Start and Operate the Baler

IMPORTANT: Do not disengage PTO during the tying cycle as flywheel shear bolt will shear when re-engaged.

Engage tractor PTO and slowly increase engine speed to obtain a drive shaft speed of 540 rpm. The plungerhead must normally operate at 80 strokes per minute under load for 339 and 349 balers, 92 strokes for a 359 baler, and 100 strokes for a 459 baler. The baler may not produce uniform bales until a sufficient compression is built up to turn the bale measuring wheel.

If hay does not fill the bale case, increase ground speed or windrow size. The baler is operating efficiently when it is making 12—18 strokes per 90 cm (36 in.) bale or 5—8 cm (2—3 in.) of compressed material per stroke.

IMPORTANT: If the auger drive belt slips, baler is being crowded, which may result in damage.

NOTE: For good bale shape, adjust overhead feeder forks and make uniform windrows. Operate in a higher tractor gear and reduce engine speed, if necessary.

Rough ground conditions may require ground speed or windrow adjustment. Clean out chaff and trash daily from around tying mechanism and plungerhead stop.

Adjust plungerhead after the first 1000 bales and thereafter as necessary.