
McHale
F5400
Baler
61
9
Field operation & machine adjustments
9.1 Break-in period
McHale
recommend a break-in period of approximately the first 50 bales or until the
paint within the machine has lost its shine. After the initial break-in period the tension
of all the chains on the machine should be checked and adjusted, as required
. Ensure that all grease points are adequately greased to prevent
rapid wear of components.
9.2 Swath preparation
An optimum baler performance of the machine requires a good swath preparation in
advance. The optimum swath width is 1.5 m
.
In the case where narrower swaths are unavoidable, it is recommended that the swath
be periodically directed 30 - 40 m to the right-hand side and also the same distance to
the left-hand side of the pick-up as the baler is driven over the swath.
Collect the material into one side of the pick-up for 6 - 8 seconds. Then cross over the
windrow and collect material for the same duration. Reduce the length of time for heavy
windrows and increase for lighter windrows.
Continuous weaving is not recommended as this will result in excessive material being
placed towards the centre of the bale.
NOTE: Making bales greater than the maximum diameter is not
recommended on a frequent basis
It is important to realise that roller and drive loads increase as the bale
size approaches its maximum diameter. As such, frequently making
bales greater than the maximum diameter, by pressing and holding the
‘Net On / Net Delay’ button on the control box, is not recommended as
this can lead to premature failure of components. Ensure that all grease
points are adequately greased to prevent rapid wear of components.
NOTE: Swath width is the most important factor in proper bale
formation
A 1.5 m swath width provides optimum material flow into the bale
chamber for even bale formation. A swath width greater or less than
1.5 m will lead to increased bale deformation.