MacDon R80 Rotary Disc Pull-Type Windrower - Manual (Page 53)

OPERATION
Form # 169053
51
Model Year - 2009
6.15.4 Windrow Characteristics
It is recommended that a windrow with the
following characteristics be produced. Refer to
Section 6.13 Header Operation for instructions
on adjusting the mower conditioner.
CHARACTERISTIC ADVANTAGE
High And Fluffy
The movement of air through
the windrow is more
important to the curing
process than direct sunlight.
Consistent
Formation, Not
Bunchy
Permits an even flow of
material into the baler,
chopper etc.
Even Distribution
of Material Across
Windrow
Results in even and
consistent bales to minimize
handling and stacking
problems.
Properly
Conditioned
Prevents excessive leaf
damage.
6.15.5 Driving On Windrow
Driving on previously cut windrows can lengthen
drying time by a full day in hay that will not be
raked.
If practical, set forming shields for a narrower
windrow that can be straddled.
NOTE
Driving on the windrow in high yielding
crops may be unavoidable if a full width
windrow is necessary.
6.15.6 Raking And Tedding
Raking or tedding speeds up drying, however
the benefits must be weighted against the
additional leaf losses which will result. There is
little or no advantage to raking or tedding if the
ground beneath the windrow is dry.
Large windrows on damp or wet ground should
be turned over when they reach 40-50%
moisture. Hay should not be raked or tedded at
less than 25% moisture, or excessive yield
losses will result.
6.15.7 Chemical Drying Agents
Hay drying agents work by removing wax from
legume surfaces, enabling water to escape and
evaporate faster. However, treated hay lying on
wet ground will also absorb ground moisture
faster.
Before deciding to use a drying agent, costs and
benefits relative to your area should be carefully
compared.
6.16 STORAGE
Do the following at the end of each operating
season:
a. Clean the mower conditioner thoroughly.
CAUTION
Never use gasoline, naphtha or any volatile
material for cleaning purposes. These
materials may be toxic and/or flammable.
CAUTION
Cover cutterbar to prevent injury from
accidental contact.
b. Store in a dry, protected place if possible. If
stored outside, always cover mower conditioner
with a waterproof canvas or other protective
material.
c. Raise header and engage lift cylinder lock-outs.
d. If possible, block up the mower conditioner to
take weight off tires.
e. Repaint all worn or chipped painted surfaces to
prevent rust.
f. Loosen drive belts.
g. Lubricate the mower conditioner thoroughly,
leaving excess grease on fittings to keep
moisture out of bearings. Apply grease to
exposed threads, cylinder rods and sliding
surfaces of components. Oil cutterbar
components to prevent rust.
h. Check for worn components and repair as
necessary.
i. Check for broken components and order
replacement from your dealer. Attention to
these items right away will save time and effort
at beginning of next season.
j. Replace or tighten any missing or loose
hardware. Refer to Section 7.3.1 Recommended
Torques.
k. Remove divider rods (if equipped) to reduce
space required for inside storage.