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How to Use Meter Runoff and Planter Runoff on SeedStar 3HP Planters

Quick Guide to Stationary Testing, Calibration, and Diagnostics

The SeedStar 3HP Planter’s electric drive offers powerful tools for optimizing performance before you hit the field. With Meter Runoff and Planter Runoff features, you can calibrate, test, and diagnose your planter while stationary, ensuring a smooth planting season and minimizing downtime.

What Are Meter Runoff and Planter Runoff?

  • Meter Runoff allows you to run an individual row unit on your planter while the machine is stationary.

  • Planter Runoff activates all row units together for a complete system test, also while stationary.

These features help you set vacuum levels, check singulation, inspect components, and troubleshoot row performance issues before planting starts or during diagnostics in the field.

When to Use Meter Runoff and Planter Runoff

  • Pre-Season Setup: Set vacuum levels and calibrate your planter before going to the field.

  • Troubleshooting: Diagnose and fix performance issues on specific rows.

  • Routine Inspection: Verify all meters and row units are functioning evenly.

Step-by-Step: Meter Runoff

  1. Raise Up the Planter

    • Ensure your planter is fully raised before running any stationary tests.

  2. Select Row for Testing

    • Choose the specific row you want to run off—for example, a row equipped with a vacuum gauge.

  3. Input Target Settings

    • Set target population, speed, and number of seeds to run in the test.

  4. Start the Test

    • Press ‘Begin’ to initiate the test. The planter will simulate planting using the electric drive, letting you observe performance indicators such as singulation and vacuum level.

  5. View Results

    • Use this feature to set vacuum levels ahead of time and fine-tune singulation.

    • If you notice skips or irregularities, inspect the relevant components.

Step-by-Step: Planter Runoff (All Rows)

  1. Go to the Diagnostic Screen

    • Access the diagnostic option for Planter Runoff.

  2. Input Target Population and Speed

    • Set values for full planter calibration.

  3. Start the Test

    • Hit the ‘Drive’ icon to begin running all rows simultaneously.

  4. Monitor Performance

    • Review meter RPM, motor RPM, and torque index for all rows.

    • Check that torque values are consistent—large disparities can indicate a meter/hub issue.

  5. Inspect for Problems

    • Even torque values suggest no issues with tight or loose meter hub engagement.

    • Use data to pinpoint rows with mechanical or calibration concerns.

Common User Questions

Q: Can I run these tests without seed in the planter?
A: Yes, these diagnostic runs do not require seed. You can view skips and performance indicators without dropping seed.

Q: What do I do if one row shows a problem?
A: Use Meter Runoff to isolate and test that specific row. Inspect vacuum level, torque, and mechanical settings to resolve the issue.

Q: Why is torque index important?
A: It helps identify if meters are set too tight or too loose, which can impact row performance and seed delivery.