PARTNERS Getting Started
Spring 2014 . Issue #5 Getting Started............Page 1 Rental Spotlight..........Page 2 Green Fever!.................Page 3 Expo Thank You...........Page 4 Precision Ag Update...Page 5 Featured Equipment..Page 6 New JD Sprayer............Page 8 Mixers & Spreaders.....Page 9 Parts & Service............Page 10 GT4U............................Page 10 Spring is Sprung.........Page 11 Ask the Experts...........Page11 Save the Date..............Page 12
Our littlest "Future Farmer" at Expo!
Partners with your Operation for future Success...
Curt Hanson, Founder
Part IV: In the last Partners, we wrote about the difficult agricultural market of the mid 1980’s and how we planned to expand our customer base. In 1986, we expanded our building in Columbus to give us more room for parts, and increase our service shop space by converting our warehouse building into shop space. We also expanded into a new turf showroom and a new turf equipment repair shop.
In 1987, John Deere introduced a new line In 1987 and 1988, John Deere started to introof 900 Series front mount commercial mow- duce many new agricultural machines. Some ers. Also, the first utility vehicle, called AMT, of these were: was introduced. This was a five-wheeled · The Titan II 6620, 7720 and 8820 Combines vehicle with a dump box. These were in addition to compact utility tractors that al· The 5730 and 5830 Self-Propelled Forage ready were introduced in 1986. This gave us Harvesters a complete line of turf equipment, allowing · The 55 Series Row-Crop Tractors, 4055, us to expand into the landscape, golf course 4255, 4455 (1988) and municipal business industries. · The 60 Series four-wheel drive Tractors, 8560, 8760, 8960 In 1988, we hired Chuck Endres as our first commercial turf equipment sales representative. Chuck was very eager to sell the turf The 60 Series tractors had a new style, new wide body cabs, new hoods, and a new power line of equipment and grew the business train design. These were exciting new tractors. rapidly. One of the big changes in 1988 was the purchase of our first computer system. This was a big change for our employees and our customers.
www.midstateequipment.com
Mid-State Equipment
In 1987 and 1988 the farm equipment business was starting to grow. The 1980’s had eliminated many manufacturers of equipment and many farm equipment dealers were retired or went out of business. However, there was plenty of farm land available as Farm Credit and the banks had acquired an abundance of farm land in the mid-1980’s. Farmers were careful about expansion, so it was easy to rent land.
Columbus
920-623-4020
Jackson
262-677-8400
Janesville
608-754-8450
Prairie du Sac 608-643-3307
In 1989 John Deere held their introduction meeting in Kansas City to introduce a whole new line of combines. This was the first major change in 20 years and the first introduction of on-board computers in combine technology. (Continued on Page 2) Salem
262-843-2326
Watertown
920-261-8118
You Can Count On Us!
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Getting Started, continued Curt Hanson, Founder
This was the roll-out of the all-new 9000 Series combines, the 9400, 9500 and 9600. (Gone was the 4400 size combine with the 3-row corn head.) These combines had new wide cabs with a training seat, and an engine in the rear with a much larger capacity. New heads also came with the combines including the 900 Series platforms and 90 Series corn heads.
had never managed more than one location. On March 1, 1990, we opened Mid-State East in Watertown. That added our second location and seven more employees in one day! Little did we know that would be the first of more to come.
Our next expansion came in 1990 and was a major change for In the next issue of Partners, Curt discusses the “All New Breed of Deere” and the effect of the 151 Highway by-pass on the our company. In late 1989, the owners of Eichstaedt Implement in Watertown asked us about buying their dealership, as Columbus location… to be continued. they were ready for retirement. This was a big decision as we
Rental Spotlight: Power Buggies Kurt Orcutt, Corporate Rental Manager
Power Buggies are not just for Concrete!
easier and safer.
Have you ever started a project moving large amounts of material in a wheelbarrow and thought to yourself, WHAT AM I DOING? Mid-State Rentals has solutions to assist you in making those projects both
Are you the “Tim the Toolman” in your neighborhood? MidState Rentals also has an alternative to the regular sized power buggy available for rent or for sale. The Wacker Neuson 3001 Power Dumper offers maximum payloads of 6,614 pounds and the ability to dump to the front or either side, all from the comfort of an operator’s seat.
Contact your Mid-State Rental counter specialist for more information on available rental products and services to meet Most people that know what a power buggy is, think that they your rental needs. are solely for hauling concrete from the cement truck to the dump site. This is a prominent use, but it can be very useful If there is a unit from our rental fleet that you think you'd for hauling other materials as well. Mulch, sand, dirt, sawdust utilize on more than just a rental basis, give Kurt a call at and many other materials can be moved with minimal effort 608-220-9875. There are opportunities to purchase from our and precise placement with the power buggy. rental fleet or brand new from the factory. Concrete contractors, landscapers and do-it-yourself home owners rent power buggies for the following reasons:
With winter finally fading away, there will be plenty of projects to get started on!
• Reduce labor – Anyone who has ever filled a wheelbarrow with dirt or concrete, tried to balance it while moving to the final drop point, and then lift the wheelbarrow to dump its contents knows that it is labor intensive work. Renting a power buggy lets you do the same work while riding on a platform and moving a couple levers to dump. • Decrease chance for injury – Since the power buggy requires less physical effort, the likelihood of strain injuries declines. • Save time – Renting a 16 or 21 cubic foot power buggy from Mid-State Rentals allows you to move much more material per load than a standard wheelbarrow. • Versatile – Renting a power buggy allows you to transport ready-mix concrete with ease, and then use it for worksite cleanup, transporting tools, landscaping projects and many 2 more.
Be Smart & Safe with your "Do it yourself" Projects— Rent from Mid-State Equipment
Green Fever!
Jennifer Green, Janesville Consumer & Commercial Sales This spring, the more you buy, the more you save at Mid-State Equipment with the John Deere Green Fleet program. Purchase two or more qualifying pieces of equipment and begin reaping the rewards. Once you purchase the qualifying units such as a garden tractor, Gator, compact utility tractor, or a piece of commercial mowing equipment, there are over 150 eligible models that then qualify you for big discounts. Any piece of new serial numbered agricultural equipment does also count as a qualifying unit. Additionally, you have the advantage of taking 10% off turf parts and workshop products over $200. Loyalty members also qualify for exclusive financing promotions.
Keep your eyes open for additional 2014 changes including the newly restyled hood on X300 and X500 series lawn and garden tractors, and the new standard occupant side retention doors on Gator utility vehicles. There are also engine and new model changes within the zero-turn lineup. February is definitely the time to buy! Take advantage of some of the best deals of the year during the Green Fever Sale Event. Save $300 on X300's, $400 on X500's, and $500 on X700's series lawn and garden tractors. Take advantage of 0% financing options. Grab your new Gator at 1.9% financing for 60 months, plus save some additional cash on model year 2013 closeouts.
Do you have a Non-John Deere Compact Tractor? If so, trade Green Fleet is free of charge; all you have to do is qualify, and it in for a new John Deere Compact Tractor and save up to $1,000. Accessorize your compact tractor purchase with two begin saving right away. With exciting new updates to the 2014 turf lineup you will find it easy to qualify for Green Fleet. or more attachments, and save $500. Plus, qualify for 0% for 60 month financing. Hurry in because the Green Fever Sale From minor styling changes to major model changes, the Event ends March 3, 2014. 2014 lineup is setting itself apart. My favorite upgrade for These deals are just the “tip of the iceberg.� For a full list of 2014 is found in the 4R compact tractor series. The new auxiliary 3-point hitch control and hitch assist is going to make deals and information on all equipment, stop in and talk with one of our sales professionals. hooking up and changing rear implements easier than ever. The hitch assist allows the operator to stand behind the tractor and simply use controls found on the back left fender to creep the tractor forward, backward, and raise the hitch up and down. I am excited for customers to utilize this great new feature!
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Thank you for Attending Mid-State Expo 2014 At the Alliant Energy Center!
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Pre-Planting Precision Ag Strategies Phil Moskal, Integrated Solutions Manager With spring just around the corner, now is the time to get those displays and receivers off the shelf and make sure everything is ready to go. Here are a couple good practices to get you started1) Make sure all of last year’s data is unloaded from the display and into your APEX program. 2) If you have a 2600, it may be a good idea to start the year with a new data card. Data cards can be purchased from any Mid-State store for $26.00. It’s a good way to have a backup of last year’s data just in case anything happens to your computer. If you have a 2630, once the data is unloaded you can delete everything on the display to make more room for this year’s information.
upgrading or in a first time purchase, please contact me and I will go over the benefits of RTK to your operation. If RTK is not for you, there are other upgrades to keep in mind for this spring to become more efficient with your GreenStar equipment and save on some input costs.
help you trim seed costs by allowing you to change populations on the go so you don’t over plant the lower producing areas of your field.
If you currently side-dress nitrogen with a Raven monitor, we can convert that to be run by your GreenStar display. This will allow you to run variable rate preFor your planter there are many things scriptions to put the fertilizer where it’s we can do. Row clutches are probably needed most as well as utilize automatic the quickest return on your investment. Section Control. Converting over most Even if you have an older planter we liquid applicators is a quick and simple can provide a solution that will work for job that can lead to reduced cab clutter you. If you do have an older planter with and possible input savings for years to a CompuTrac monitor, we can upgrade come. Again, if you have any questions you to the newer SeedStar monitoring please contact Eric or myself and we will system. Variable rate drives can also be happy to answer them for you.
Remember to visit myjohndeere.com for all your online John Deere needs. If you haven't set up an account yet, please contact Eric or Phil to get you started.
3. Once all of your information is off the display, you can now reload your Client/Farm/Field Information. It will also help save time if you load in all the varieties or chemicals you will be using this year. If you have any questions or need help with any of these steps, please give Eric Kell at 608-393-0377, or myself at 608290-6722 a call. Mid-State is also rolling out new AMS Service Plans this year. Last year we had the four-tiered service packages, this year we are instituting a “Menu Option” to better facilitate your needs. If you haven’t signed up yet, please contact us to avoid confusion during the spring rush. If you are thinking about upgrading your display, now would be the time. John Deere is currently offering a $500 bonus to anyone who trades up from a 2600 to a 2630 display. We are also looking to expand our RTK network. If you are interested in
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Great Deals before Spring! JD9510R 4WD, PS, BB, 5 SCVs, 7" Color Display (J) $309,000
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JD9330 4WD, PS, PTO, Leather Active JD9530 4WD, PS, Dlx Comfort, Seat, Really Nice! (C) $249,000 4 Available (J/C) starting at $224,000
JD9400 4WD, 24 Speed, 3 SCVs, Front & Rear Diff Lock (J) $85,000
JD8310R MFWD, 16F/4R PS, ILS, 7" Color Display, 4 SCVs (C) $235,000
JD8285R MFWD, PS, 4 SCVs, 7" Color JD8260R MFWD, PS, 4 SCVs, JD8225R MFWD, PS, Dlx Cab, 4 SCVs, Touch Display, 1000 PTO (J) $190,000 3 Available (J/C) Starting at $185,000 540/1000 Shift PTO (C) $147,000
JD7230R MFWD, IVT, TLS, 4 SCVs, 2 Available (C) Starting at $161,000
JD7215R MFWD, IVT, 4 SCVs, 32 GPM JD7200R MFWD, IVT, JD Link, 3 SCVs, Pump, 540/1000 PTO (C) $158,900 2 Avail. (C/JK) Starting at $152,000
JD8330 MFWD, PS, 4 SCVs, Dlx Cab w/ Active Seat (W) $139,900
JD7930 MFWD, IVT, AutoTrac Ready, 3 Avail. (JK/C) Starting at $149,000
JD7830 MFWD, AutoQuad, 2 Available (P/C) Starting at $110,000
JD6170R 2WD, PQ+, Prem Cab, 3 SCVs, 540/1000 PTO (C) $121,000
CAT MT765B 16 Spd PS, 5 SCVs, 30" Belts, 3 PT/PTO (J) $119,000
JD6430 MFWD, PQ+, 16 Speed, w/ 340 Loader & 84" Bkt (JK) $89,900
JD6120 MFWD, Cab/Air, AutoQuad, 16 Spd, 3 Pt, 2 SCVs (S) $37,000
JD6310 MFWD, 16 Spd PQ, w/ 640 Loader & 85" Bkt (C) $45,000
JD5220 2WD Utility Tractor w/ 521 Loader, Sync Shuttle (W) $21,000
JD4940 90' Boom, 1200 Gal SS Tank, 5 Sensor Boomtrac (J) $276,000
JD4930 90' Boom, 1200 Gal SS Tank, JD4830 100' Boom, 1000 Gal SS Tank MILLER NITRO N2 75' Boom, 800 Gal High Flow, Eductor (J) $135,000 High Flow, 2600 Monitor(J) $208,000 Poly Tank, Foamer, Raven (J) $50,000
View our complete inventory at www.midstateequipment.com Columbus
920-623-4020
Jackson
262-677-8400
Janesville
608-754-8450
Prairie du Sac 608-643-3307
Salem
262-843-2326
Watertown
920-261-8118
JD1770NT 24R CCS, Vac, Liquid Fert, JD1770NT 24R30, CCS, Pro Series w/ 1.6 BU Boxes (J) $160,000 Refuge, Variable Rate (J) $130,000
JD1770NT 24R30, CCS, FPU, Insecticide, 1.6 BU Hoppers (J) $95,000
KINZE 3800 24R Planter, Auger Seed Distribution System (W) $85,000
WHITE 8500 16R, Liq Fert, 2-300 Gal Tanks, Insecticide (C) $69,000
JD1770NT 16R CCS, Pro-Shaft Drives, Combo Row Cleaners (J) $75,000
JD1770 16RN, 1.6 BU Box, Liquid Fert, Dry Insecticide (C) $40,000
JD1770NT 16R CCS, 600 Gal Fert Tank, Row Command (C) $118,000
JD1590 15' Drill, 2 Pt, Yetter Markers, JD1590 No Till 20' Drill, 7.5" Spacing, JD1560 20' No Till Drill, 7.5" Spacing, Hi Flo Tires, 7.5" Spacing (J) $35,000 JD Markers (J) $56,000 Progressive Markers (S) $28,000
JD750 20' Drill, Markers, Scale, 2 Pt, No Grass, Rear Lock up (J) $16,000
JD7950 4WD SPFH, Pro Drive, 2 Spd, JD3975 Chopper, Intelliguard, 1 3/4 40 Knife Cutter Hd w/KP (J) $299,000 CAT 6 PTO, w/KP (W) $42,500
CLAAS 900 4WD Chopper, Hydraulic Head Fold, KP (C) $150,000
KUHN 883/313 Triple Mower w/ Impeller (JK/J) Starting at $29,000
JD835 Rotary Flail Conditioner with JD946 MoCo Impeller, 13.5' Cut, Hyd Hyd Tilt, 2 Pt Swivel Hitch (C) $24,500 Tilt, 2 Pt Hitch (J) $22,000
JD945 Impeller MoCo, Hyd Tilt, Adj Gauge Shoes, Shedded (J) $12,500
H&S M9 Merger, 9' Hydra Swing w/ 2 Ft Hyd Extension (W) $15,500
JD468 Silage Special 4x6 Round Baler, Net Wrap (J) $25,000
JD567 Round Baler, Mega Wide Pickup, Net Wrap (W) $22,000
JD459 Silage Special 4x5, Mega Wide CASE IH RBX563 Round, Wide Pickup, Plus Pickup, Twine & Net (C) $29,900 5x6 Bales, Net Wrap (W) $20,000
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The New R Series SPRAYERS Pete Jordan, Sprayer Sales
Thank you to those of you that were able to attend our Mid State Expo at the Alliant Energy Center last month. The application equipment area was full all day. If you are a sprayer owner or operator, hopefully you had a chance to attend one of the sprayer clinics. If you didn’t, let me know and we can get you the handout that went with the class.
Speaking of the boom... it is totally reconstructed for the R Series. Widths come in 90', 100' and 120'. This new design boasts a three-way breakaway section, full boom breakaway, and simplified section plumbing.
Should you be in the market for an even quicker way to change from one chemical to the other, the R Series features integrated direct chemical injection which can hold up to 135 gallons of chemical. Simply enter your rate into the monitor, and the pump injects the chemical into a mixing chamber right before the boom, allowing you to keep your tank clean. Flush your boom, and you can switch to your next application.
Mid-State’s Parts Expo is currently running for those of you looking for spray nozzles, fittings, or any maintenance items. Also keep in mind that our used inventory has been changing weekly, so if you have had a new or different machine in mind or would like to add an option like float tires, let us know. Whether spraying or spreading, we have an excellent selection of used equipment to serve you.
Operator comfort has always been a top priority with John Deere sprayers, and the new R Series is no exception. The new sprayer cab has added corner post displays for chassis icons and machine data to allow for more efficient monitorThe corner piece of our display at Expo was a new R4038 ing of sprayer systems. The 2630 monitor, as well as machine sprayer which is a new model for us this year. The R Series switches are now part of the new armrest which is directly replaces 4730 and 4830 sprayers and is a completely redemounted to the seat moving with you across the terrain. The signed machine. The R Series Sprayers feature many new and rear window is tinted both to reduce glare in the cab and to innovative options. Each new boom is equipped with end keep you cool. Bluetooth radio and leather are also options. cap aspirators, which are part of the end nozzle body on each From the factory, all of these units are equipped with the caplumbing section. These aspirators accomplish several things: pability of JD Link, Remote Display Access, and Wireless Data 1) Removes any dead space at the end of the boom where Transfer, in an effort to keep your operation profitable. From improved power and balance to increased travel speeds and potential contaminates can build up. 2) Removes air from the section allowing for more reliable dry spreader capability, this new series promises to continue spray patterns, as well as quicker on and off section times. building on the solid reputation of John Deere. Look for the R Series Sprayers in a field near you this spring! Partnering with these new aspirators is an option to blow the boom out with compressed air from the cab. Upon selecting As we are now on the downhill run towards spring, making sure your equipment is ready to go is key for a smooth start. this in your monitor, the boom valves are cycled while being charged with air. Using this at the end of the day removes risk For many of you, the sprayer is the first thing in the field. Remember that farm equipment has not been on the road of solution separating out in the boom or leaching into the hoses. Also, blowing out the boom allows for a quicker rinse for several months now and is not at the front of motorists by removing solution before rinsing allowing that first rinse to minds. Double check mirrors, warning lights, SMV signs, and any other devices you use to see and be seen. actually rinse rather than dilute.
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Product Spotlight: Mixers & Spreaders Tyson Miller, Prairie du Sac Sales
In Southern Wisconsin we are fortunate to have a very strong livestock industry with many of our customers having Dairy or Beef Cattle. Livestock producers know there is a need for many diverse pieces of equipment to take care of their livestock from feeding to waste handling. Mid-State Equipment understands the needs and demands on these machines to perform on a daily basis. We offer equipment solutions from companies like Kuhn and Haybuster, both leaders in the livestock equipment industry for many years.
Kuhn Knight 2054 ProPush Rear-Discharge Spreader
Kuhn North America, manufactures the Kuhn Knight product line specializing in mixers and spreaders. The mixer line offers three basic types: Reel, Auger, and Vertical mixers. The Reel type mixers are available in sizes from 147 to 950 cubic feet. These mixers offer the new HELIX reel which allows for greater feed movement within the mixer, giving you more consistent mixing with better clean out. Kuhn’s auger mixers are good for the producer with greater amounts of hay in their ration. These mixers are available in sizes from 360 to 900 cubic feet. Lastly, Kuhn Knight’s vertical mixers are available in various sizes from 270 to over 1200 cubic feet. These mixers can be equipped with either single or twin vertical augers, and have a large variety of discharge options. The vertical mixer offers you the best option for processing large amounts of hay.
Kuhn Knight Vertical Maxx VT 144 TMR Mixer
When it comes to waste handling, Kuhn Knight provides many different solutions for you, no matter what size operation. The Kuhn Knight ProTwin Slinger is available in sizes from 1000 to 5000 gallons and is a proven favorite for many of our livestock customers aiming for a consistent spread pattern with good capacity. Kuhn Knight also offers an extensive line of Box Spreaders from 117 to 810 cubic feet. Some models also have the option for Vertical Beaters and Pro Push discharge. Haybuster, manufactured by DuraTech Industries of Jamestown, ND, is another company we’re proud to handle. Haybuster offers solutions in hay, grain, and bedding processing. The Haybuster 2655 Shortcut Balebuster can process round bales and place the feed in a bunk or windrow for easy feeding. This machine comes standard with a bale loader allowing you to carry another bale while processing on. Haybuster also offers several models of Tub Grinders like the model 1130 which has the option of processing hay, bedding, or grain.
Kuhn Knight 8150 ProTwin Slinger Spreader
Mid-State Equipment, along with Kuhn and Haybuster, offers many solutions for your livestock operation. Whether needing sales, parts, or service for your livestock equipment, we have the people and tools to keep you running. If you would like more information on any of these products please contact your salesman or check out the links to these manufacturers on our website at www.midstateequipment.com. Haybuster 2655 Shortcut Balebuster
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PArts & Service
Jay Goninen, Corporate Aftermarket Manager
Save up to 14% On Parts First off, I’d like to thank everybody that was able to attend our Expo at the Alliant Energy Center in January. We are extremely proud of all of our staff and our hope is that all of you enjoyed it as well. We felt the need to recognize our customers in a big way and I feel that we accomplished this. Although we ran our Expo days somewhat different this year, the savings that go along with the Expo remain the same. This is a great time to stock up on your parts as these are some of the best specials you’re going to see throughout the year. Below, I’ve detailed the tiers of our Expo Discounts.
You can save an additional 2% by going to the www.midstateequipment.com parts tab and ordering from the John Deere parts catalog. The Expo deals end on February 28th, so put your orders together to get maximum savings today! Speaking of the catalog, the John Deere Spring Parts Catalog is currently available through March 7th. On top of the enjoyment of just browsing through it, there are some really good deals in the catalog as well. It’s been a long, hard winter and although some people, (myself included,) are getting cabin fever, spring is within sight and you will all be back out in the fields again before you know it. Until then, make sure that you’re getting your preventative maintenance and repairs done. Of course, if you need help with this, we’ve got plenty of John Deere Certified Technicians here to help you out!
Spend $500 to $2,000 – Save 8% Spend $2,001 to $4,000 – Save 10% Spend $4,001 or more – Save 12%
Green Toys 4 U
Eleanor Jacobson, Merchandise Coordinator A new year brings new products and new deals both to your Mid-State Equipment locations and GreenToys4u.com! For the year 2014, the Prestige collection of replica tractors introduces five new high-end tractors for that special collector, including the 7270R and 8345R in 32nd scale, 7290R and 8370R in 16th scale and the classic Styled G in 16th scale. Beautiful wooden pull along wagons embellished with the John Deere logo will also be available in May of 2014, in both pink and green, just in time for spring. And for the little ones who love to play outdoors as the weather turns warmer, a large assortment of ride on toys have just come in stock. Let the kids wheel around on a shiny new pedal tractor or put the pedal to the metal in one of our 12 volt electric kid-sized gators.
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For a look at new John Deere clothing and merchandise coming in 2014 and big savings on the products you love, visit any one of our seven locations or www.GreenToys4u.com!
GREENTOYS 4U.COM
Spring is coming...
Dean Pierce, Ag Sales Manager Here we are frozen and snow covered, yet in just a short time, spring work will be upon us. The first day temperatures hit 40 degrees, everyone will transform into spring mode and into action. Spring weather will allow you to open the shed doors and evaluate your equipment needs for spring planting. Is the planter ready to go? If not, how much work does it need, or should you trade in for a larger planter that would allow you to get more acres planted faster and more efficiently? Mid-State has you covered there. We have an excellent selection of late model corn planters to cover your needs, from 4 to 36 row planters. Maybe you are thinking if you could just get more ground worked ahead of the planter, you could get more done in a day. We have options for you there as well.
get worked last fall including 14 foot through 33 foot VTs. Both new and used VTs are ready for the field. Maybe you need a larger field cultivator. We have a great selection of new and used field cultivators in stock ready to go. If you are needing more horsepower to pull that new piece of tillage equipment we have a huge selection of new and used John Deere tractors to fit your farming operation. If application equipment is on your radar, Mid-State has an excellent selection of sprayers to cover your needs. For our dairy and livestock customers, after the planting is complete and we head into first crop hay, check out the selection of new and used hay tools. Our Moco’s, Round Balers, and Pull Type and Self Propelled Forage Harvesters will get your hay crop up in a hurry.
Stop in today to talk with one of our sales people about all With the late fall of 2013, a lot of fall tillage did not get done your equipment needs, and don’t forget you can go online to so this spring there will be extra work to be done pre-planting. see our full equipment inventory and services at www.midMid-State Equipment has a huge selection of Vertical Tillage stateequipment.com. Best wishes for a successful spring! machines to help you get over those spring acres that didn’t
Ask the ExpertS
Agricultural Service Managers & Technicians What should be added to the CCS tanks on your planter to prevent bridging and help seed flow? Daryl Oren
Janesville Ag Service Assistant Manager
Answer: Talc should be added to the CCS tank at a rate of 16 cups of talc per 50 bushels of seed. More talc may be needed when using heavily treated seed.
Do I still need to use Graphite in my finger pickup corn planter if my seed is pre-treated with Talc? Answer: Yes. The use of Graphite is very important in all finger pickup row units. Some seed suppliers apply Talc before John Spaight Prairie du Sac Service seed treatments are applied. The Talc Assistant Manager helps to absorb the moisture from the seed treatment, however it does not help lubricate the internal parts of the row unit. When applying Graphite, a good starting point is 1 tablespoon of Graphite per bushel in each hopper. Be sure to check row units each time you refill with seed for proper Graphite usage. When properly applied, each seed will have a very light coating of Graphite visibly applied. Over applying will cause a Graphite buildup in the bottom of the seed hopper. If you see seed treatment building up on the fingers or the backing plate, more Graphite will need to be applied.
How often should I dig seed behind the planter to check planter function? Answer: I recommend digging seed at first start-up every year, on every row, along with any time ground conditions or planter attachments change. It is also a good idea to spot Don Seltzner Columbus Service check throughout the planting season. The Assistant Manager need for this is to make sure you have correct spacing and depth. With SeedStar XP monitors, spacing, doubles and skips can be monitored, but seed placement can be altered after the seed has passed the seed tube eye by multiple variables. Digging up seed is still necessary no matter the age of the planter. This is also a good time to check fertilizer placement.
How far can I let my disk openers wear before replacement is needed? Answer: Disc opener dimensions vary depending on drill or planter. For a drill you do not want to let the seed disc openers wear down below 16" in diameter. For a planter you do Kent Joas Jackson Service not want to let the seed disc openers wear Manager down below 14" in diameter. When checking the blade edge contact area for the seed disc openers, slide a business card down from the top and another card up from the bottom until slight resistance is felt and measure the distance in between the two cards. If the distance between the cards is not 1.5"-2.5" the openers will need to be properly adjusted. 11
PARTNERS Mid-State Equipment 4323 E US Hwy 14 Janesville, WI 53546
Before...
During...
After...
SAVE THE DATE:
Parts Expo Savings...........................Now窶認ebruary 28 Savings going on at all Mid-State locations!
Compact Tractor Clinic in Salem.......................March 8 Event held at Mid-State Salem from 9:30-11am
Deer & Turkey Expo..........................................April 4-6 Visit us at the Alliant Energy Center
Mid-West Horse Fair.....................................April 11-13 Visit us at the Alliant Energy Center
Spring Lawn & Garden Day to Save.....................May 3 Events going on at all Mid-State Locations from 10am-2pm
Visit our newly Remodeled Janesville Ag location. The final look is almost complete!
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