MacDon 963 Harvest Header - Manual (Page 27)

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HEADER OPERATION
Windrowing
The factors listed below will all affect the formation of the windrow. You will quickly become adept at adjusting
these variables to achieve the desired results.
NOTE: Crop condition is a major factor in forming a good windrow. While standing or uniformly leaning crops
can generally be easily formed into an acceptable windrow, such is not the case when stalks are tangled or
leaning in several directions.
GROUND SPEED
Ground speed should be such that the sickle can cut crop smoothly and cleanly, while giving the desired
windrow formation.
Ground speed affects the orientation of stalks in the windrow. Increasing ground speed will cause the
configuration of the windrow to go from parallel formation to herringbone or dovetail. See "Windrow
Characteristics" in this section.
CUTTING HEIGHT
For grain crops the windrow should normally be laid on stubble from 6 to 8 inches high (150 - 200 mm).
Benefits of a stubble of this height:
• Allows free circulation of air under the windrow for more even drying.
• Supports the windrow without bending.
• Keeps grain heads from contacting ground. Heads that touch the ground are difficult to pick up and will
sprout in damp weather.
HEADER ANGLE
Steeper draper angles tend to form herringbone or dovetail configurations, while flatter draper angles form
parallel or fantail windrows. See "Windrow Characteristics" in this section.
DRAPER SPEED
Draper speed affects the orientation of stalks in the windrow. Faster draper speeds will tend to form
herringbone or dovetail configurations. See "Windrow Characteristics" in this section.
REEL SPEED
Reel speed affects the smoothness and evenness of the windrow. Operating the reel too fast or too slow
relative to ground speed will cause bunching.