My home built no-till seed drill

[spurlocktool]

How long from the light bulb idea, to the finished project?

Oh I guess about 60 years in the sense that I grew up on a ranch where my main entertainment was "making things", mostly out of whatever scrap was around. But for this specific project it was an evolution of about 2 years starting with a first prototype that worked so-so, then setting it aside and looking at commercial seed drill designs, then tapping into some outboard motor rebuilding experience from many years ago to get the idea for the improved seed metering system. I'm sure it could be further improved or at least made more versatile for different soil conditions and seed types, but so far it looks like the best system I've ever used.

 

[doall]

wow. That's great. Are you an engineer or self taught?

 

[spurlocktool]

wow. That's great. Are you an engineer or self taught?

Degree in mechanical engineering, but I've never worked professionally in that field. It was just nice to learn the theory to add to the practical experience of woodworking, metal working, mechanical work (motorcycle mechanic mostly) and general tinkering.

 

[lhfarm]

My only need for a no-till drill was when I planted prairie grass and I rented that. But I too am amazed by your skills and design work. I hope you will continue to post on this project and any other ideas you are working on.

Thanks!

 

[flusher]

Oh I guess about 60 years in the sense that I grew up on a ranch where my main entertainment was "making things", mostly out of whatever scrap was around. But for this specific project it was an evolution of about 2 years starting with a first prototype that worked so-so, then setting it aside and looking at commercial seed drill designs, then tapping into some outboard motor rebuilding experience from many years ago to get the idea for the improved seed metering system. I'm sure it could be further improved or at least made more versatile for different soil conditions and seed types, but so far it looks like the best system I've ever used.

Hey, that's one nice project. Congrats on excellent work.
I spend a few months two years ago rebuilding an old Minneapolis Moline P3-6 grain drill (10 ft wide, 20 drops, 6" row spacing, single disc openers). Bought a pair of these drills from a neighbor for $275. Used the parts to build a single good drill. Total cost was about $600. Used the drill to plant Kanota oats last Nov.

 

[seca111]

the drill is very nicely done.

but I must say I like the bird scare machine video's better :laughing:

 

[OldMcDonald]

Many thanks for posting. I use a two row home-built seeder for corn, lupins and cowpeas (almost, but not quite, precision sowing), but broadcast oats, vetch and Sudangrass, so am in the process of finalising plans for and 11-row drill (based on a Baker boot type of opener) and was in a quandary about the type of seed metering device to use. I really like the look of how you put yours together.

I wopnder if you would mind sharing your thoughts on the outlet slots. I appreciate the reason for them being angled, and obviously needing to be wide enough to allow your largest seeds through, but how did you decide what size to make the slot? Or is it just related to the size of the impeller to obtain a continuous stream?

 

[spurlocktool]

I wonder if you would mind sharing your thoughts on the outlet slots. I appreciate the reason for them being angled, and obviously needing to be wide enough to allow your largest seeds through, but how did you decide what size to make the slot? Or is it just related to the size of the impeller to obtain a continuous stream?

Nothing scientific in the design of the slots except that I made them about 3/16" wider than my biggest seeds to reduce chances of clogging. As for length the slots, match the width of the impellers. I'll be trying it out for real in the next few weeks and will report back when I see what results I get.

 

[spurlocktool]

Just wanted to report on my first use of the seed drill. It worked beautifully! About three weeks ago I planted a bell bean, pea and vetch cover crop mix in the orchard, then pulled a ring roller down the alleys to "cultipack" the seedbed. Three days later we got our first serious fall rain storm, about 3", followed by another half inch a week later. The results are great.

Unlike my old spring tooth/hand broadcast/drag planting method, the seed was placed at uniform depth with almost none left on top of the ground. I used less seed but got a better stand than ever. I depend entirely on fall/winter rains so it's always better to go a bit heavy, but it looks like I'll be able to change the gearing next year to further reduce the seed rate. Attached are some pictures of the emerging crop.

 

[kebo]

Nicely done there!! I bet you could start building a few of those to sell and get a nice little side business going.