Fire Prevention

Keep foreign material from building up on the machine near potentially hot areas, such as bearings on the ends of baler rolls and slip-clutch. Remove this buildup as part of the regular service operations and at the end of each use.

Leaf blowers, blower-vacuums, or similar devices can be used to remove loose crop buildup. Compressed air can be used to remove more difficult buildup.

Avoid high-pressure power-washing next to the bearings to prevent damaging seals.

Check bearings regularly for early signs of failure, replace as necessary. Turn off power to baler and check for unusual noises, hot parts, smells of scorching, and discolored paint or metal. Check condition of bearings. (See FIRE PREVENTION in Lubrication and Maintenance section.)

If service operations require using a welder, cutting torch or grinder on the baler, these guidelines can prove useful in preventing a fire:

1. Park baler on pavement or bare ground.

2. Remove chaff to minimize exposure of flammable material to sparks; if chaff cannot be removed, soak it thoroughly with water before starting. Protect hoses and belts from exposure to sparks, arcs, or flames.

3. Be sure a fully charged water-type fire extinguisher or other source of water is ready for immediate use.

4. Use an assistant to watch for fire while welding, cutting, or grinding.

5. After welding, cutting or grinding is finished, wait long enough to allow parts to cool down before starting to bale. Verify that no sparks or slag have started a fire before leaving service area.