John Deere 246/247 Planter Question?

[BlueSpruceHunter]

Hey gents. We recently picked up a John Deere 246/247 two row planter. Looks to be in pretty good shape, all moving parts, minimal rust, etc. I'm new to the planting game. We'll be using it for a sweet corn garden plot, some food plot corn on the farm and possibly planting pumpkins as well. Had some questions for anyone who has some knowledge in these planters.

1. I have two sets of plates for it, Lustran, B1-24 & B1-24x. I understand that each seed will vary slightly as far as what plate we'll need. The question I have is when I pick up the seed, other than actually "fitting" the seed, how would I find what plate I need or is there a plate that kinda is the "do-all" corn plate. I don't want to buy more plates without knowing what kind of plate I'll actually need.

2. As far as planting pumpkins, has anyone done it with this unit and any plate advice? I know Lincoln Ag has a chart but wanted to know if anyone actually has done it and can steer me in the right direction.

3. If anyone has or has used this unit, any tips or tricks with it would be much appreciated! Thanks a lot guys!!

 

[beenthere]

:welcome: to TBN
You may fine some answers on this .pdf, as there are parts listed for the two models..
http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/pdfs/PC0399.pdf

Also, check out the "similar threads" listed below..

 

[MORRISONSTEEL]

Hey gents. We recently picked up a John Deere 246/247 two row planter. Looks to be in pretty good shape, all moving parts, minimal rust, etc. I'm new to the planting game. We'll be using it for a sweet corn garden plot, some food plot corn on the farm and possibly planting pumpkins as well. Had some questions for anyone who has some knowledge in these planters.

1. I have two sets of plates for it, Lustran, B1-24 & B1-24x. I understand that each seed will vary slightly as far as what plate we'll need. The question I have is when I pick up the seed, other than actually "fitting" the seed, how would I find what plate I need or is there a plate that kinda is the "do-all" corn plate. I don't want to buy more plates without knowing what kind of plate I'll actually need.

2. As far as planting pumpkins, has anyone done it with this unit and any plate advice? I know Lincoln Ag has a chart but wanted to know if anyone actually has done it and can steer me in the right direction.

3. If anyone has or has used this unit, any tips or tricks with it would be much appreciated! Thanks a lot guys!!

A reputable seed outlet should be able to provide you with appropriate seed plates and are generally plastic from them so price is usually pretty decent, they should also be able to give you the other guidance. Good luck

 

[patchnball]

ebay has lots of plates for sale for your planter. When choosing which plate you can cross reference from plates listed in the owners manual ...if you have one. Also, corn seed comes with plate number listed/stamped on the bag. Great little planter, been using one for several years planting field corn and soybeans. Fertilizer parts like hens teeth to find. John Deere still makes a lot of parts for this planter.