Use of Talc and Graphite Lubricant

CAUTION:

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Talc-graphite lubricant is required for optimum performance of the vacuum meter and CCS™ system. To obtain consistent seed release from the seed bowl and improve spacing accuracy, properly lubricate the seed.

FARMER-APPLIED SEED TREATMENT

Farmer-applied seed treatments are NOT recommended.

IMPORTANT: Avoid sticky seeds and meter components. It is possible for seeds to become sticky due to chemical reactions between farmer-applied seed treatments and commercially applied treatments. If farmer-applied treatments are used, follow recommendations of chemical manufacturer carefully. Avoid treatments with high oil content. Certain temperature and humidity levels also complicate material compatibility.

IMPORTANT: Talc-graphite mix has to be thoroughly incorporated in tanks and hoppers, so all seeds are evenly coated.

IMPORTANT: Some insecticide-treated seed is coated with commercially applied graphite. It is important to add the recommended amount of talc-graphite mix, in addition to commercially applied graphite.

IMPORTANT: At the beginning of each season, add talc-graphite mix to empty CCS tanks. Also, add 9 mL (0.6 tbsp.) or (0.3 oz.) to each empty row unit mini-hopper.

If farmer-applied treatment is used, apply seed treatment to seed before the lubricant and allow seed treatment to dry before placing seed in tanks. If seed treatment accumulates in the meter while using the following lubricant application rates, contact the treatment manufacturer for assistance.

NOTE: Any additives other than John Deere™ John Deere powered talc-graphite mix leave residue on parts that affect planting rates.

NOTE: If talc-graphite mix builds up in bottom of hopper, reduce the quantity.

Mixes of seed and seed treatment must be free of clumps.

COMMERCIALLY TREATED SEED

Some treated seed is coated with commercially applied lubricant. To maintain meter performance, apply the recommended amount of talc-graphite lubricant, in addition to the commercial application.

Refer to the following talc-graphite application rate chart for planting commercially treated seeds with no farmer-applied seed treatments.

At the beginning of each season, add talc-graphite to empty CCS™ tanks and add 9 mL (0.6 tbsp.) or (0.3 oz.) to each empty row unit hopper.

Application Rate of Talc-Graphite Mix for CCS™ Tanks
NOTE: Apply talc-graphite mix to seed as seed enters tank. All seeds must be coated to ensure movement through the CCS™ system and for proper meter performance. Mix seed and talc as necessary.
CCS Tank Size	Amount of Talc-Graphite Mix
1233 L (35 bu.) Bulk Tank	2.6 L (11 cups)
1762 L (50 bu.) Bulk Tank	3.8 L (16 cups)
Per 80 000 kernel seed corn unit	74 mL (5 tbsp.) (2.5 oz.)

Adjust these rates as necessary so all seeds become coated with lubricant, while avoiding an accumulation of lubricant in bottom of tank.

Double the talc recommendation when planting small seed, large seed, seeds with heavy treatment, or humid planting conditions.

When a combination of sticky seed treatments, large or small seed, and high humidity occurs, add up to 2—3 times the amount of talc-graphite shown in the tables.

IMPORTANT: Avoid the formation of lubricant clumps. Clean buildup of seed treatments and talc lubricant out of hoppers between fills.

If lubricant builds up in bottom of hopper and vacuum tubes require frequent cleanout, reduce lubricant rate. If a coating of seed treatment is found on seed bowls, increase the amount of lubricant.

When using seed treatments, clean meters and seed bowls as needed. Clean seed bowls with warm, soapy water. Spray a graphite solution on vacuum seal side of bowl as needed.