RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels: Toby Croker’s Experience with His Excel Planter
RYAN NT has designed a new Gauge Wheel with a HT 5 stud pattern to suit an Excel Planter. After it's maiden season in the field we spoke with some customers at the 2024 Ag-Quip Field Days.
Paul Ryan caught up with Toby Croker from Emerald Hill, New South Wales. Toby discussed his recent purchase of a full set of RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels for his Excel Planter. With a planting season behind him, Toby shared how these wheels have outperformed his previous rubber depth gauge wheels, particularly in wet and trash-heavy conditions.
Enhanced Performance in Wet Conditions
Toby began using the Coil Gauge Wheels on his single-disc Excel Planter this year, replacing the rubber depth gauge wheels that previously caused downtime and inefficiencies. “We did get going days earlier than we could with the rubber ones,” Toby said, highlighting the wheels’ ability to handle wet conditions effectively.
Unlike rubber wheels, which often block units in wet environments, the Coil Gauge Wheels' self-cleaning design ensures uninterrupted operation. Toby noted how the mud flows easily through the spokes, preventing buildup and reducing the need for frequent stops. “Unreal in wet conditions,” he added. “The trash flow was great.”
Toby Croker (Left) and Paul Ryan (Right) with the new HT Gauge Wheel
Durability and Longevity Compared to my Old Excel Planter Wheels
A key advantage Toby observed was the durability of the Coil Gauge Wheels compared to rubber alternatives. “Where we’re wearing out the rubber depth gauge wheels in a few hundred hectares, the steel ones have gone through the trash excellently,” Toby shared.
For farmers working in trash-heavy fields, like those with cotton residue, the Coil Gauge Wheels provide a cost-effective and durable solution. Their steel construction minimises wear and tear, making them an ideal choice for demanding conditions.
RYAN NT HT Coil Gauge Wheel for Excel Planters
Improved Trash Handling on the Excel Planter Row Units
Toby emphasised how the Coil Gauge Wheels excel in trash-heavy conditions, an area where his rubber wheels often failed. “Going through cotton trash—no worries at all,” he said. The wheels' ability to maintain trash flow without clogging ensures a smooth planting process. This in turn, saves time and effort during critical planting periods.
The combination of durability, self-cleaning capabilities, and efficient trash handling makes the Coil Gauge Wheels a valuable upgrade for any Excel Planter.
RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheel vs Rubber Gauge Wheel in mud shedding
Highly Recommended for Excel Planters by Toby Croker
When asked if he would recommend the Coil Gauge Wheels, Toby didn’t hesitate. “Highly recommend them!” he said. “Anyone that wants to retrofit them to their units, that struggle with getting through trash, I highly recommend them.”
Toby’s endorsement highlights the transformative impact of the RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels on his operations, making them a must-have for farmers seeking efficient and reliable planting equipment.
Word from the Company
The team at RYAN NT is thrilled to see farmers like Toby Croker achieving success with their equipment. “Toby’s story demonstrates how our Coil Gauge Wheels are designed to handle tough conditions and improve planting efficiency,” said a company spokesperson. “We’re committed to providing durable and adaptable solutions that make a real difference for farmers.”
Learn More About RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels
Interested in upgrading your planter like Toby? Discover how the RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels can optimise your operations:
Conclusion
Toby Croker’s experience with the RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels on his Excel Planter highlights their superior performance, durability, and efficiency. From excelling in wet and trash-heavy conditions to minimising maintenance, these wheels have proven their worth across challenging planting scenarios. For farmers looking to retrofit their planters with a reliable solution, RYAN NT Coil Gauge Wheels are a game-changer.
