Spreader 3 Point PTO Spreader setup questions

[buzst]

Just picked up a Cosmo 180 3pt PTO driven spreader. It’s the same spreader as is sold under the Landpride, First Choice, and many other labels.

Before I go burn the heck out of the lawn trying to set this thing up, could someone provide advice on setting the spinner vanes. The pitch of the spinner vanes is adjustable to provide balanced coverage when using different types (sizes/weights) of materials. I know how to calibrate the spreader by collecting material in a tarp or multiple trays, but having a starting point of reference would sure help. The Mfg supplies info on gate opening settings but the vane settings seem to be trial and error.
What setting works best for powered lime?
Small granulized fertilizer?
Pelletized fertilizer?
Pelletized lime?

Do most people run the spreader at PTO speed (540rpm)?
Is there a relationship between spread width and PTO speed (i.e. if spread width is 40’ at 540rpm will it be 20” at a PTO speed of 270rpm)?
Should the pitch of the vanes change if running at slower PTO speed?

Thanks in advance for the advice

 

[HayDR]

Get one bag of the cheapest fertilizer IE 6-6-6 and try the calibration according to the chart given to you by Cosmo. Do not change the fins and run your tractor at about 1500 RPM and measure the coverage area and you will see the rate of application. There are many ways to spread fertilizer. Another way is to set the rate a 1/2 the desired rate and cover the area in one direction going back and forth and then cover the area going back and forth at a 90 degree aspect change.

 

[PineRidge]

<font color="blue"> What setting works best for powdered lime? </font>


Most 3-point spreaders that I have used are not very good at spreading powdered lime. It clogs the hopper and blows everywhere. Try the pelleted lime instead I think the results will be better.

 

[buzst]

CCI,
Is the reason for running about 1500 rpm to narrow the spread width so it can be more easily measured, or because it provides a more effective operational PTO speed?

 

[HayDR]

You will get a better distribution at 60-70% 540 PTO speed because you have small particles and larger particles in the fertilizer. Larger particles will travel out further than smaller particles. So at the slower speed you will have a closer and even distribution. But now if it pelletized lime where everything is uniform let it roll at 540 RPM.

 

[buzst]

CCi,
Thank you - I do have several areas where I was hoping to have a more narrow distribution pattern. didn't know quite what would happen at a lower PTO speed.