Prepping the Sprayer for a New Season | Wheat School

In this Wheat School episode, professor TJ Pullman walks viewers through a systematic pre‑season inspection of an Apache sprayer destined for Ontario’s winter wheat acres. Backed by Bayer Crop Science and CNMC, the tutorial emphasizes that a well‑tuned sprayer is essential for uniform herbicide distribution, yield protection, and regulatory compliance. By treating the sprayer as a precision‑ag tool rather than a simple pump, growers can reduce waste, protect the environment, and protect their bottom line before the first pass through the field.

Pullman starts with the plumbing: clean the main filter, verify the 500‑gallon tank for cracks, and pressurize the system to spot leaks. He reminds operators to flip the selector valve back to the main tank after rinsing—a common oversight that can halt applications. The pump’s weep hole is inspected for moisture, signaling seal wear that may require a rebuild. On the boom, end caps, O‑rings, and tip clips are tightened, hoses are examined for kinks, and check valves are swapped if rubber seals appear brittle. Finally, the flow meter and Raven rate controller undergo a self‑test, using a water jug to confirm that the displayed gallons‑per‑acre match actual output, with nozzle flow calibrated to the manufacturer’s 38‑ounce specification.

Accurate calibration translates directly into cost savings: over‑applying by two gallons per acre on a 100‑acre plot wastes roughly 200 gallons of product, inflating chemical expenses and increasing runoff risk. Consistent nozzle performance also protects seedling health, supporting higher yields and meeting Canadian pesticide regulations. Pullman advises growers to document each pre‑season check, keep spare O‑rings and check‑valve kits on‑hand, and schedule quarterly recalibrations. By treating sprayer maintenance as a data‑driven routine, grain producers can optimize input efficiency, safeguard the environment, and maintain competitive margins throughout the wheat cycle.