John Deere 71 planter parts

[drz400]

Hi,
Can someone post some pictures of the depth bands that bolt to the disc openers.I am rebuilding a planter and the bands are in poor shape.I'm going to fabricate new ones. A pic of both sides would be very helpful...Thanks.

[Farmwithjunk]

Well, here ya go.

[drz400]

Thanks for posting the pics. Thats very helpful.It looks like the bands are taperd slightly? Do they bolt on using the center hole in the disc opener hub.I sent you a PM.Thanks...Ken

[Farmwithjunk]

Originally Posted by drz400

Thanks for posting the pics. Thats very helpful.It looks like the bands are taperd slightly? Do they bolt on using the center hole in the disc opener hub.I sent you a PM.Thanks...Ken

The standard disc opener has a small threaded "plug" in the center to access the bearing. The depth band attaches to that threaded hole using a 1/2" X 5/8" fine thread bolt.

The "tire" part of the band (outer portion of the wheel) is flat. There's a tapered recessed area in the center of the wheel. The small curved bracket on the inside aligns the wheel perfectly centered on the disc opener. It presses against the hub of the disc opener.

The depth bands were once available in 7", 8-1/2", 9", 9-1/2", and 10-1/2" sizes. Some are in short supply nowdays. The larger sizes (shallower planting depth) are actually more common than the smaller ones as far as used ones still floating around. They were used most commonly when the 70's and 71's were used to plant sugar beets. They were seeded at very shallow planting depths and depth bands were critical to maintaining a constant depth.