Scouting out a Lowlander

Lowlander vertical auger muck spreaders follow a design format that employs a moving floor that feeds material to the rear augers that shred and spread it. Simple. The ‘problem’ of course is that there is no such thing as ‘typical’ muck, those that use these machines on a contract basis typically spreading everything from hugely variable FYM, semi-solid slurries right through to industrial by-products to include sticky powdery materials such as gypsum. Each of these presents a different spreading challenge, but most expect one machine to spread the lot.

A further demand is consistent spreading accuracy over a wider spread width to help reduce in-field trafficking. Add the ever-growing demand for high rates of productivity and it should come as no surprise that these muck spreaders have evolved. Add subtle tweaks and developments, such as the option of fitting weigh cells, and it follows there is more to securing a pre-owned spreader than just checking it is mechanically sound.

The development of Lowlander muck spreaders reflects the evolution in the approach to dealing with what we generically call muck in terms of both throughput and accuracy. A spreader will obviously need to apply muck in as an economical way as possible and do so within a relatively short time frame but also do this with recordable accuracy. For many, the best option is using a trusted contractor. The right outfit will be able to get the job done quickly, distribute accurately and do the job cost effectively. The snag is contractors are increasingly tied up with other work when the spreading window opens up. This is when being able to do the job yourself has its attractions.

When considering buying a pre-owned muck spreader, do not assume a private or auction buy will be the cheapest option. Check