Furrow V Closer | Schaffert Mfg. Co.

FURROW V CLOSER

The concept for the Furrow V Closer came about in 1992. It addresses the issue of the furrow being left open in no-till and minimum till fields.

About the Furrow V Closer

Furrow V Closer along with Chicken Tracker, 2×2 fertilizer tube, Rebounder,
and gauge wheel scraper on a Case IH planter

If you use no-till or other alternative till planting methods, then you know how difficult it is to properly close the seed furrows.

The Furrow V Closer comes up superior in closing the seed trench ahead of the press wheels in heavy, wet soils. It does not run in the seed trench, but rather to the side of the seed V opening, making it easier to place starter fertilizer and/or chemicals in the furrow with the seed.

If you are practicing reduced tillage and especially if you are planting on the early side, be conscious of soil temperature variability. Temperatures under heavy residue are usually several degrees colder than they are in bare fields. The top soil is always warmer than the soil at a 3″ depth (as much as 10° difference). Corn will germinate at soil temperatures of 45°-50° F., but lower temperatures may significantly decrease the uniformity of germination.

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The Furrow V Closer puts the warmer, moist surface soil on top of the seed, where it can enhance germinationspeed sprouting time, and speed emergence.

This is a very distinct advantage of the Furrow V Closer over the seed firmer wheels.

Benefits of the Furrow V Closer

Features—Design—Benefits

  • Closes the seed V opening ahead of the press wheels
  • Affordable (½ the price of the spoked closing wheels)
  • Works well in all soil types
  • New heavy duty triple seal bearings turn easily

Eliminates Common Problems

  • Poly discs are herbicide, pesticide and fertilizer resistant
  • Poly discs are resistant to mud build-up
  • Reduced down pressure on press wheels = Less compaction
  • Eliminates air pockets for better seed-to-soil contact

Where They Work—Suitable for Many Soils

  • Exceptional results in heavier, wetter soils
  • Works well in all soil types

Ease of Installation

  • Models available for most planters
  • Easy to assemble and install, less than 10 minutes per row
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The row unit on the left shows the furrow without the FVC, the result of which is an open seed V. The image on the right shows how the Furrow V Closer closes the seed V.

Exceptional Results in Wetter Soils

By using the Furrow V Closer and the Rebounder in wetter soils you will achieve greater results. The gauge wheel tire and angle of pitch can be used to accomplish this.

The press wheels were designed to firm the soil over the seed in tilled seed beds where the soil practically falls in over the seed.

With a firm ground resulting from minimum tillage situations, the double disc openers leave compacted furrow sidewalls that resist closing over the seed even with increased pressure on the press wheel(s).

Increased pressure compounds the compaction in the seed zone and contributes to crusting problems above the seed.

If the sides of the furrow do not close in over the seed, there is poor seed to soil contact.

If they crack open and expose the seed, the seed dries out and does not germinate.

If they close at the top without soil directly above the seed, the seed may germinate, leaf out, and then be unable to penetrate the crust above it and die.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly do the Furrow V Closers (FVCs) do?

The FVC stitches the seed V shut so it does not crack back open on a hot, windy day after planting.

What is the best way to store the FVCs?

Make sure that the planter does not rest on poly Furrow V Closer discs during storage. Furrow V Closer discs can warp.

When should I remove the FVCs?

Check the tail section’s full range of motion for adequate FVC clearance. If you have a field you don’t need to use the FVC on, just remove the bearing, hub, and disc assembly and not the shaft it runs on. This saves time in re-setting the FVC when you need it. More pitch and less depth move the same amount of soil.

How do I adjust the FVCs?

Reduce the down pressure on the press wheels! This helps prevent compaction which allows quicker emergence and at the same time saves press wheel bearings.

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Furrow V Closer and Chicken Tracker on a Case IH planter

Gallery

MOUNTING BRACKETS & SHAFTS

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Mounting Instructions

Testimonials