Lanco Manufacturing's new LS1750 fertilizer spreader has a 5-ton capacity, 11-gauge stainless steel hopper. Non-corrosive #304 stainless steel is also used in the web conveyor, dual spinners, and mid and rear cross members. The spreader also features a metering system with a full range of gate opening choices, a hopper cover, and tires suitable for field use. Transport lighting, surge brakes and roadworthy tires are available as options. A 2-ton capacity model is also available. Call 717-944-1841.
ATV gate lets four-wheelers drive over it
A new, patented ATV gate kit from Pivotal Fencing Systems allows four-wheelers to drive over the top of it. Gates can be installed in openings as narrow as 20 feet wide, but can be adjusted to fit larger openings to allow vehicles to also pass. ATV drivers may pass in either direction. When driven over, the gate's post assembly bends down and the shock cord stretches. Once the four-wheeler has crossed, the spring-loaded post stands back up and the shock cord retracts. Multiple shock cord assemblies may be installed. When used in existing gate openings, the ATV gate can be swung open and left in the fence line until needed. Contact 970/848-5500 or pivotpost.com.
Battery-powered grease gun delivers 10 cartridges per charge
Alemite recently introduced the industry's first 14.4-volt battery-powered grease gun, the model 585. One fully charged battery in the gun can deliver up to 10 cartridges of grease, the company says, with the ability to develop 10,000 PSI for unclogging problem fittings. The 585 features ergonomic design, an optional carrying strap, a 14.4 -volt motor equipped with a thermal protector, and a flexible 3' long hose. Contact 866-425-36483 or alemite.com.
New pocket PC software handles multiple animal types
Farm Works Software has launched Stock Mate, a new program for the handheld pocket PC or laptop computer. It is designed to handle multiple animal types including cattle, hogs, dairy, sheep and horses. Birth, mating, weaning, health, feed, and weight information can all be entered, as well as detailed history records, pregnancy checks and vaccination reminders for each animal. Once entered, data can be downloaded to the Farm Works Farm Stock program on a desktop computer with the touch of a button. Stock Mate is available for $250 per handheld device, with discounts for multiple copies.
A newly upgraded version of Farm Stock software from Farm Works is also now available. Version 10 features a redesigned full-screen layout with tabs; the ability to save multiple weights per animal and enter additional health records; redesigned reports that can be exported to Word, Excel or text formats; and an upgraded custom report builder. It sells for $150, but that price will increase January 1, 2005. Upgrades are currently available for $95. Call 800/225-2848 or visit farmworks.com.
Keep birds away without harming them
BirdShield, a new food-grade, biodegradable bird repellent from Bird-X, Inc., is now available. The product can be painted or sprayed (when mixed with an equal quantity of water) on porous, non-porous or sealed surfaces, and even directly on nests, leaving a residue with a grape-like odor, which irritates the birds without harming them. Sparrows, starlings, pigeons, barn swallo w s , gulls, woodp eckers, predators and other birds are affected, the company says. The product, which was developed with assistance from the USDA, is listed as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) by the US FDA, and as a "reduced risk" ingredient by the EPA. The company says once birds have been trained to avoid the area (usually after a few treatments), continuous application is not necessary. One-gallon containers are available for $95 at 800/662-5021 or bird-x.com. 10/15/2004 02:11 p.m.CDT