Make a Bale with Bale Shape Indicators

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The illustration on the facing page and the following information describes the relationship between the display, windrow variations, and actual bale shape.

To ensure optimum bale shape and maximum bale density, the bale shape indicators for all three locations must be at the same height, as shown in Example I. (Refer to Guidelines to Form a Good Bale in this section.)

I— Best shape bales (B) are formed when the windrow (A) has a uniform side-to-side density (I) and the windrow width is the same as the bale chamber width. Weaving is not necessary.

If this is not practical, create windrows up to one-half the width of the bale chamber and follow the bale shape bars. (Refer to Guidelines to Form a Good Bale in this section.)

II— If a full-width windrow (C) is heavy on the outside edges and light at the center, an hourglass shaped bale (D) is formed even though the side bale shape bars are balanced.

If possible, weaving back and forth across the windrow helps fill the middle of the bale. Otherwise, proper windrow formation (for example raking) can be needed.

III— Bale shape side bars are balanced and a barrel-shaped bale (F) is formed if any of the following conditions exist:

• Windrow width (E) is approximately 2/3—3/4 the width of the baler.
• Windrow width is correct but the operator is not weaving over far enough.
• Windrow width is full width but density in the middle of the windrow is greater.
• Baler is weaving back and forth too frequently.

The windrow width must be less than one-half of the bale chamber width or as wide as the bale chamber. If necessary, rake windrows to obtain the correct width.

IV— If a narrow windrow (G) is baled without weaving back and forth, a cone-shaped bale (H) is formed because more material is fed to one side.

To keep the bale shape bars as balanced as possible, weave back and forth across narrow windrows.

Bale shape bars may not reach maximum height when operating at reduced bale density and when the soft core option is enabled. This is also true when operating in certain crops such as third cut grass or short wheat straw, because the ends of the bale are soft.