The manual gate box is the simplest gate Transland builds, and for a lot of operations it is still the right one. There is no hydraulic circuit and no electronics, which means less to install, less to maintain, and less to troubleshoot between loads.
Who it is for
Manual gates are typically more cost effective to install and maintain, which makes them the preferred choice for operators who do not perform much dry work or who are working to a budget. They are also the easiest of the three to learn. A manual gate is straightforward to understand and operate, which means a shorter training period for pilots. And because it does not rely on an external power source, there is nothing to wire and nothing to lose power to.
Sizes and configurations
Manual gates are built in 25″, 38″ and 41″ gate sizes with 5″ and 7.5″ doors. Inlet, spray valve, sump drain and flapper port arrangements vary by part number, including front and back inlets, 2″ quick disconnect and 3″ butterfly valve options, and cover plates where a port is not needed. Configurations are available for the Air Tractor 402/502 and 602/802 and for the Thrush 510 and 710.
Integration and upgrades
Every Transland gate box is engineered to integrate with Transland spreaders, SwathMasters and Satloc GPS systems, and gate boxes can be manufactured to fit other agricultural aircraft.
If your dry work increases later, conversion kits are available for 5″ and 7.5″ manual gates, to hydraulic or to electric, so the system can be upgraded without replacing the box.
