Dec 1, 2001 12:00 PM

The 4850 Hiniker air seeder won't replace your existing row-crop planter, but as a soybean-only machine, it's not supposed to. It just plants soybeans, at speeds in excess of 8 mph, in a variety of tillage and residue conditions. A bank of volumetric seed meters delivers seed to each row using a Zero-Max adjustable transmission for an infinite range of population settings.

The 130-bu. central seed tank can feed 24, 32 or 36 single disc seed openers. Planter-style gauge wheels run alongside each seed-drop tube to control depth. A polyethylene firmer assures good seed-to-soil contact. The seed-covering system provides a level, uncompacted seedbed by using an angled rotary disc closer to fill the seed trench. Hiniker claims the 4850 produces an ideal seed environment for fast, complete germination.

There's little wasted time at the end of the row or on the road with this machine. A single, central seed hopper enables fast, easy refilling. Optional auger mounts accept either Kasco or Remlinger 6-in. × 20-ft. fill augers. For transport, a forward-folding toolbar wraps around the seed cart for a road width of 15.75 ft.

A 40-ft. unit with 16-in. row spacing costs $49,599. So theoretically, corn and soybean farmers with 12- or 16-row equipment can double their planting capacity without doubling their equipment investment. A smaller, 30-ft. unit also is available. Contact Hiniker Co., Box 3407, Mankato, MN 56002, 507/625-6621, www.hiniker.com.

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