Requirements & preperation, Warning, Warning caution – Modern AG Bale Spear User Manual
Page 5

Bale Spears & Carrier - 5
REqUiREMENTS & PREPERaTiON
The quick attach bale spears are designed to
handle up ti 2,500 lbs. bales. Rear 3 pt. hitch
mounted bale spears & carrier are designed,
depending on model, to handle up to 2,000
lb. bales. All models feature a tapered “forged”
spring steel spear designed for tight center
bales allowing easier spear penetration into and
withdrawal from bales. A special tapered socket
provides support for the spear.
the 3 pt. & quick attach spear models fit most
Category I.
NOTE: The maximum load for the attachments is
as follows:
Model Capacity
318-1006-I (Quick attach). . . . . 2,500 lbs.
318-1005-I (Quick attach) . . . . . 2,500 lbs.
020-1500 (3pt) . . . . . . 2,000 lbs
020-1502 (3pt) . . . . . . 2,000 lbs
TRaCTOR REqUiREMENTS aND
PREPaRaTiON:
The required size of the tractor and front loader
will be determined by the size and weight of the
bales to be handled.
Remember, high moisture hay (silage) bales are
very heavy in relation to similar size dry hay
bales. Always use a tractor large enough to safe-
ly handle your bales.
Check the tractor’s hydraulic lift system. It should
operate up and down smoothly and hold its po-
sition when set. Refer to your tractor owner’s
manual or dealer for any adjustments necessary
to put the hydraulic lift system in good working
order.
Check the hydraulic system. Be sure the tractor
hydraulic oil and filter have been serviced ac-
cording to the tractor manufacturer’s recom-
mendations.
tractor should be equipped with stabilizer bars,
adjustable sway chains, or sway blocks to keep
the implement from swinging side to side.
Smaller size tractors may need front counter
weights to counter-balance the weight of the
implement.
It is recommended that the tractor be equipped
with a Rollover Protection System (ROPS) and a
seat belt that is used.
Be sure your tractor is in good condition. Read all
the safety precautions and make sure all tractor
operators are familiar with the safety rules of op-
eration.
When using the unit, a minimum 20% of tractor
and equipment weight must be on tractor front
wheels. Without this weight, tractor could tip up,
causing possible loss of control and possible per-
sonal injury or death. The weight may be attained
with a front end loader, front wheel weights, ballast
in tires or front tractor weights. When attaining a
minimum 20% of tractor and equipment weight
on the front wheels, you must not exceed the ROPS
weight certification. Weigh the tractor and equip-
ment. DO NOT GUESS OR ESTIMATE!
A heavy load can cause instability in driving a
tractor. Make sure the front of the tractor is prop-
erly counter-balanced with weights. Always drive
slowly – especially around turns. An unstable trac-
tor could steer badly and possibly tip over, caus-
ing injury or death.
Do not exceed the maximum recommended large
round bale weight listed for each of the loader
spear models. Damage to the equipment or seri-
ous personal injury could result.
WaRNiNG
WaRNiNG
WaRNiNG
CaUTiON