Cotton picker parts, like every machine, will lose their prime and begin to wear and tear over the many years of use during the cotton harvesting seasons. One example is the cotton picker spindle, which is constantly in motion. Many components and parts are sold together as kits or separately.
After the manufacturer’s parts break, you want replacement parts that are made to be durable and of high quality to keep the cotton harvesting moving forward. Knowing the right parts and which ones to get maintained and choosing a trusted aftermarket parts manufacturer to work with you as a farmer or dealer is critical to the operation.
The Right Cotton Picker Machine
There are a few manufacturers of cotton-picking machines. The most prominent are John Deere and Case IH. No matter the brand, there are a few things to consider when purchasing a suitable cotton picker machine to meet your needs out in the field.
- Hiring or DIY Maintenance and Repairs: As a farmer, you can hire workers to keep up with and repair breakdowns. Having this concept figured out first will help you determine which cotton picker machine will work best. Access to the machine’s parts and repair manuals, including diagrams of the machine and its characteristics, will also help.
- Choosing a Familiar Machine: Knowing how to operate the cotton picker machine is critical to the user. If the user knows how to handle and maintain the machinery precisely, you know it is the right one to purchase. However, it could be a challenge with new equipment. The one hired to operate the equipment may require additional training if they are unfamiliar with the new style.
- Choose Only the Best Parts: You can have the best piece of equipment, but if the parts are not of high quality, they will break sooner, or they can cause extensive damage to the machinery. Replace with the best parts when needed.
Knowing the Right Parts and Which Ones to Get
Case IH and John Deere utilize similar theories with their cotton harvesting machines, but that’s where the similarities stop: as parts for the one brand are not interchangeable with the other. Diagrams are available for Case IH and John Deere, and the good news is that parts that can be ordered in assemblies can also be ordered individually. When a part needs to be replaced you only need to purchase the piece or pieces that failed.
Farmers and dealers can find all the parts that fit these components of the cotton picker machine:
- Belts
- Miscellaneous Parts
- Picking Unit System
- Picking Unit Cabinet
- Air System
- Water System
There are hundreds of pieces that go with these components. Each has a part number and is found in the diagrams listed for Certi-Pik Replacement Parts for specific models of brands. Although there are parts with similar descriptions in the diagrams, the parts are sometimes model specific and are not interchangeable. It is, therefore, critical to be careful when ordering the correct part number and check the models listed in the descriptions for which ones will fit and which will not.
Keeping Up with the Maintenance
Every piece of equipment requires testing before, during, and after every harvest season. Machines break at unexpected moments and can shut down the entire harvesting operation for a day or more. One small part can stop the work process and cause extensive profit loss if maintenance is not done correctly.
Some things farmers can do during the maintenance checklists are as follows:
- Keep oil and fluid levels up to par
- Keep tires at the proper inflation
- Clean the machine of all dust and debris each day
- Check all belts and moving parts for unusual shaking or vibrations
- Grease all required elements, anything with grease zerks or grease reservoirs.
- Remove any debris from constantly moving parts
- Ensure everything works up to par and is not slacking. If one part is wearing out, it may cause the operation to be less effective or may cause extensive damage to other parts of the cotton-picking machine
Maintenance is critical no matter who performs it. The farmer should have the updates at the end of each day to ensure all parts work correctly. The farmer may do their own maintenance or may have a mechanic or repair shop work on their equipment. It is critical to inform those working on the machines when the farmer or their dealer will supply the parts.
Choosing the Right Manufacturer for Aftermarket Parts
Communication is also important when dealing with the parts chosen. The farmer will have the final say in what needs to be done in the event of repairing or replacing parts and equipment.
All parts and accessories from the Certi-Pik, USA inventory are kept in stock and constantly monitored to ensure the best possible availability.
You must know and understand the primary cotton harvester parts to choose the correct aftermarket parts.
- Picker Grid Bars: They are found in the row unit and are used to keep the plant stalk and branches in place while the spindle extracts the cotton fibers from the bolls. In so doing, they also help with keeping the cotton clean and lessen premature wearing of the moistener pad and doffers.
- Plant lifters: They lift the plants while the row units pick them up. They are the lowest part of the machine, following the contour of the ground.
- Spindles and Bushings: They keep spinning as they separate the cotton from the plant.
- Picking Row Unit: These are made up of a multitude of moving parts while hanging on the front of the picker. They remove the cotton as the plant is funneled through them and hand it off to the air system.
- Moistening System: Keeps the cotton sap from sticking and becoming gummed onto the spindles, moistener pads, and doffers.
- Doffers: These components strip the cotton off of the spindles by rotating at a higher speed and in the opposite direction as the spindle barbs.
Ordering from Certi-Pik, USA
Farmers and dealers can get cotton harvesting parts through the Certi-Pik inventory under their choice of replacement parts. They can call in the part numbers and order by phone as well. The contact information is found on the website.
If ordered early, the shipment should go out the same day. However, the shipment will typically go out the following day if it is later. Contact Certi-Pik, USA through the website or by phone to order. To keep service moving quickly, please have the part number ready with a description off the website or our catalog to avoid confusion.
Please note: Dealers pay wholesale prices while farmers pay retail. For this reason, prices may vary.
As a cotton farmer, you know the importance of having a well-maintained cotton picker machine to ensure maximum efficiency during the harvest season. Here is a list of the top ten cotton picker parts, including the cotton spindle, which will improve your machine’s performance and increase your overall yield.
The regular attachments are meant to run the harvesting season with the promise of a good harvest with few breakdowns. However, some attachments are accessories that enhance the performance of traditional equipment.
With these accessories, your cotton picker will be in the running efficiently, making your harvest season smoother and more productive. We will first discuss the essential components to understand how the accessories make harvesting season better for the farmer and the machine.
The Primary Parts of the Cotton Picker Machine
The cotton picker harvesting machine is vital for farmers who need to harvest cotton efficiently. This machine has several essential components that gather the cotton quickly and effectively.
One of the critical components of the cotton picker harvesting machine is the picker bar assembly. This assembly acts as a gearbox, keeping the spindle in motion positioned to feed past the moistener pads and doffers. The picker bar assembly consists of several spindles, which rotate to pick the cotton fibers from the plant.
Another essential component of the cotton picker harvesting machine is the moistening system. After the cotton is picked, the doffer must remove it from the spindle. As the cotton sap is sticky, the moistening system has an important role in keeping the picking components running smoothly. When maintained and adjusted correctly, the moistening system removes unwanted sap from the spindles, ensuring it is fully picked and transferred to the cotton containment section of the picker.
The cotton picker also has a conveying system that moves the harvested cotton from the picking unit to the containment section of the picker. This system consists of fans and air ducts that transport the cotton through the machine via a pressurized venturi effect.
Lastly, the cotton picker harvesting machine has a cab where the operator sits. The cab provides a comfortable and safe environment for the operator to control the machine and monitor its performance.
The Ten Accessories for Enhanced Efficiency
Vine Cutters
Farmers rely on various accessories during the cotton harvesting season to make their work more efficient. In some areas, vine cutters are one accessory that helps farmers keep their picking unit running freely and save time. As the cutters cut through the vines and long stalks, it keeps them from wrapping around the doffer assembly and nearby components, which can be detrimental to the harvesting process.
Scrapping Plates
Scrapping plates are used to ensure the cotton, as it is extracted from the bolls, is fully pushed up the barbs on the spindles. The scrapping plates are attached to the pressure doors and help to make sure as much cotton is picked off the plant as possible the first time through the field. Certi-Pik has customized its scrapping plates for optimum depth of spindle engagement in all styles on whichever pressure door you desire to use.
The Light Bar
The Light Bar is another accessory that is commonly used in cotton harvesting. It provides farmers with better visibility during the night hours, making it easier for them to work efficiently without compromising safety.
Stalk Lifter Rods
Stalk Lifter Rods and guides work with the row units lifting action, making it easier for the plants to be guided into the picking unit, adding life to the plastic shields. They also help to harvest as much lower-hanging cotton as possible.
Camera Observation System
One of the most essential accessories used during cotton harvesting is the Camera Observation System. This system allows farmers to monitor the harvesting process and identify any issues that may arise. It comes with a monitor and two cameras.
Mud Scrapers
Mud Scrapers are another essential accessory that helps to remove dirt and mud from the tires as they roll through the muddy fields. It makes it easier to operate the machinery without all the mess, providing better control over the drive tires.
The Spring Tension Feeder Belt Kit
The Spring Tension Feeder Belt Kit ensures the belt is firmly in place on the harvesting machine. If the belt is loose or too tight, the spring tension fixes the belt placement, keeping it snuggly in place.
The Active RMB Belt Cleaning Brush
The Active RMB Belt Cleaning Brush keeps the harvesting machine clean and debris-free. It also delivers more required moisture, making it easier to keep the cotton pickers and components clean from caked-up debris.
The Lubricator Transfer Pump
The Lubricator Transfer Pump is another accessory commonly used during cotton harvesting. It helps to keep the harvesting machine lubricated, preventing any damage or wear and tear by allowing the user to fill from the ground level. The pump works by spreading the lube to the lube tank.
The Harvest Identification Cotton PRO
The Harvest Identification Cotton PRO is an accessory that allows farmers to track the cotton harvesting process. It delivers data to the John Deere Operations Center Field Analyzer tool.
The Importance of Innovation with New Accessories in Cotton Farming
In the past, picking cotton was a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. But with new machinery and equipment development, the industry has become much more efficient and cost-effective. One of the most significant innovations in recent years has been the introduction of automated accessories. These machines can harvest cotton much faster, increasing farmers’ output and reducing costs.
Another important innovation has been the development of precision agricultural technology. This technology uses data analysis and sensors to help farmers optimize their planting and harvesting practices, reducing waste and maximizing yield.
This technology allows farmers to make more informed decisions about when to plant and harvest their crops and how much water and fertilizer to use. These innovations have significantly impacted the cotton harvesting industry, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable.
Ordering from Certi-Pik, USA
If you’re a farmer or dealer needing cotton harvesting parts, you can browse our website to choose the replacement parts you need or call in your order by phone.
Our contact information can be found on the website for your convenience. For same-day shipping, be sure to place your order early. However, if it’s later in the day, your shipment will most likely go out the following day. Be sure to have the part number ready and a precise description.
It’s important to note that dealers pay wholesale prices while farmers pay retail, which may cause prices to vary. If you have any questions, contact us Certi-Pik, USA.
John Deere Cotton Picker 9996 Frequently Asked Questions
The John Deere Cotton Picker 9996 is a popular, efficient agricultural machine. The 9996 is a durable, powerful machine with a thoughtfully designed build that places the engine in a position to provide more traction to the wheels and more horsepower to move those wheels up hills.
How Much HP does the Engine Have?
The 8.1-liter engine creates 350 horsepower. Its engine is a PowerTech diesel and comes equipped with an electric governor designed to provide consistent power in conditions such as rain and traversing hilly sections. The 350-horsepower provided makes this machine incredibly powerful and able to keep moving forward. There is also an optional powered rear axle available to help in areas that require more power to get over hills and extremely muddy terrain.
How is the Dual Hydrostatic Drive Set Up?
The 9996 comes equipped with a dual hydrostatic drive. It has an inner pump to drive the transmission and an external pump for the row units. The hydraulic reservoir is located in the pump housing and feeds the entire system.
What is the Capacity of the Basket?
With 1,400 cubic feet capacity, the PRO-LIFT basket has a low center of gravity to give a solid, stable base. The John Deere 9996 comes complete with a monitoring system to manage loads and a fan that improves the conveying and distribution efficiency within the basket.
What is the Row-Trak™ Controller?
The John Deere 9996 offers the Row-Trak controller system. It monitors the rows and keeps the machine running in a straight line. With this feature, the operator can maximize the harvest speed, and the 9996 will adjust steering as needed. With the Row-Trak engaged, it’s good to know the cab is comfortable. It features a standard heater and air conditioner and an optional air suspension seat, and a pre-wired radio setup.
What Size are the Picking Rows?
The Pro-Series row units offer multiple front bar options. The Pro-12 has a 12-bar front and a 12-bar rear. The Pro-16 has a 16-bar front and a 12-bar rear. The Pro-16 enhances the efficiency of picking taller, high-yield cotton plants. The Pro-12 VRS gives the operator the option of choosing between 15 to 40-inch rows. Fields with narrow rows and those with conventional row fields will benefit from the range offered.
How Large is the Fuel Tank?
Having to stop for fuel while in the middle of the field is a time-consuming setback that can slow down a productive day. The John Deere 9996 has a tank that can hold up to 200 gallons. That should be enough to keep the operator in the field longer, without having to stop for refills as often. Time spent harvesting instead of refueling is time well spent.
How Large is the Water Tank?
A 345-gallon tank will hold enough water to keep the harvest going without having to refill as often, leading to more efficient harvests.
What Tires are Available?
Dual drive tires are equipped to provide improved floatation and reduce ground compacting effects. There are cleat tires available to order as well.
High-Quality Aftermarket Parts
The John Deere CP9996 is an extremely versatile and durable picking machine, but you will eventually need to replace certain components in order to maintain the unit’s performance and reliability. Whenever you require John Deere replacement parts, contact us at Certi-Pik, USA to place an order for our aftermarket parts, or to speak with a member of staff to identify the part your cotton picker needs.
When you start searching for high-quality, used John Deere cotton picker parts, you will quickly find that they are almost impossible to find in some cases. At Certi-Pik, USA, our team of cotton picker part specialists is here to help you find the right part for the right price. Are you wondering if used parts are worth the time?
When you compare the pricing across a new part from the manufacturer, a used part from online markets, or a new aftermarket part from us, you will almost always be spending less on products not coming directly from the OEM manufacturer. Take a look at the items we have in our inventory and see for yourself that working with Certi-Pik, USA, will save you time and money.
Maintaining your cotton harvester requires that you inspect several components. When signs of deterioration are showing, you know it is time to replace the parts. Other signs of wear and tear are decreased efficiency and mechanical problems. If you are leaving a lot of cotton behind, something is wrong. Let’s take a closer look at some common issues:
- Leaving cotton behind: This generally indicates a problem with a component. Make some adjustments to the amount of pressure the pressure doors are applying to the plants and if that does not resolve the issue, take a closer look at some individual parts such as worn spindles, doffers, or moistener pads. If you use scrapping plates on your front or rear doors, check them also for wear or consider adding them. Picking conditions such as wetness of the plant could also affect your harvesters’ ability to pick well. On many occasions those who have switched from OEM style doors to our CTX line of pressure doors have experienced drastic improvement in the amount of cotton going in the basket and less left out in the field.
- Maintenance issues: Maintain your machines. Don’t just park them and expect them to work efficiently next season.
- Mechanical problems: Oil, dust, dirt, and debris can clog up your machinery. Keep everything as clear as possible and inspect your machine every day to ensure proper functionality. Be sure to pay special attention the to the doffing, moistener pad cleaning, and general suction areas to ensure your cotton has an open unobstructed path to get into your harvesters’ cotton containment area. We’ve made a few product improvements that are also worth considering such as our Anti-Plug Rear Pro16 service door and an Anti-Plug Clean out door used on the suction door. These can be used in place of the OEM designs, with no other alterations to your picking unit, to improve the volume of cotton flowing through your picking units’ suction area thus reducing plugging and increasing picking speed. Also consider checking your cotton blower fans: keeping lint off the blades will help keep the fan in balance and running smoothly.
What are the Downsides of Used Parts?
Used parts have an obvious downside from the get-go. They are used. When comparing a used part to a new part, you will almost always be able to see the difference. However, keep in mind that used parts tend to cost less than their new versions. Are you running an older machine? Instead of having replacement parts machined or special ordered, used parts may be available to keep you going. Deciding between new and used can also come down to how much you use your cotton picker. The more you use it, the higher-quality part you will want to use.
Components on cotton pickers encounter extraordinary wear and tear. This can make used parts questionable due to the fact that they have an unknown life expectancy, an unknown structural stability, and most likely do not come with a warranty at all. If they are warrantied, it may be for a short period of time. Used parts can be a risky investment. Other options provide excellent cost-saving benefits while still delivering high-end quality and durability.
How do Aftermarket Parts Compare?
Aftermarket parts give farmers an excellent option to replace worn-out components without having to spend the money on new factory parts. Certi-Pik, USA, is here to provide our customers with as many affordable options as possible. We have been working directly with cotton farmers for over 30 years and are proud of the work we do. We strive to be your trusted source for cotton picker replacement parts.
Using aftermarket parts is a fantastic way to save cash and keep your cotton picker going for another season or two. Cotton pickers have several parts that need to be inspected at the beginning of each season. If you do find a part that needs replaced, reach out to us, and we can get it to you quickly. At Certi-Pik, our priority is to get you exactly what you need as fast as possible.
