John Deere 1240 Plateless Planter Hydraulic Lift ?

OUBrew · May 20, 2015

Just picked up a series 400 1240 JD plateless planter. Got it for a great deal @ $200. It needs some work...one of the drive chains is broken. One fertilizer box is rusted through but the frame is in good shape. My question is about the hydraulic lift. I have read the planter uses a 8" stroke hydraulic cylinder. It does not have a cylinder with the planter. Can someone describe how this works? I have seen pics with hydraulic hoses hanging from the cylinder. My JD 3032 E does not have rear hydraulics...will I have to manually lift the planter at the end of every row? Sorry if this is all novice...first timer.

Appreciate any help. Thanks

nybirdman · May 20, 2015

You are correct in your assumptions!.You will need the cylinder and hydraulics to work properly.I don't know how you could"manually lift it.The rear hydraulics will be expensive(if you have front you could use that).
Surplus Center could be a source for the cylinder.

OUBrew · May 20, 2015

Thanks...I will spend some time figuring out the hydraulic lift.

Also, anyone know what size chain runs from the back tire to the main frame just under the fertilizer box? I am not sure if that drives the auger or what it does mechanically. I will see if I can post a pic. I do not believe it is a 2040...it's bigger than that.

Thanks