soil conditions, the shallow setting will apply fertilizer up to approximately 50 mm (2 in.) in depth. The mid-range setting will allow up to approximately 75 mm (3 in.) in depth. The regular setting will allow up to approximately 100 mm (4 in.) in depth.

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NOTE: On left-hand openers, cap screw (E) has left-hand threads. On right-hand openers, cap screw (E) has right-hand threads. Cap screws should tighten in same direction as rotation of wheel.

To adjust dimension (A), position depth adjustment cap screw (B) in the proper hole.

MAXIMUM DEPTH-Locate adjustment cap screw in hole (C).

MID-RANGE DEPTH-Locate adjustment cap screw in hole (G).

MINIMUM DEPTH-Locate adjustment cap screw in hole (D).

Gauge wheel can be installed in hole (F) for extra clearance for row unit attachments and countershaft clutches.


A-Depth Adjustment
B-Cap Screw
C-Hole
D-Hole
E-Cap Screw
F-Hole
G-Hole

A39523
A39520
A35167

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