pendulum spreaders-will they work with ag lime?

[ssg shelton]

Hi,
I was wondering if a Frontier SS1116p pendulum spreader will spread the bulk ag lime? The John Deere dealer says yes but that it will need the agitator. I was wondering even if it has the agitator will it spread it? I just don't see how the lime will come out the long nozzle\spout. It seems like it would just get stuck and back up. Anyone have any experience. I have to spread 20 ton this year and yearly for probably the next 3 or 4. This spreader holds 1168 lbs. The price quoted was $1750 w/agitator. It is brand new.
I also have the opportunity to buy a really nice used Gandy 1008t 8ft pull behind spreader that holds 800lbs for $1500. I am pretty sure the Gandy is made for the AG lime but is a little on the small size.
I would rather go with the larger sized frontier because it looks like it is a little more sturdy being made on the similar design as a Vicon. But if it won't spread it, I don't want it.
I have called several lime truck spreaders but they want at least $50 per ton to haul and spread. I can have it hauled here by the trailer load for $13 per ton and spread it myself.
Also, I have one final option. I can rent a 7 ton pull behind spreader from the COOP. It will be two hours drive away plus I am a little worred that my JD 5103 won't be able to pull it even with my loader loaded. I have some rolling hills on my property and don't want to risk anything.

Please give me your opinion.
Joel

 

[Robert_in_NY]

Pendulum spreaders will spread bulk lime if it has the agitator, the lime is perfectly dry and the stars are aligned.

Personally, go with an actual lime spreader like your Co-op will rent you. Your John Deere will pull it and if you are worried about not being able to handle 7 tons on your ground then don't put 7 ton in it. Put in 3 or 4 ton and go for it. You will be done a lot faster as a pendulum spreader will take forever to spread 20 tons and loading the spreader will not be as easy. The lime spreader would be loaded with your loader and your back is happy.

I have pulled a 4 ton and a 7 ton lime spreader with my TN65 which is about the same size and hp as your John Deere. My ground is flat and I have not had any issues except for wet spots. If I find a wet spot it will sink even the 4 ton spreader on tandems. If you know where there is a wet spot then spread the edge and spread when the spreader is almost empty so you don't have as much weight on the soft ground.

I am not sure about the Gandy but if it is like the EZ Flow spreaders it will work fine spreading lime although it isn't as nice to load but it also doesn't stir up as much lime dust when spreading.

 

[Riddler]

Wow, $13 a ton for ag lime? Where do I sign up? I'm being quoted $70 a ton delivered here in my little corner of paradise. For the difference (25 ton truck and transfer load x $57), I could almost afford to buy the spreader!!