WATERLOO, Iowa – Changing anhydrous ammonia tanks is not high on anybody’s list of things they like to do, even for dealers who sell the fertilizer.
A new remote coupling device allows farmers to put that process behind them -25 feet behind them in most cases.
John Deere is releasing the Pitstop Pro connection system for its 2510H anhydrous fertilizer applicator. While aimed at the row crop market, the system has appealing characteristics that could find their way onto other drills.
The new automated coupler allows operators to drop an empty fertilizer tank and load another in about two minutes without leaving the tractor cab.
Read Also
VIDEO: Green Lightning and Nytro Ag win sustainability innovation award
Nytro Ag Corp and Green Lightning recieved an innovation award at Ag in Motion 2025 for the Green Lightning Nitrogen Machine, which converts atmospheric nitrogen into a plant-usable form.
At the press of a button on the cab’s console, the hose is decoupled from the applicator and with a second button the hitch pin is retracted and the tank and cart are left behind.
Backing into the hitch on the fresh tank connects the cart, and the operator then presses another button to couple the fertilizer line. This causes the coupler on the drill to move down a track and complete the engagement with the tank’s hose.
“In the Midwest on a typical day, with a 1,500 gallon tank and 400 acres to cover, hooking up a tank might happen about 15 times,” said David Wendt of John Deere.
“We can save an hour a day and keep the operator happy too.”
