Adjusting Opener Depth

A39523
A39523-UN-16APR96

A56367
A56367-UN-26MAY05

A - Opener Depth

B - Depth-Adjustment Arm

C - Adjustment Hole

D - Adjustment Hole

The gauge wheel can be positioned for two different application depths; regular 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. In no till and tough field conditions desired depths might not be achieved. Perform in-field checks to determine if fertilizer is being placed at desired depth.

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.
  • 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. Loose dry soil will fill in somewhat, causing the fertilizer to be distributed in a narrow vertical band. Moist or firm soil will create a 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 75 mm (3 in.) in depth. The regular setting will allow up to approximately 100 mm (4 in.) in depth.

To adjust opener depth (A), position depth-adjustment arm (B) cap screw in adjustment hole (C) for approximately 100 mm (4 in.) in depth, and adjustment hole (D) for approximately 75 mm (3 in.) in depth.

OUO6435,0001F99-19-20060621