Reel Speed; Optional Reel Drive Sprockets - MacDon FlexDraper FD1 Series Operator's Manual

Versatile combines:
Versatile combines use a combination of the reel fore-aft switches on the control handle and a factory-installed
auxiliary rocker switch on the combine control console which toggles between reel fore-aft and header tilt
functionality.
1. Press ON switch (A) on console to place controls in
HEADER TILT mode.
2. Press button (B) on control handle to tilt header forward
(steeper angle) or button (C) to tilt header back
(shallower angle).

3.7.6 Reel Speed

Reel speed is one of the factors that determines how crop is moved from the cutterbar onto the drapers.
The reel performs best when it appears to be driven by the ground. It should move the cut crop evenly through the
cutterbar and onto the drapers without bunching and with minimal disturbance.
In standing crop, reel speed should be slightly higher than, or equal to, ground speed.
In flattened crop or crop that is leaning away from the cutterbar, the reel speed needs to be higher than the ground
speed. To achieve this, either increase the reel speed or decrease the ground speed.
Excessive shattering of grain heads or crop loss over the header backtube may indicate that the reel speed is too
high. Excessive reel speed also increases reel component wear and overloads the reel drive.
Slower reel speeds can be used with nine-bat reels, which is advantageous in shatter-prone crops.
NOTE:
For more information about converting a six-bat reel to a nine-bat reel for 9.1 m and 10.7 m (30 ft. and 35 ft.)
headers. Refer to 6.2.4 PR15 Tine Tube Reel Conversion Kit, page
For recommended reel speeds in specific crops and conditions, refer to
The reel speed is adjustable using the controls in the combine cab. Refer to your combine operator's manual for
adjustment details.

Optional Reel Drive Sprockets

Optional reel drive sprockets for use in special crop conditions are available as an alternative to the
factory-installed sprocket.
The header is factory-equipped with a 19-tooth reel drive sprocket, which is suitable for most crops. Other
sprockets are available that provide more torque to the reel in heavy cutting conditions or allow for higher reel
speeds in light crops when operating at increased ground speeds. Refer to Table
MacDon Dealer for ordering information.
214683
OPERATION
B
Figure 3.91: Versatile Control Handle and
Console
547.
3.6.2 Header Settings, page
89
C
A
43.
3.14, page 90, and contact your
Revision A