Operating - Speed / fertiliser spreading Forward speed Most spraying operations can be carried out at 7.5 mph (12 kph), however the following points should be taken into consideration: The spray boom should ride evenly and should not bounce and yaw about. An unstable boom is one of the main causes of uneven application and is probably the main reason why chemical manufacturers and suppliers often recommend a slower working speed. If the crop is particularly dense or tall and good penetration is essential reduce your speed to 6 mph (10 kph). Also remember that, contrary to popular belief, increasing pressure does not increase penetration. It simply increases the number of smaller droplets which will settle on the upper leaves or blow away. e.g. for pre-harvest Round-Up a max speed of 6 mph (10 kph) and a pressure of 30 psi (2 bar) is recommended. If conditions are particularly rough, even if the boom is stable, it may pay to reduce speed for the sake of the machine. Fertiliser spreading. Vicon spreaders. (Oscillating spout type) When using Vicon spreaders the following points should be noted: When first fitted, the height of the spout on the spreader is higher than that specified by the manufacturer. However, once loaded and in the field you will find it will be a lot nearer the correct height above the crop. It is far better to be too high than too low and this should have no significant effect on the spread pattern. As a guide, the last bit of fertiliser should be hitting the previous wheeling. When spreading Nitram, or similar prilled material, the rear mudguards should be removed to avoid any effect on the spread pattern. The spreader has a built-in shock absorber in its spreading mechanism to avoid shock loads being passed down the PTO shaft. It is very prone to seizing up. It should therefore be checked each time it is used to avoid possible damage to the shaft and hydraulic motor. Check as follows: Wedge the flywheel so it can’t move in either direction. Push a screwdriver or bar through the PTO shaft yoke and try to turn the shaft. It should move approx. 20 degrees against the force of the shock absorber and then spring back to the central position. If it does not it should not be used until it has been repaired. If in doubt please consult T.J. Frazier. Lely Centreliner spreaders. Ensure there is a sheet fitted across the front of the spreader to avoid fertiliser being thrown forwards onto the machine. This is most important and a better sheet than the one supplied with the spreader should be fitted if necessary. Please remember the warranty does not cover faults caused by corrosion! Due to the relatively low pressure that the PHANTOM hydraulics work at, the hydraulic control on the spreader may be too slow. If it is, remove the restrictors in the end of the actuating rams. However take care if it is also used on a tractor - it may then work too fast and damage may result. A purpose made mounting frame is now available from T.J. Frazier which carries the later Centreliners on a 3 point linkage. This allows the tilt angle to be altered with a special top link and allows use of the headland tilt facility on the spreader. Amazone spreaders. Mounting frames are available for both Amazone ZAU and Amazone ZAM spreaders. A guide is available from T.J. Frazier for setting the spreaders up, however, as with all spreaders, it is advisable to have them tray tested before use. < 22 >