case 8500 airdrill

[karmar]

I would like some info on the 45' case 8500 airdrill are they worth buyin?what horse power is needed? what type of seeding practice or preperation is needed like do you minimum till, zero till,direct seeding, or are they just built for conventional farming only? are they a high maintence machine?and what is the max amount of fertalizer can u put on with what type of opener? thanks

[slinger]

The Case 8500 Air Hoe Drill was evaluated by the Alberta Farm Machinery Research Centre in 1993. An evaluation report (#696) is available. Here is some of the information you are looking for, from this report: Horsepower required: 188 to 226 PTO HP Seeding Practice: This machine can be used for direct seeding, and is low disturbance, so it can be used in a no-till operation. However, residue clearance can be a problem, as the unit will plug with heavy straw residues, tall standing stubble, or weed infestations. Max. amount of fertilizer: 191 lbs/acre (214 kg/ha) for 11-51-0 There were some mechanical problems encountered during the evaluation, but an extended durability evaluation was not conducted. For an idea of how well these machines stand up over time, you should check with other owners. Are they worth buying? This is something you will have to decide for yourself, as it depends on your own situation. Your soil type, farming practices, management practices, etc. all play a part in this decision. I would suggest you obtain a copy of this evaluation report, to get information on the performance of this machine, and talk to other owners. Maybe compare it to other similar machines from other manufacturers. To get a copy of this report, and perhaps other similar machines, contact the Alberta Farm Machinery Research Centre at (403) 329-1212, or send me an email at darryl.slingerland@agric.gov.ab.ca A summary of this evaluation report is also available on our web site: www.agric.gov.ab.ca/navigation/engineering/afmrc/index.html