Tires John Deere Metal Wheels - need rubber?

[soverholt]

I have a John Deere 246 corn planter (see picture) and plan to use it this spring. It has metal wheels. Is it OK to use it as is or do I need rubber for the wheels like I see on so many planters?

 

[powerpace]

The wheels are built in the shape for a reason. The seed is placed in the ground and the wheel shapes and firms the seed row as it passes over. You would not get the same action with rubber. Leave the metal on.

 

[soverholt]

Thanks. Just didn't want to tear anything up by using incorrectly. Now if I can just get the left fertilizer hopper working...

 

[powerpace]

Fertilizer left in the hopper will corrode everything it touches. Most fertilizers will draw moisture and react with the metal. I'm surprised the hoppers look as good as they do for their age. Sometimes they quit working because of a broken or missing roll or cotter pin.

 

[fgross335_2210]

The early planters had the steel wheels.....later planters (1970's) had a similar shape but with a rubber wheel...we had a four-row planter on our farm with rubber wheels. Either will help shape/pack the dirt appropriately around the seed, firm on each side, slightly looser right above to help the sprout break through......