Abstract: A valve (V, V1, V2) includes a housing (VG) and a piston (VK) displaceably guided therein. A first end (VK1) of the piston (VK) can be acted upon by a force, with the aid of which the piston (VK) is displaceable against a spring (F) acting upon a second end (VK2) of the piston (VK). The valve (V, V1, V2) has four switching conditions, in which four ports (A, B, P, T) in the housing (VG) are selectively connectable to one another or blocked with respect to one another. In a first switching condition, none of the ports (A, B, P, T) are connected to one another. The spring (F) is configured in such that, in the absence of an application of force onto the first end (VK1), the piston (VK) is held in a position, which corresponds to the first switching condition of the valve (V, V1, V2).

Abstract: An agricultural tillage implement for use in a field. The agricultural tillage implement including a frame section and a plurality of wing sections. The frame section has a pull hitch extending in a travel direction. Each of the plurality of wing sections are coupled to the frame section and/or a wing section. The wing sections each have an articulated portion pivotal about an axis substantially perpendicular to the travel direction.

Abstract: A compact excavator includes: a swing post which is attached to a upperstructure and which can swing in a left/right direction, a working device which is attached to the swing post and which includes a boom cylinder, a counterweight, and hydraulic hoses which extend upwards between opposite side plates of the swing post, and through which pressure oil for driving the boom cylinder of the working device is guided. The compact excavator further includes a guide plate which is provided in the swing post, and which guides the hydraulic hoses downwards while restricting the hydraulic hoses from moving to approach a handrail when the hydraulic hoses attempt to expand toward the handrail due to driving of the working device.

Abstract: A tandem conditioning reel subsystem for use with a fully-integrated tillage implement including two modes of transportation: a working implement mode and a transportation mode, wherein the tandem conditioning reel subsystem includes trunnion bearing joint and a torsion axle arrangement which allows for superior coverage of the surface of a field.

Abstract: A drawbar apparatus for coupling an earth-working tool to a frame of an agricultural implement. The drawbar apparatus comprises a drawbar. The drawbar is pivotally coupled to the frame. A first bracket comprises a first portion and a second portion. The second portion is pivotally coupled to the drawbar. A second bracket comprises a first portion and a second portion. The second portion is pivotally coupled to the drawbar. A tool support is coupled to the first portion of the first bracket and the first portion of the second bracket. The tool support is configured to fold relative to the drawbar.

Abstract: A mount for a trash whipping implement for connection to a planter is disclosed. A height and force adjustable mounting system is also disclosed for use with a planter that enables the force of such an implement on the soil to be modulated as desired.

Abstract: A harrow includes plural hydraulic actuators to displace respective working elements between opposing first and second positions. The actuators are connected in series in a phasing relationship to define one or more hydraulic circuits. Each circuit includes a lead actuator mounted in a first orientation to displace the respective working elements in a first direction when extended and a secondary actuator in series with the lead actuator in an opposing second orientation to displace the respective working elements in the first direction when retracted. One of the ports of the secondary actuator is coupled to the same one of the ports of the lead actuator such that all of the working elements are simultaneously displaced in a common direction when supplying hydraulic fluid under pressure to the lead actuator. Additional actuators may be similarly connected in series in alternating orientations with the lead and secondary actuators of each circuit.

Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm includes first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to ground engaging tools mounted to a stationary and foldable wing frame sections. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems. The first and second hydraulically systems have mechanically controlled valves to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to various lifting, folding, and down pressure cylinders.

Abstract: A pull-type crop engaging machine such as a rotary mower comprises a frame mounted on transversely spaced field ground wheels for movement with a hitch arm extending to a tractor and a transport assembly attached behind the frame for moving downwardly to a transport position so that in the transport position the hitch arm extends from one end of the frame generally in the transverse direction for towing the machine in the transverse direction. The transport includes a transport ground wheel which acts to raise the frame to pass underneath the crop engaging system to support the machine on the wheel, on a second wheel behind the frame and on the hitch. The movement of the hitch and the wheel is connected and started at a position of the hitch so that the machine remains balanced. A shield behind the frame includes a portion which moves with the transport wheel.

Abstract: A pull-type crop engaging machine such as a rotary mower comprises a frame mounted on transversely spaced field ground wheels for movement with a hitch arm extending to a tractor and a transport assembly attached behind the frame for moving downwardly to a transport position so that in the transport position the hitch arm extends from one end of the frame generally in the transverse direction for towing the machine in the transverse direction. The transport includes a transport ground wheel which acts to raise the frame to pass underneath the crop engaging system to support the machine on the wheel, on a second wheel behind the frame and on the hitch. The movement of the hitch and the wheel is connected and started at a position of the hitch so that the machine remains balanced. A shield behind the frame includes a portion which moves with the transport wheel.

Abstract: Unique self-propelled soil working machines are disclosed. In certain exemplary embodiments the self propelled soil working machine includes a tool carrier which is actively adjustable to provide variable downward force on a soil working tool via a suspension element which is further passively responsive to accommodate motion of the tool in response to external force. In certain exemplary embodiments, the tool carrier is configured to adjust the working depth and pitch of the tool. Further embodiments, forms, objects, features, advantages, aspects, and benefits shall become apparent from the following description and figures.

Abstract: A telescoping coulter system for an agricultural machine, operable on ground and having a frame and a moveable structure, includes a coulter arm, having a proximal end with a pivot point, and a distal end bearing a rotatable coulter disk. An extension mechanism connects the frame to the coulter arm, and is configured to translate the coulter arm between a raised transport position not in mechanical conflict with the moveable structure, and a lowered operational position in which the coulter disk can contact the ground and is proximate to the moveable structure.

Abstract: A drawbar mechanism for coupling an earth-working tool to an agricultural implement is disclosed. The agricultural implement includes a frame and a source of hydraulic pressure. The drawbar mechanism includes an extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinder in fluid communication with the source of hydraulic pressure and having a first end pivotally coupled to the frame and a second end. A drawbar having a first portion pivotally coupled to the frame defines a working range. The drawbar having a second portion coupled to the earth-working tool. The second end of the hydraulic cylinder is pivotally coupled to the drawbar enabling a substantially constant down force throughout the working range of the drawbar.

Abstract: A tongue-hitch structure for a pull-type implement may comprise a tongue locking mechanism. A work frame for the pull-type implement may comprise a vertically adjustable rear wheel suspension comprising an actuator for moving the work frame between a lowered, working position and a raised, transport position. The tongue-hitch structure may be adapted to allow vertical movement between the tongue-hitch structure and the work frame. A leveling arrangement may be coupled between the work frame and the hitch-tongue structure operable to prevent and/or allow vertical movement between the tongue-hitch structure and the work frame.

Abstract: A land roller implement has a center frame and a center roller. Wings are pivotally mounted to a wing bracket pivotally mounted to, and extending rearward from, each side of the center frame. The wings and center frame thus move independently up and down when operating. The bracket is locked and wheels mounted on the brackets move the rollers up for transport. Inner and outer rollers on each wing are aligned and separated by a roller spacing. An overlap roller rolls over theis spacing. In transport position the right and left wings extend rearward from the center frame and right and left overlap rollers are aligned with, and adjacent to, each other. During a turn, the wings pivot and move closer to each other. To avoid contact with each other the right and left overlap rollers move forward and rearward to offset positions.

Abstract: An agricultural implement is provided with folding wing assemblies coupled to a central boom that provides a simplified arrangement for transporting the implement. The implement may include wing frames and row units that may be raised to allow the wing assemblies to fold rearwardly, into a compact, transport position. While being raised, prior to being folded rearwardly, the wing assemblies may be supported by the central boom, which is rigidly coupled to a central frame. The central boom is pivotally coupled to a hitch assembly.

Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm includes first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to ground engaging tools mounted to a stationary and foldable wing frame sections. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems. The first and second hydraulic systems have electronically controlled valves to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to various lifting, folding, and down pressure cylinders.

Abstract: A harrow includes plural hydraulic actuators to displace respective working elements between opposing first and second positions. The actuators are connected in series in a phasing relationship to define one or more hydraulic circuits. Each circuit includes a lead actuator mounted in a first orientation to displace the respective working elements in a first direction when extended and a secondary actuator in series with the lead actuator in an opposing second orientation to displace the respective working elements in the first direction when retracted. One of the ports of the secondary actuator is coupled to the same one of the ports of the lead actuator such that all of the working elements are simultaneously displaced in a common direction when supplying hydraulic fluid under pressure to the lead actuator. Additional actuators may be similarly connected in series in alternating orientations with the lead and secondary actuators of each circuit.

Abstract: In certain embodiments a soil aerator may include a hinged frame assembly that cooperates with one or more weight transferring systems adapted to permit an aeration subassembly to lift off the ground when an aeration tine impacts a hard obstacle such as a rock in the soil. The weight transferring systems may in the preferred embodiments be calibrated so that only minimal upward force, such as that caused by impact of an aeration tine with a rock, may cause the aeration subassembly to lift thereby significantly reducing or preventing damage to the aeration tines and drive assemblies and substantially prolonging the life of the aerator.

Abstract: In an embodiment, an agricultural implement includes a tool bar and a tool frame rotatably coupled to the tool bar. The agricultural implement also includes multiple row units coupled to the tool frame, and a frame actuator extending between the tool bar and the tool frame. The frame actuator is configured to rotate the tool frame between a lowered position that places each row unit in contact with soil and a transport position that raises each row unit above the soil. The frame actuator is also configured to transfer weight from the tool bar to the tool frame while the tool frame is in the lowered position. Each row unit includes a ground engaging tool configured to selectively engage and disengage the soil while the tool frame is in the lowered position.

Abstract: A hydraulic latching circuit is provided that allows a load-sense power source to be activated and deactivated depending on the SCV function. The load sense power source is activated when the wing cylinders are fully extended to maintain proper down force on the wings. It remains activated or latched when the SCV is returned to neutral. It is deactivated or unlatched when the wing cylinders are retracted. Two circuits have been devised to accomplish this latching function. Both of these latching circuits can be used with the sequencing circuit.

Abstract: An implement apparatus includes a hitch frame, center frame section, and right and left wing sections pivotally attached to the center section. An actuator pivots the center frame section upward about the hitch frame axis at the rear of the hitch frame to raise the frame sections upward and rearward from a horizontal aligned operating position, where front ends of the frame sections are forward of the hitch frame axis, to a raised position where the frame sections are oriented vertically. Working members mounted to the frame sections forward of the hitch frame support the apparatus on the ground in the operating position, move upward off the ground in the raised position. Transport wheels rearward of the hitch frame axis are above the ground in the operating position, and move down to support the apparatus in the raised position, where wing sections can pivot rearward to the transport position.

Abstract: A marker assembly mountable to an agricultural implement includes a set of interconnected frame sections that can be pivoted with respect to one another to retract the marker assembly for transport and/or storage. The marker assembly has a support wheel that supports the marker assembly above the ground as the marker assembly is being deployed and when in an extended working position. The point at which the support wheel engages the ground is controlled by a rigid link and cam assembly. The rigid link has a first end connected to a first frame section and a second end connected to a lever arm that is connected to a link of a second frame section. The rigid link is operative to pull down on the lever arm when the marker assembly is being deployed so as to force the second frame section away from the first frame section. The amount the second frame section pulls away from the first frame section is determined by the cam assembly.

Abstract: An agricultural implement apparatus includes a center section and wings pivotally attached to ends of the center section. Wing wheels are pivotally mounted to the wings about vertical axes. The wings can pivot from a transport position, where the wings extend rearward in alignment with the travel direction and where a rotational plane of each wing wheel is aligned with the corresponding wing, to a field position where the wings extend perpendicular from the center section and where the rotational plane of each wing wheel is perpendicular to the wing. Right and left wheel actuators pivot the wing wheels from the transport position to the field position as the apparatus moves in the operating travel direction by pivoting the right wing wheel such that a front edge thereof moves to the right, and by pivoting the left wing wheel such that a front edge there moves to the left.

Abstract: A marker assembly for use with an agricultural implement includes a marker wheel that may caster as needed to reduce loading of the marker assembly during deployment of the marker assembly, in response to variations in surface contour, and in response to changes in travel direction of the agricultural implement.

Abstract: An agricultural implement has a marker assembly that is pivotable in a generally rearward direction when the marker assembly collides with a relatively massive field obstruction. The interconnection of the marker assembly to a central frame of the implement allows the aforementioned pivoting to reduce damage to the central frame and/or the marker assembly during such collisions.

Abstract: A marker assembly mountable to an agricultural implement includes a set of interconnected frame sections that can be pivoted with respect to one another to retract the marker assembly for transport and/or storage. The marker assembly has a support wheel that supports the marker assembly above the ground as the marker assembly is being deployed and when in an extended working position. The point at which the support wheel engages the ground is controlled by a rigid link and cam assembly. The rigid link has a first end connected to a first frame section and a second end connected to a lever arm that is connected to a link of a second frame section. The rigid link is operative to pull down on the lever arm when the marker assembly is being deployed so as to force the second frame section away from the first frame section. The amount the second frame section pulls away from the first frame section is determined by the cam assembly.

Abstract: A marker assembly has a scalable frame that allows a user to set the width of the frame to provide flexibility in defining the width at which a marking furrow is made. The scalable frame includes multiple linkages interconnected to one another in a manner that allows the frame to be folded into a relatively compact configuration for storage and/or transport. An outer linkage has a telescoping member that allows a user to vary the spacing of a marking disc to vary the width at which a marking furrow is made in the ground.

Abstract: An agricultural implement is provided with folding wing assemblies coupled to a central boom that provides a simplified arrangement for transporting the implement. The implement may include wing frames and row units that may be raised to allow the wing assemblies to fold rearwardly, into a compact, transport position. While being raised, prior to being folded rearwardly, the wing assemblies may be supported by the central boom, which is rigidly coupled to a central frame. The central boom is pivotally coupled to a hitch assembly.

Abstract: A sod harvesting apparatus is disclosed. The sod harvesting apparatus comprises at least two different configurations. In at least one configuration, the sod harvesting apparatus is set up to harvest sod from a field. In at least one configuration, the sod harvesting apparatus is set up for transportation, storage, or the like, by reducing the overall size of the sod harvesting apparatus.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with an agricultural implement assembly that includes a support frame, a wing frame and a cylinder assembly that includes a cylinder and a rod, each of the support frame, wing frame, cylinder and rod being an assembly component, the rod moving relative to the cylinder between an unlatched position and a latched position as the support and wing frames move from an operating position toward a transport position, the apparatus comprising a first coupler supported by one of the assembly components and moving along a pathway as the wing frame moves from the operating position toward the transport position, a second coupler supported at least in part within the pathway by at least another of the assembly components, the second coupler operable to couple with the first coupler when the rod is in the latched position and a latch inhibiting member that is manually moveable between a latch inhibiting position and a latch enabling position, when in the inhibiting position, the inhibiting m

Abstract: A ground scraper designed to be pulled by a tractor or the like includes a pair of parallel frame rails with a scraper blade between them and perpendicular to them. The scraper blade can lowered to a preferred depth of scraping and can be raised above the bottom of the frame for towing. Dual-wheeled trucks on the rear of the frame can be raised off the ground to allow the frame to contact the ground for scraping and can be lowered into contact with the ground, also raising the frame off the ground, for towing on roads or the like. The rear of a tongue can be raised relative to the front of the tongue to pick up the front of the ground scraper frame for transporting the ground scraper and then the rear of the tongue can be lowered relative to the front of the tongue, allowing the frame to contact the ground. The exact angle of the tongue can float up and down in order to allow towing on uneven terrain.

Abstract: A device is provided for attachment of implements and tools to a zero-radius turn lawnmower or similar vehicle, comprising a rigid vertical frame including a topside and a bottomside and means for coupling to the lawnmower or vehicle; a rigid horizontal frame including a rear side, pivotally coupled to the bottomside of vertical frame, and a front side furnished with means for fixing the implements or tools; a winch mounted on the topside of vertical frame; a controllable motor associated with and capable to drive the winch; a cable means including a lower and an upper end, wherein the lower end fixed substantially in the middle of the front side of horizontal frame, and the upper end fixed to the winch so that the cable means capable to be wound on or off the winch, whereby lifting the horizontal frame into a storage position or lowering into an operation position.

Abstract: A forward acting wheel arm for a drawn hitch includes a pivot point directly below the rear rank of the machine frame, and the wheels are rotated directly in front of the front rank during field operation. For transport, the wheels rotate below the front rank to minimize tongue-lightness. The need for stabilizer wheels on the rear of the machine is eliminated, and the wheel arms can be actuated with either series or parallel hydraulic cylinders. The wheel arm pivot and cylinder base end connection are both located on the same support plate, and the hydraulic cylinder force is internalized within the plate rather than being translated through the wheel module mounting hardware.

Abstract: An articulating and locking mechanism of agricultural implement chassis is disclosed, intended for disc harrows and other implements with great working width, which are characterized by articulation to reduce the total width so as to facilitate transportation and storage, constituted of a main structure or chassis (1), central disc gang chassis (2), lateral and articulating disc gang chassis (3), with arrangements of vertical plates or extensions (4 and 5) welded and joined by shafts (6) for articulation by means of hydraulic cylinders (7), equipped with locking mechanism made up of hydraulic cylinders (8), locking and unlocking actuators (9, 9A), locks (12, 12A), coupling shafts (13, 13A) inserted in sleeves (14, 14A) and joined to the vertical closure plates (15) of the inner ends of the articulating chassis (3).

Abstract: A support assembly is configured to carry a series of flexible lines associated with operation of an agricultural implement. The agricultural implement generally includes a main frame bar pivotal about a platform. The support assembly includes a mounting bracket, a support arm and a holder assembly. The mounting bracket is pivotally coupled about a vertical axis to the agricultural implement. The support arm is pivotally connected at one end to the agricultural implement, and connected at the other end to the holder assembly. The support assembly is configured to hold the plurality of flexible lines above the platform as the main frame bar pivots about the platform of the implement.

Abstract: An agricultural apparatus comprising a carrier frame including a support surface defining an arcuate track about a pivot point, a mainframe mounted to the carrier frame at the pivot point for rotation thereabout between an operating position and a transportation position and a wheel assembly including at least one wheel mounted to a mounting member, the mounting member mounted to the mainframe such that the wheel is received on the curved track for rotation there along where the wheel assembly is vertically adjustable.

Abstract: Double acting cylinders on wheel lift structures of an agricultural implement are connected in parallel and include pilot operated check valve structure connected to the base ends of the cylinders to maintain timing of the lift wheel structure even under large differential loads without a rockshaft or other mechanical timing device extending between the wheel structures. The check valve structure prevents unwanted cylinder retraction and provides cylinder lock-up for transport without need for additional valves. When pressure is applied to the rod ends of the cylinders, the check valve structure allows fluid to flow from base ends. Orifices are inserted at the base ends of the cylinders 86 to provide optimum breakoff pressure for the check valves.

Abstract: Attachment structure for converting an integral implement to a pull-type implement includes wheel modules which can be placed at different locations along the frame to avoid interference with tool standards or other hardware. Each module includes both a forward gauge wheel and a rearward transport wheel. The transport wheels are located behind the center of gravity of the implement for stability, and the forwardly located gauge wheels offset the moment resulting from standard draft. A hitch storage jack doubles as a gauge wheel adjustment tool. To maintain the wheels in phase and provide a transport lock-up feature, a simple parallel circuit with pilot operated check valves on the base or lift end of each cylinder is utilized.

Abstract: A tower and wheel arm assembly for an implement frame includes a pair of identical single piece pivot castings which are selectively connectible at different locations along the frame and provide both wheel arm pivoting and a cylinder anchor tower pivoting. The wheel arm axle extends between the castings pivots within cylindrical cavities located in the castings. External cylindrical surfaces concentric with the cavities rotatably support a pair of tower plates which include circular openings received over the external cylindrical surfaces. Casting symmetry allows the same part to be used interchangeably for either the right-hand or left-hand support.

Abstract: Attachment structure for converting an integral implement to a pull-type implement includes wheel modules which can be placed at different locations along the frame to avoid interference with tool standards or other hardware. Each module includes both a forward gauge wheel and a rearward transport wheel. The transport wheels are located behind the center of gravity of the implement for stability, and the forwardly located gauge wheels offset the moment resulting from standard draft. A hitch storage jack doubles as a gauge wheel adjustment tool. To maintain the wheels in phase and provide a transport lock-up feature, a simple parallel circuit with pilot operated check valves on the base or lift end of each cylinder is utilized.

Abstract: Double acting cylinders on wheel lift structures of an agricultural implement are connected in parallel and include pilot operated check valve structure connected to the base ends of the cylinders to maintain timing of the lift wheel structure even under large differential loads without a rockshaft or other mechanical timing device extending between the wheel structures. The check valve structure prevents unwanted cylinder retraction and provides cylinder lock-up for transport without need for additional valves. When pressure is applied to the rod ends of the cylinders, the check valve structure allows fluid to flow from base ends. Orifices are inserted at the base ends of the cylinders 86 to provide optimum breakoff pressure for the check valves.

Abstract: A transverse rank particularly useful with implement split frame construction includes first and second transversely extending tubular members welded to the fore-and-aft tubes on first and second halves of the frame. The locations of the first and second tubular members on the respective fore-and-aft tubes are staggered. The members are sufficiently long so that they overlap and abut when the frame halves are assembled. The rear face of the forwardmost member abuts the forward face of the rearmost member, and the two tubular members are bolted together at the overlapping portions.

Abstract: Different sections of an agricultural implement can be raised and lowered independently and by varying amounts by a unique hydraulic system. That system incorporates a three-position, four-way primary control valve which selectively connects a supply line and a tank return line to first and second hydraulic lines. A plurality of double acting hydraulic cylinders are provided to produce movement of lift assemblies with respect to a frame of the implement. A separate electrohydraulic lift control valve for each hydraulic cylinder couples one cylinder chamber to the first hydraulic line and the other cylinder chamber is connected directly to the second hydraulic line. Operation of the primary control valve determines the movement direction and selective activation of the lift control valves determines whether the associated section of the implement moves and the amount of such movement.

Abstract: An overload protection apparatus for use with a planter apparatus including a coulter bar and coulter/fertilizer units mounted thereto, the coulter bar pivotally mounted to the underside of a wheel supported carrier frame designed for transport in a transport direction where a hydraulic cylinder is linked between the frame and the bar for moving the bar between a ground clearing transport position and a ground engaging position where the frame, cylinder and frame form a linkage path, the protection apparatus linked within the linkage path such that a draft force applied to the bar in a direction opposite the transport direction causes a secondary force on the apparatus and, when the secondary pressure exceeds the threshold pressure level, the protector de-links the linkage path thereby reducing the draft force.

Abstract: Different sections of an agricultural implement can be raised and lowered independently and by varying amounts by a unique hydraulic system. That system incorporates a three-position, four-way primary control valve which selectively connects a supply line and a tank return line to first and second hydraulic lines. A plurality of double acting hydraulic cylinders are provided to produce movement of lift assemblies with respect to a frame of the implement. A separate electrohydraulic lift control valve for each hydraulic cylinder couples one cylinder chamber to the first hydraulic line and the other cylinder chamber is connected directly to the second hydraulic line. Operation of the primary control valve determines the movement direction and selective activation of the lift control valves determines whether the associated section of the implement moves and the amount of such movement.

Abstract: An agricultural apparatus comprising a carrier frame including a support surface defining an arcuate track about a pivot point, a mainframe mounted to the carrier frame at the pivot point for rotation thereabout between an operating position and a transportation position and a wheel assembly including at least one wheel mounted to a mounting member, the mounting member mounted to the mainframe such that the wheel is received on the curved track for rotation there along where the wheel assembly is vertically adjustable.

Abstract: A rockshaft is mounted over the front rank of the implement frame and is operated by cylinders located at opposite ends of the rockshaft connected to lift arms extending radially adjacent bearing mounts. Fore-and-aft extending links aligned with the lift arms and mounts operate lift wheel assemblies. A hitch arm connected near the center of the rockshaft is directly connected to a hitch turnbuckle for level lift operation. An aligned arrangement of cylinders, cylinder brackets, links and arms provides minimal torsional loading, particularly when the rockshaft is rotated to fully raise the implement frame for transport and is in the most susceptible shock loading condition. Moment arms are controlled to minimize rockshaft torsional loading during highest stress conditions. The front-mounted rockshaft provides simplicity and advantageous weight distribution.

Abstract: A planter/fertilizer assembly that can be configured to facilitate either rapid seeding/fertilizing or transport and including an implement bar mounted on a wheel supported carrier frame for rotation between a transport position where the implement bar is parallel to a transport direction and an operating position where the implement bar is perpendicular to the transport direction, row units mounted to the implement bar on a side opposite the wheels and including central units adjacent the wheels and lateral units disposed laterally of the wheels, lateral coulter/fertilizer units mounted to the lateral row units, a coulter bar mounted to an underside of the carrier frame on a side opposite the support wheels and a separate coulter/fertilizer unit mounted to the coulter bar and aligned with each of the central row units.

Abstract: A seeding machine having a wing frame with planting units. The planting units are coupled to the wing frame by a pivot arm. The pivot arms move the planting units between a horizontal working configuration and a vertical transport configuration. An operator walkway is located above the planting units. The operator walkway comprises a walkway frame and a footboard. The walkway frame is pivotally coupled to the wing frame segment by a walkway frame pin. The footboard is pivotally coupled to the walkway frame by a footboard pin. As the planting units are moved from their horizontal working configuration to their vertical transport configuration the walkway frame and attached footboard are automatically folded between the planting units and the respective wing frame segment.