Use of Talc Lubricant

Some seed treatments applied by suppliers or the farmer can cause problems with seed isolation, seed spacing accuracy and seed flow to the vacuum meter. To minimize these adverse effects, John Deere talc lubricant should be used whenever treated seeds are used.

If planting seeds treated by the supplier without any locally applied additional treatment:

• Spread 1/2 cup of talk in each hopper after filling with seed. Adjust this amount as needed until all seeds are covered with talc and be sure no talc accumulates at the bottom of the hopper.
• For small seeds, seeds with a thick coating of treatment or for planting in wet conditions, it may be necessary to increase the amount to one cup of talc per full hopper of seeds. Thoroughly mix the talc with the seeds.

If the farmer applies an additional seed treatment:

• If good seed distribution is not achieved by simply adding talc, graphite can also be added in the following manner:
  1. Seed treatment (chemical).
  2. Talc
  3. Graphite lubricant.

     Fill 3/4 of the hopper with seed and add the amount of chemicals recommended by the manufacturer, thoroughly mix the additive to have uniform coverage of the seeds.

Graphite can also improve seed flow when an excessive amount of treatment has been applied.

NOTE: The measuring cup is included in the talc lubricant package. Part Number: A52577. Ask your John Deere dealer for this part.

IMPORTANT: Apply the seed treatment BEFORE the talc and/or graphite to make sure the treatment adheres to the seed correcting and to reduce buildup on meter components. If treatment buildup continues, consult the chemical manufacturer for help.

NOTE: The use of liquid additives is not recommended as they can leave a moist layer on the seeds in the hopper.

IMPORTANT:

PUM2372-UN-05MAY08

IMPORTANT: Follow chemical product manufacturer’s instructions whenever applying any treatment. In general, the use of powder or rapid-drying liquid treatments is recommended. THE USE OF TREATMENTS WITH HIGH OIL CONTENT IS NOT RECOMMENDED.

The chemical reaction between treatments applied to seeds in the field and those applied at seed sales outlets can make seeds sticky. Temperature and humidity conditions can also lead to complications in material compatibility. Materials that adhere to vacuum meter components can reduce seed populations and affect seed singulation.

Consult with chemical and seed providers to determine compatibility between treatments.

IMPORTANT: Talc and/or graphite should only be applied after the seeds are dry. Otherwise the lubrication provided will not be uniform and will affect seed distribution as well as vacuum meter seal and brush wear.