Countyline Middle Buster

Breaking New Ground with the Versatile Countyline Middle Buster

The Countyline Middle Buster is an essential piece of equipment for any farmer or homesteader looking to turn over soil and break new ground. With its rugged construction and ability to penetrate tough soils, this middle buster provides an efficient and reliable way to prep fields for planting.

But with so many models and options available, how do you know which Countyline Middle Buster is right for you? This comprehensive buying guide takes an in-depth look at this versatile tool, including where to buy, how it works, key features, attachments, reviews, and everything else you need to make an informed purchase. Let’s dig in!

Where to Buy a Countyline Middle Buster

Countyline equipment is sold through farm supply stores, hardware stores, co-ops, and online retailers. When purchasing, look for an authorized Countyline dealer to ensure you receive genuine parts, warranty coverage, and proper assembly and setup.

Some top places to buy include:

• Tractor Supply Company – Large in-store selection of Countyline tillage tools including middle busters. Many locations also offer assembly and delivery services.
• Rural King – Carries the Countyline line of implements both in-store and online. Competitive pricing and free shipping on orders over $99.
• Amazon – Convenient way to purchase and often with free shipping. Ensure seller is authorized Countyline dealer.
• Farm & Fleet – Good availability of Countyline products through their stores and website. Price match guarantee.
• ACE Hardware – Many ACE stores stock Countyline equipment. Check online inventory for local availability.
• Countyline – Purchase direct from the manufacturer via their website.

When buying, inspect for damage during shipping and ensure all parts are included. Consider how far you need delivery and if assembly is required.

How the Countyline Middle Buster Works

The Countyline Middle Buster consists of a strong steel shank with a forged, heat treated point attached to a sturdy frame mount. It works by harnessing the power of your tractor to drag the shank through the soil, forcing the point to penetrate and fracture compacted ground.

The marriage of the sharp point and sturdy shank lets the middle buster easily slice through hard, undisturbed earth up to 10 inches deep. As it moves, the soil is lifted and turned over, creating a deep furrow. This action aerates and mixes the ground, preparing the perfect seedbed for planting.

Middle busters get their name from being designed to work the center section between rows. They break through the densely packed tractor wheel tracks. The Countyline model is compatible with tractors up to 140 HP. Its simple design requires minimal maintenance for lasting value.

Key Features of the Countyline Middle Buster

The Countyline Middle Buster is packed with features to provide reliable and efficient performance season after season. Here are some of its notable features:

• Heat treated, high carbon steel point – Specially forged point stays sharp, resisting wear and abrasion. Easily penetrates compacted soils.
• Thick 1/2 inch shank – Provides rigidity and strength to fracture tough earth. Flexes to follow ground contours.
• Heavy duty category 3 frame mount – Allows for better down force and minimal flexing during operation. Made to absorb shocks from hard ground.
• Grease fittings – Allows regular lubrication to prevent rust and enhance longevity of components.
• Multiple hole height adjustment – Allows customization of dig depth from 3 to 10 inches. Adapts to tractors with varying hitch heights.
• Shear bolt protected – Bolt designed to shear if obstruction is hit to prevent damage to implement and tractor. Easy bolt replacement.
• Low maintenance – Simple rugged design requires little upkeep for lasting performance. Just occasional lubrication and sharpening of point.
• Painted finish – Powder coat paint resists rust, scratches and UV damage.

Attaching to Your Tractor

One of the great benefits of the Countyline Middle Buster is how easy it is to attach to your tractor. Here is the basic process:

1. Park your tractor and engage the brake. Turn off the engine.
2. Slide the top mounting bracket over top of the tractor drawbar and align the holes.
3. Insert category 3 tractor pins through the aligned holes and fasten with lynch pins to secure.
4. Attach lower stabilizer arms to tractor hitch clevis using provided pins and lynch pins. Adjust to allow buster to hang level.
5. Attach hydraulic top link to upper mounting hole using provided pin and lynch pin. Allows for dig depth adjustment.
6. Route hydraulic lines from tractor to middle buster cylinder avoiding pinch points. Use hose clamps to secure.

Always ensure implements are securely mounted and hydraulic connections are tight. Double check by lifting implement a few inches then rechecking all connections. Refer to your specific tractor manual for proper implement attachment.

Overview of the Countyline Middle Buster Price

The Countyline Middle Buster provides excellent value for the performance. The price typically falls between $1,200 – $1,500 based on size and features. Here’s a more detailed look:

• 41-69 inch 3-point models: $1,200 – $1,400
• 50-85 inch pull-type models: $1,300 – $1,600
• Heavy duty deep digger models: $1,500 – $1,800

Shanks, points, mounts, and replacement parts range from $50 – $500. Look for sales events and seasonal discounts at retailers like Tractor Supply for potential savings. Package deals with tractors can also bring the price down.

Consider the total costs of transport and assembly. For the value, durability, and performance, the Countyline Middle Buster offers an excellent and affordable solution for busting your acres.

User Reviews of the Countyline Middle Buster

With hundreds of satisfied users, the Countyline Middle Buster earns stellar reviews for its ability to power through tough soils with ease. Here are some thoughts from actual owners:

“I use this middle buster to fracture my extremely compacted clay ground before planting. It digs down deep with ease allowing my chisel plow to really stir the soil. Well built and reasonably priced.”

“I’ve owned this middle buster for 3 seasons now. It still runs strong with little need for maintenance. I just grease the cylinder ram occasionally and sharpen the point when needed. It works my fields perfectly.”

“I attached this to my John Deere and it allows me to really bust up my soil between rows with minimal tractor work. It’s like having a mini plow that gets into corners larger equipment can’t. Awesome purchase.”

Owners love the easy attachment to their tractors and the rugged durability that allows the buster to penetrate and fracture soil year after year. For those dealing with compacted ground and unfavorable soil conditions, it’s an essential and efficient tool.

Uses of the Countyline Middle Buster

A middle buster like the Countyline model serves many uses for farmers and homesteaders. Here are some of its common applications:

• Breaking up plow pans in fields
• Preparing seed beds in dense, crusted soil
• Aerating and mixing soil between crop rows
• Tilling hard to reach spots larger equipment can’t access
• Cultivating trenches for drainage, irrigation, and electrical
• Installing drainage tile lines underground
• Digging holes for fence posts
• Removing roots from the ground
• Turning under cover crops and fertilizer
• Preparing vegetable and flower gardens
• Leveling and furrowing land for planting

With its deep tillage action, the middle buster is a versatile addition to any rural or homesteading toolkit.

The Durability of Countyline Middle Busters

A major benefit of the Countyline Middle Buster is its rugged, durable construction. It’s designed for consistent performance and longevity even under demanding conditions.

Key durability factors include:

• Thick 1/2 inch heat treated steel shank – The heart of the buster, this shank endures incredible strain without bending or breaking. It flexes and returns to shape.
• Cast iron housing – The main body is made of cast nodular iron that can withstand thousands of pounds of pressure and force.
• Greaseable joints – Friction points feature grease zerks to prevent wear and shield components.
• Reinforced stress points – Critical areas are thicker and reinforced for increased toughness.
• Powder coat finish – Paint maintains appearance but also resists rust corrosion even with exposure to the elements.
• Shear bolt protection – Specially engineered bolt prevents damage by shearing if shank encounters an obstruction.

With proper operation and maintenance, it’s not uncommon for a Countyline Middle Buster to provide over a decade of trouble-free service. This durability translates to great value for the investment.

Middle Buster Materials and Composition

Countyline Middle Busters utilize a strategic combination of metals to balance durability, rigidity, and flexibility where needed. Here are the key materials used:

• Carbon steel shank – The shank is made from thick, high carbon steel for strength to penetrate packed earth with minimal flexing.
• Heat treated point – Special heat treating and forging process maximizes hardness of the replaceable point for wear resistance.
• Nodular cast iron body – Cast iron housings provide a stable base able to absorb shocks without cracking.
• Alloy steel bolts – High grade steel threaded rods connect components securely.
• Greaseable steel zerks – Rust resistant fittings allow routine lubrication for smooth pivot points.
• Rubber hydraulic hoses – Flexible oil hoses route hydraulic power to lift and lower the shank.

Selecting the optimal materials gives the middle buster the ideal blend of toughness, rigidity, and flexibility for the forces involved in soil penetration and fracture.

Tractor Compatibility and Requirements

The Countyline Middle Buster is designed for use with most standard modern tractors. Here are the basic requirements:

• Horsepower range: 20 to 140 HP
• 3-point hitch: Category 1 compatible or category 2 with optional pins
• Hydraulic capacity: Capable of supplying 5-8 GPM for lift cylinder
• Drawbar: Required for pull-type models to transfer draft forces
• Power take-off: Not required

Larger models may necessitate tractors at higher end of the horsepower range. Always check your specific tractor manual for proper implement use.

With their simple attachment system, Countyline Middle Busters work with brands like John Deere, Massey Ferguson, Ford, Kubota, Mahindra, Case IH, New Holland, and more. Their versatile compatibility makes them easy to add to your farm.

Maintenance Tips for Countyline Middle Busters

To keep your Countyline Middle Buster in peak operating condition, follow these key maintenance practices:

• Grease pivot points – Use grease gun on zerks every 8-10 hours to prevent wear and rust buildup.
• Check hardware – Examine bolts, lynch pins, and fasteners. Tighten or replace if loose.
• Inspect hoses – Look for hydraulic hose damage. Replace deteriorated hoses.
• Clean shank and point – Remove built up debris to prevent accumulation in frame.
• Touch up paint – Spot paint any scratches to inhibit rust formation.
• Replace shear bolts – Carry extra bolts and replace immediately when sheared.
• Sharpen point – Use angle grinder to resharpen flat point when wear rounding occurs.
• Remove and inspect shank – Monthly, pull shank and check for bends or cracks needing repair.

Regular low-cost maintenance enhances performance and significantly extends the usable life of your middle buster. It’s a valuable implement worth protecting.

Availability of Replacement Parts

Countyline maintains a thorough stock of replacement parts for their Middle Buster models. Common parts include:

• Points – Available in widths from 6 to 24 inches. May require periodic replacement when worn.
• Shanks – If bending or damage occurs, new shanks can be installed.
• Hydraulic cylinders – Rods, fittings, and seals are replaceable to repair leaks.
• Shear bolts – Stock these to replace immediately when broken to avoid damage.
• Frame components – Mounting brackets, stabilizer bars, and hardware can all be replaced.
• Hoses, fittings, zerks – Parts for the hydraulic system are available.

Many dealers keep replacement parts in stock. You can also order direct from Countyline. Using genuine factory components ensures proper fit and performance.

Countyline Middle Buster Warranty Coverage

Countyline provides a 1-year limited warranty on middle busters and parts manufactured after 2018. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship only. Wear parts like points and shear bolts are excluded.

It’s important to adhere to operating guidelines and maintenance procedures to avoid voiding the warranty. Work with your dealer if any issues develop to determine if factory authorized repairs or part replacements may be covered.

While middle busters are designed for longevity, it’s reassuring to know Countyline stands behind their products in the case of failure. Just maintain your documentation and proof of purchase.

Cleaning the Middle Buster After Use

It’s important to remove built up soil and debris from your middle buster after each use. Follow this process:

1. Use a shovel to scrape off large packed soil chunks. Be careful around grease zerks.
2. Use a stiff brush and scrape other caked on dirt from the shank, point, and frame.
3. Rinse the implement with a garden hose taking care around hydraulics.
4. Wipe hydraulic cylinder rods clean and lubricate with non-detergent oil.
5. Touch up paint scratches and nicks to prevent surface rust.
6. Grease all zerks until new grease purges out.
7. Tighten any loose hardware. Replace broken or sheared bolts.

Proper cleaning and lubrication after each use will keep your middle buster operating smoothly for years on end. It also makes inspection and maintenance easier.

Countyline Middle Buster Specifications

Countyline offers a range of Middle Buster models but typical specifications are:

• Shank length: 36 to 84 inches
• Shank thickness: 1/2 inch
• Shank width: 2 to 3 inches
• Point width: 6 to 24 inches
• Point thickness: 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 inches
• Dig depth: Adjustable 3 to 10 inches
• Frame sizes: Category 1 and 2
• Tractor range: 20 to 140 HP
• Approximate weight: 150 to 375 pounds
• Hydraulic cylinder: 2 or 2 1/2 inch bore

Always verify specifications on your individual model as they can vary based on size and features. Measure shank width between the grease zerks.

Weight and Dimensions

Countyline Middle Buster weights range from 150 to 375 lbs based on size and model. Approximate weight by model:

• CB05130: 163 pounds
• CB05140: 150 pounds
• CB06145: 225 pounds
• CB05160: 375 pounds

Dimensionally, the tool is centered around the shank length which varies from 36 to 84 inches long. Total length including frame bracket can exceed 10 feet on the largest models.

Being a 3 point mounted implement, most of the weight is low which improves stability. Still, it’s heavy enough to require a sturdy tractor lift capacity of around 1,500 pounds.

Assembly and Instructions

Countyline Middle Busters come partially assembled but do require some construction. Here’s what’s involved:

• Bolt frame mount pieces together
• Attach lower stabilizer bars
• Mount shank into frame bracket
• Attach hydraulic cylinder and fittings
• Mount to tractor 3 point hitch
• Route and secure hydraulic hoses

Instructions with diagrams are provided to detail the assembly process. All hardware and tools needed are included besides basic wrenches and screwdrivers.

Dealers can provide expert assembly for an added fee. With patience, most DIYers can assemble the kit in an hour or two using the manual. Watching online videos can also help clarify any confusing steps.

Helpful Middle Buster Usage Videos

Because the Countyline Middle Buster is a simple implement, using it is very straightforward. But videos can still help reinforce proper operation.

Here are some useful clips:

How to Attach a Middle Buster – Good visuals showing 3 point hitch and hydraulic connection.

Operating a Middle Buster – Farmer demonstrates using the buster in field conditions.

Replacing a Broken Shear Bolt – Quick change out when shear bolts fail.

DIY Middle Buster – Creating your own basic middle buster.

Adjusting Middle Buster Digging Depth – Using hydraulics to set furrow depth.

Videos are a great resource to consult when using or servicing your middle buster implement.

Adjusting for Different Soil Conditions

A key advantage of the Countyline Middle Buster is the ability to adjust settings for optimized performance in different soil types.

In loose, soft soil:

• Use narrow 6 to 12 inch points
• Set dig depth to 6 to 8 inches
• Increase tractor speed for maximum fracture

In wet, sticky soil:

• Use wider point up to 24 inches
• Reduce dig depth to 3 to 5 inches
• Slow tractor speed to allow soil to flow over point

In dry, compressed soil:

• Select ripper-type point
• Use maximum depth around 10 inches
• Reduce speed for point to penetrate

In stony conditions:

• Add stone guards to deflect rocks
• Use shear bolts to prevent damage
• Set shank at an angle to direct stones downward

Take a few passes to dial in settings for your specific fields. Adjusting the Countyline Middle Buster helps optimize performance across soil types.

Available Middle Buster Accessories

Countyline and aftermarket companies offer accessories to enhance the functionality of middle busters:

• Clevis Hitch Bracket – Allows pull-type conversion on 3 point models for added maneuverability.
• Hydraulic Side Shift Kit – Lets you move the shank left and right using tractor hydraulics.
• Front/Rear Blade – Horizontal blades installed in front or behind shank for additional ground work.
• Stone Guards/Deflectors – Help protect shank and point from damage when working in rocky soils.
• Extreme Service Kits – Heavier duty components for additional strength when doing custom land clearing work.
• Specialty Points – Ripper, bedder, and trencher points for specialized applications.
• Rear Mounted Rollers – Firm and level soil after it’s been worked by the buster.

Customizing your middle buster with attachments extends its capabilities for your unique needs.

Conclusion

The Countyline Middle Buster is the go-to implement for farmers and homesteaders needing an affordable, rugged tool to break up and aerate soil. With incredible ground penetration ability and versatile adjustability, it prepares the perfect seedbed or garden area. And thanks to durable construction, it will deliver years of reliable service.

I hope this comprehensive guide covered all the key details about the Countyline Middle Buster to help you determine if it’s the right solution for your land. Just match it to a suitable tractor, follow use and maintenance best practices, and you’ll be well equipped to take on the toughest soils.