We asked Kinze District Manager Derek Prostine to summarize a few of the most commonly asked questions and interesting observations he took away from the National Farm Machinery Show and Iowa Power Farming Shows this year:
Kinze: “What’s New?” (It’s Always the First Thing Farmers Usually Ask.)
DP: Without a doubt, it was showing off the new vacuum meter and the size of the electric drive motor on the 4900 planter. People were absolutely amazed at how something as simple as an electric drive motor was able to easily replace all the drive components they’re used to having. It’s also fun to answer farmers’ questions about the new 4000 meter – and the 99%+ statement we’re advertising on meter accuracy. Every design aspect of this meter has a specific purpose. And they really seem to grasp it. Also, this was the first year that we had the opportunity to display the 4900 planter at the Iowa Power Farming Show in Des Moines. Interest in the booth was phenomenal.
Kinze: “How Does Hydraulic Weight Transfer Really Work?”
DP: I heard this question several times. And it’s much easier to explain visually, instead of on paper. When I showed them the HWT cylinder and it’s position on the toolbar, it was like the proverbial light bulb went off and their “aah haa” moment had finally arrived. I think their first comment after that was, “It seems so simple and makes so much sense; I can’t believe no one else has thought of it.” What they don’t realize is that Kinze is the only company that had the forethought to design their frames to accommodate this technology.
Kinze: “What do I Need To Think About Before I Go to the Field This Year?”
DP: Growers are now becoming more and more accustomed to annual firmware upgrades with software, so we get a lot of questions about what version they need to be running in their displays. Seed lubrication was another one and it always is. Kinze’s recommendation is to run 1 tb of graphite per box with a box fill planter and 1lb per tank (full fill) with bulk fill planters. Talc is only needed when seeds have become tacky from treatments or humidity.
Kinze: What was the Craziest Thing You Saw?
DP: I’m watching as this farmer approaches the new 4000 Series planter in our booth. Almost immediately, he reached for his pliers, and before I can tell him Kinze has push button releases on meter covers, he had one of the stud bolts off the cover.
Kinze: What’s Your Favorite Thing about Working at Farm Shows?
DP: One thing I really enjoy is the opportunity to interact with Kinze customers and hear them tell us how they’ve gotten along with their planter over the years. Repeat business is paramount to our success and I wish I could tell you how many farmers I’ve talked to who weren’t on their first or second Kinze planter, but their 8th, 9th or 10th!