Page 36 - DRAGO GT Operators Manual

Section 5 – Operation

5.5 – Deck Plates

The deck plates on the Drago GT corn head are designed to gently strip the ear of corn from the stalk while
minimizing loss from but shelling. This is accomplished by allowing both deck plates on each row to adjust
independently to crop conditions. Additional dampening is accomplished by the use of the QuadSuspension that
allows the deck plates to move up and down slightly.

5.5.1 – Deck Plate Pressure

The deck plates (A) on both sides of the row unit are
automatically and simultaneously adjusted via self-
contained pressure springs (B) to match the diameter
of the corn stalk. This allows for two advantages.

1) The corn stalk remains centered in relationship
to the stalk rollers to minimize stalk whip
which causes ears to be thrown out of the corn
head.
2) The deck plates remain tight to each individual
corn stalk minimizing any gap that may allow
the ears of corn to come into contact with the
stalk rollers which helps to minimize corn
shelling in the corn head.

The deck plate pressure is controlled by a piston (C)
with an internal spring (D) mounted in tension. The
deck plate pressure piston is sealed and does not
require any lubrication or maintenance. For adjustment
of the deck plate tension see Section 6.6.

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