Instruction Manual

OPERATION
Configuration
Advantage
High and fluffy Movement of ai
r through the windrow is more important to
the curing pro
cess than is direct sunlight.
Consistent formation, not bunchy Permits an even flow of material into the baler, chopper,
etc. and allows for more even drying.
Even distribution of material across windrow
Results in ev
en a nd consistent bales t o minimize handling
and stackin
gproblems.
Properly conditioned
Prevents excessive leaf damage.
4.11.5 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 formi
ng 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 win drow is necessary.
4.11.6 Raking and Tedding
Raking o
r tedding sp eeds up drying, however, benefits must be evaluated against additional leaf losses which will
be the re
sult.
There i
s 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 sho
uld not be raked or tedded at less than 25% moisture, or excessive yield losses will result.
4.11.
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 benefit s relative to your area should be carefully evaluate d.
169899 82 Revision A