McHale F5500 Operator's Instruction Manual
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McHale F5500 Operator's Instruction Manual

McHale F5500 Operator's Instruction Manual

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F5500
Baler
Operator Instruction Manual
Issue 5
McHale
Ballinrobe
Co. Mayo
F31 K138 Ireland
ISO 9001:2015
Tel: +353 94 9520300
Email: sales@mchale.net
Website: www.mchale.net
CLT00403_6

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Summary of Contents for McHale F5500

  • Page 1 F5500 Baler Operator Instruction Manual Issue 5 McHale Ballinrobe Co. Mayo F31 K138 Ireland ISO 9001:2015 Tel: +353 94 9520300 Email: sales@mchale.net Website: www.mchale.net CLT00403_6...
  • Page 2 If there is any conflict as to the accuracy or content, of any translation, the English source manual remains the authorised document. No part of this manual may be reproduced, distributed or translated, in any form or by any means, without prior written permission by McHale.
  • Page 3 It is vital to replace defective parts of the machine immediately and to use only genuine McHale spare parts, as these are designed and manufactured to the same standard as the original machine. Spare parts can be obtained from your McHale dealer.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    McHale F5500 Baler Table of contents Introduction Product information Designated use of the machine Front view Rear view General specifications Tractor specifications Machine specifications Tyre specifications Optional equipment* General safety Be aware of all safety information Follow all safety instructions...
  • Page 5 McHale F5500 Baler Lighting system Machine requirements & preparation Net requirements Care of the net roll Care of the net wrapping system Loading & operating the netter system Net layer adjustment setting Chopper unit knife removal & installation Automatic lubrication system...
  • Page 6 McHale F5500 Baler 11.2 Start of season Troubleshooting 12.1 Troubleshooting overview Certification & Warranty 13.1 Declaration of Conformity 13.2 PDI form 13.3 Change of ownership pre-checks 13.4 Limited Warranty Appendix 14.1 Adjusting the PTO shaft to the tractor 14.2 Unit conversion tables...
  • Page 7 McHale F5500 Baler This page is intentionally left blank.

  • Page 8: Introduction

    McHale F5500 Baler Introduction The McHale F5500 Baler has been developed based on years of extensive research and development in the field of round balers. Given proper care and attention, the machine will provide years of reliable and dependable performance.

  • Page 9: Product Information

    The relevant health and safety requirements, that may be in force in the  country of use, will be strictly followed. No other equipment or accessories, other than released by McHale, are  installed in the machine. The use of any other equipment or accessory is entirely at the owner/operator’s risk.

  • Page 10: Front View

    McHale F5500 Baler 2.2 Front view Machine function Grease pump Pick-up wheels Net unit Density clock & knife pressure clock Rotor duplex chain Chopper unit Pick-up reel...

  • Page 11: Rear View

    McHale F5500 Baler 2.3 Rear view Machine function Oil reservoir tank Drive side Chamber door (tailgate) Bale chamber Drive chain Bale kicker...

  • Page 12: General Specifications

    McHale F5500 Baler 2.4 General specifications Units are given in both metric and UK imperial values, with the latter shown in brackets. *May not be available in all countries, check with your McHale dealer for availability in your country. Transport length 4.53 m (178”)

  • Page 13: Machine Specifications

    McHale F5500 Baler 2.6 Machine specifications Bale chamber diameter 1.25 m (49”) Bale chamber width 1.23 m (48”) Pick-up width 2.10 m (83”) Net width Max. 1.26 m (49.5”) Net wrap Max. roll weight 40 kg (See warning below) CAUTION: Heavy net rolls should be handled by two people Pay attention to the heavy weight of the net roll.

  • Page 14: General Safety

    & instructions explained’). The spare part codes for each decal are also listed, which are available from your McHale dealer. If safety decals are damaged or missing due to wear and tear or component replacement, ensure that they are replaced. As with all machinery, learn all operations and use controls by reading this manual thoroughly.

  • Page 15: Store All Items Carefully

    McHale F5500 Baler 3.3 Store all items carefully Store all attachments in a secure and safe manner so as to prevent items from falling. Keep storage areas clear of bystanders and children. 3.4 Personal protective equipment (PPE) The following PPE should be worn, at all times, when carrying out...

  • Page 16: Trained Operator Criteria

    McHale F5500 Baler 3.7 Trained operator criteria Age related requirements General requirements The operator needs to be fully trained The operator must be in full  18 + in the use of this machine and have a control of his/her senses and valid tractor driver’s licence.

  • Page 17: General Safety Warnings

    Read and understand this operator manual before using the machine. If any of the instructions appear unclear do not hesitate to contact your McHale dealer. Only competent persons who have read and fully understood this manual are qualified to operate this machine.
  • Page 18 McHale F5500 Baler Danger Zone The ‘Danger Zone’ is the area around the front of the tractor, between the  tractor and baler and a minimum of 5 m at the back of the machine to allow for safe bale discharge.
  • Page 19 Maintenance and repair work on the machine should always be carried out in  accordance with this manual. Maintenance and repair work exceeding the content of this manual should  only be carried out by qualified persons or your McHale dealer.
  • Page 20 Never use a machine where a malfunction exists! Contact your McHale dealer to achieve a solution. Always think ‘Safety First’! Avoid heating near pressurised fluid lines, as pressurised lines can be ...
  • Page 21 McHale F5500 Baler Check bearings for early warning signs of wear or damage and replace if  necessary. Always be on alert for bearings that are squeaky or noisy despite being well lubricated and bearing housings that are running very hot especially with a burning smell or paint discolouration.
  • Page 22 McHale F5500 Baler Danger of lightning strike If there is a risk of lightning in the area, stop all work.  If there is a risk of lightning when travelling, find a safe place to pull over and  stop the tractor.

  • Page 23: Specific Safety Warnings

    Do not work on hydraulic systems unless you are qualified to do so. This work  should only be carried out by qualified persons or your McHale dealer. 4.3 Noise level The European directive 2003/10/EC directs employers and employees to ...

  • Page 24: Fire Precautions

    McHale F5500 Baler In normal conditions, whilst driving the machine, the noise level to the driver’s  ear does not exceed 70 dB (A) with the rear screen of the tractor cabin open. The common noise level of the machine and the tractor is primarily influenced by the tractor noise (radio is an additional noise source).

  • Page 25: Safety Instruction Decal Locations

    McHale F5500 Baler Caution should always be taken when feeding in the net roll or making any  adjustments to the netter configuration as the netter knife is extremely sharp! Always use protective gloves when working near sharp knives or edges.

  • Page 26: Safety Warnings & Instructions Explained

    Therefore it has to be ensured that all safety warnings and instructions are understood and followed. If any of the decals are damaged or missing, they are available from your McHale dealer. The relevant part numbers are shown in brackets. The decals featured on the machine are displayed with their meanings below:...
  • Page 27 McHale F5500 Baler Do not stand on the platform or elsewhere on the machine when the machine is moving or working (CST00107) Keep clear of pick-up area as long as the engine is running and the PTO shaft is connected to the tractor...
  • Page 28 McHale F5500 Baler Knife release lever: horizontal position-locked vertical position-unlocked (CST00118) Keep hands out of the crush area between the roller and chassis rail (CST00120) Maximum hydraulic pressure and maximum PTO speed. This machine must not be connected to hydraulic systems with pressure higher than 210 bar.
  • Page 29 McHale F5500 Baler Do not stand in the articulation area while the tractor engine is running. (CST00141) Never perform any adjustments or reach into the netter unless the PTO has been disengaged and the tractor has been shut down and the key has been removed.
  • Page 30 McHale F5500 Baler Disconnect the power supply to the control box and turn off the tractor before commencing work on the electrical system or welding on the machine. (CST00145) Do not stand in the swashing area of the tailgate while the tractor is running.
  • Page 31 McHale F5500 Baler The PTO wide angle joint must never exceed 80 degrees, both when stationary or during operation Permanent damage may result otherwise (CST00658) Wheel direction (CST00711) Diagram of net path through feeding rollers (CST00713) Knife selection tap Only applicable to machines with selectable...
  • Page 32 McHale F5500 Baler Always lock the chamber door in place before working on the open bale chamber (CST00769) Always use correct specification chain oil for automatic chain lubrication (CST00776) Tie down points (CST00901) Jacking points (CST00923) Maximum PTO speed (CST00962) - 540 rpm PTO/gearbox speed...

  • Page 33: Description Of The Serial Number Plate

    McHale F5500 Baler 4.8 Description of the serial number plate The following is a description of the serial plate content: Product description Model name/number of the machine Year of manufacture of the machine Model year of the machine Serial number of the machine...

  • Page 34: Jacking Guidelines

    McHale F5500 Baler RHS lift hook LHS lift hook 4.10 Jacking guidelines Jacking points are indicated on the machine with decals. Ensure the machine is on flat solid ground and attached to a tractor. Apply the tractor hand brake, switch off the tractor and remove the key, disconnect the hydraulics and PTO.

  • Page 35: Tractor Requirements & Preparation

    On flat ground McHale recommends a tractor size of approximately 67 kW. On hilly ground or difficult conditions, an additional 10 to 15 kW is advisable.

  • Page 36: Attaching To Drawbar

    Detach in reverse order of attachment. CAUTION: Tractor drawbar and coupling device must be compatible Check that the tractor drawbar is compatible with the coupling device on the machine. If in doubt, consult your McHale dealer.

  • Page 37: Preventing Unauthorised Use

    McHale F5500 Baler 5.4 Preventing unauthorised use To prevent unauthorised use, McHale recommend using the padlock and the locking device provided. Both items are stored in the tool box on the machine and should be fitted to the drawbar coupling when the machine is not in use.

  • Page 38: Attaching Break-Away Brake (If Fitted)

    McHale F5500 Baler 5.5 Attaching break-away brake (if fitted) The machine hand brake (if fitted) must be applied when the machine is detached from the tractor. The hand brake handle has a rope fitted to a calibrated ring which must have the other end securely fixed to the tractor, each time the machine is attached to the tractor.

  • Page 39: Making Connections To The Tractor

    McHale F5500 Baler 540 rpm gearbox setting 1,000 rpm gearbox setting 5.7 Making connections to the tractor WARNING: Turn off tractor before connecting hydraulic hosing When connecting hydraulic hosing to the tractor, ensure that the tractor engine is turned off and that the ignition key is removed. Ensure that all hydraulic connections are correctly tightened.

  • Page 40: Connecting The Control Box

    McHale F5500 Baler 5.8 Connecting the control box The electronic control box must be located inside the tractor cab in the operator’s field of vision and within easy reach of the red emergency stop button. (See ‘Electronic control system’) Secure the control unit in the tractor cab, using the V-brackets and fasteners provided.

  • Page 41: Machine Requirements & Preparation

    A general rule to follow is to apply the amount of net that will maintain the bale size. The maximum bale size recommended is a 1.27 m diameter bale. McHale recommend the use of a net roll which meets the following specifications: Material: High quality, high density polyethylene ...

  • Page 42: Care Of The Net Wrapping System

    Never use cleaning agents such as benzene, petrol, turpentine oil or similar cleaning solvents to clean rubber feed roll, otherwise damage may occur! McHale recommend using either of the following: A cloth soaked in dish washing liquid  Soapy water ...
  • Page 43 McHale F5500 Baler 2. Lift the net roll brake bar upwards and roll the roll of net into the net box. 3. With the roll of net positioned in the net box, lower the brake bar down onto the roll of net.

  • Page 44: Net Layer Adjustment Setting

    McHale F5500 Baler After the roll is replaced, the tractor and electronic control box is powered back up and the PTO is engaged. Once the net button is pushed, the net feeds into the chamber, netting the bale and the knife trips. The operator then checks that netting is complete and work can continue as normal.
  • Page 45 McHale F5500 Baler Knife frame bar Less Net   More Net Knife tripped Knife not tripped (re-set) Net adjustment The following table shows the amount of net applied for each specific notch. Notch (#) Layers of Net* (#) Length of Net* (m) 2.25...

  • Page 46: Chopper Unit Knife Removal & Installation

    McHale F5500 Baler NOTE: Figures in the table are approximate Figures are calculated assuming a bale circumference of 3.77 m (diameter of 1.2 m). The values of the layers and length of net will be approximate due to differing bale diameters, varying crop conditions, etc.
  • Page 47 McHale F5500 Baler Locked ‘closed’ position Unlocked ‘open’ position 6. Removal of knives/blanks is the reverse of the following installation procedure. Pay particular attention to all decal warnings and safety advice. Knife Knife blank 7. Rotating the knife lock/unlock lever (B) exposes ‘flats’ on the lock shaft, which allows either knives or knife blanks to be added or removed.
  • Page 48 McHale F5500 Baler 5 - 10 mm 9. Now push the knife forwards, continuing to maintain this 5 - 10 mm clearance under the front of the slot. The keyhole slot on the front end of the knife should now guide itself over the ‘flats’ of the lock shaft (H).
  • Page 49 McHale F5500 Baler 13. Installation is simpler, in that they only engage with the lock shaft in front and not with the actuator arm. The knife blank is dropped into a slot, towards the front, again maintaining the 5 - 10 mm gap (G), push forward (P), allowing the keyhole slot to engage with the lock shaft.

  • Page 50: Automatic Lubrication System

    McHale F5500 Baler 6.6.1 Knives/blanks storage If knives from the chopper unit are being removed they can be stored on the drive side of the machine (on the chopper unit) in the knife storage area and replaced using blanks. Knives/blanks are secured in the storage area by tightening the clamp lever shown.
  • Page 51 McHale F5500 Baler markings at all times. McHale recommend the use of only top quality chain oil and grease, this will prolong the life of the machine components. A grease cartridge is required after every 300 bales approximately. On the control box, an alarm is provided to remind the operator to change the grease cartridge and top up the lubrication oil after a preset number of cycles.
  • Page 52 McHale F5500 Baler Replacing refill grease cartridge and releasing airlock: McHale recommend using a multipurpose, extra high performance grease such as Mobilgrease XHP 222 or equivalent NLGI number 2 grade grease. This will prolong the life of the machine components.
  • Page 53 McHale F5500 Baler 7. Clean off this bead of grease so dust and debris does not stick to it. This dirty grease could get into the grease pump at the next cartridge change, causing a blockage of the grease system.

  • Page 54: Gearbox Oil

    McHale F5500 Baler Oil pump adjustment Once adjustment is complete, screw the black plastic cover back on top of the pump unit. Oil delivery should continue to be monitored and readjusted, if necessary, until desired results are achieved. 6.8 Gearbox oil The gearbox is located to the rear of the PTO shaft.
  • Page 55 McHale F5500 Baler NOTE: Oil must be drained & filled after the first 5 hours of use After the first 5 hours of use, the gearbox oil must be completely drained and filled with SAE 80W/90 grade oil. ENVIRONMENT: Safe disposal of oil...

  • Page 56: Tyre Inflation Pressures

    McHale F5500 Baler Gearbox 1,000 rpm 1. Remove the filler plug (A) using a 24 mm spanner, followed by drain plug (B) using a 12 mm Allen key. Drain the oil into a suitable container. This is best carried out while the oil is still warm, i.e.

  • Page 57: Wheel Chocks

    McHale F5500 Baler 6.10 Wheel chocks Wheel chocks are provided to secure the machine wheels anytime the machine is to be detached from the tractor, or if the machine is to be stored or parked up. They are located on both the left and right of the back panels, on the rear of the machine.

  • Page 58: Drawbar & Pto Shaft Stand Usage

    McHale F5500 Baler 6.11 Drawbar & PTO shaft stand usage There are three types of drawbar stands available on the machine, depending on the country of use, one will come as standard: This is a static swing-down stand (fixed) and is suitable for use on the...
  • Page 59 McHale F5500 Baler PTO shaft stand (type A & B) Transport (working) position Storage position Type B - The following applies to swing down screw stand (low hitch): Similar to type A, except stand pin (3) is in the upper slot, in the transport ...
  • Page 60 McHale F5500 Baler Type C - fixed screw down stand (high hitch)  The PTO chain support (5) holds the PTO shaft when disconnected from  tractor, in the storage position. Depending on the height of the windrow being baled, the stand may need to ...

  • Page 61: Drawbar Adjustment

    McHale F5500 Baler 6.12 Drawbar adjustment There are two types of drawbar hitch options (high/low drawbar) available on the machine. Depending on the country of use, one will come as standard. WARNING: Adjustment to be completed by qualified persons only...
  • Page 62 McHale F5500 Baler Tractors typically are either low hitch or high hitch and the drawbar on the machine should be set up accordingly. When changing from a low to a high drawbar set-up, the drawbar is inverted and the hitch eye is adjusted horizontally, in the orientation shown.

  • Page 63: Pto Shaft Adjustment & Maintenance

    McHale F5500 Baler Position Low drawbar setting High drawbar setting 1030 1070 The closest value of H can be selected from table above to determine the most suitable bolt hole position for B, depending on whether low or high drawbar set-up. Once adjusted, ensure safety bolt is re-installed and all bolts tightened securely.
  • Page 64 McHale F5500 Baler First, fit the PTO shaft to the machine and then check if the PTO can be connected to the tractor stub. If not, then the PTO shaft is too long and must be altered. Typically the shortest distance on a trailed machine is when the tractor is turned at the maximum angle from the machine.
  • Page 65 McHale F5500 Baler The recommended quantities of grease in grams for each grease point are shown below. Grease at 60 hour intervals Grease at 8 hour intervals NOTE: Grease point intervals The lower 3 PTO shaft grease points are to be greased at 8 hour intervals.
  • Page 66 McHale F5500 Baler This page is intentionally left blank.

  • Page 67: Electronic Control System

    McHale F5500 Baler Electronic control system (Control Unit Software Version GWS300-000 rev10 onwards) The control unit is the main interface between the operator and the machine. The most vital information for the operator is displayed along the right side of the screen.

  • Page 68: Control Box Functions

    McHale F5500 Baler 7.1 Control box functions Function Manual Automatic Power Button, then select Manual/Auto Mode This button must be pressed and held for 3 seconds to power off. Net feed: Net feed: Press to start net feeding. Press to start net feeding, before the bale is full.

  • Page 69: Control Box Features

    McHale F5500 Baler 7.2 Control box features 7.2.1 Working display When the control box is first switched on it displays ‘McHale F5500’ followed by the software version number. After a short delay, the working display appears. The working display features an image of the machine, which is surrounded by general working information.
  • Page 70 McHale F5500 Baler 7.2.4 Bale counters The bale sub total is displayed on the right side of the screen. The control box contains ten different bale counters (A - J) and a day counter which can be reset. It also contains a grand total counter which cannot be reset.
  • Page 71 McHale F5500 Baler WARNING: Do not bale if the knife pressure is too high Do not bale if the knife pressure is too high as machine damage will occur. The warning below will always be shown when the knife pressure is above working pressure.
  • Page 72 McHale F5500 Baler 7.2.8 Net wrap system In an Auto cycle, the control box emits a series of beeps when the bale chamber is full. An image of a bale will appear on the screen. When the bale has reached the predetermined density, this alerts the operator that netting is about to start.
  • Page 73 McHale F5500 Baler 7.2.9 Lube counter Every 300 bales, the lube alarm activates to remind the operator to replace the grease cartridge and check the chain oil level. An ‘oil can’ symbol will appear on the top left of the screen, and a beep will sound every 3 seconds.
  • Page 74 McHale F5500 Baler 7.2.11 Additive To enable/disable the additive applicator, press the right menu arrow (Button 8) to access the 2nd main screen and then press button 1. The additive icon is shown above the baler when enabled. Press button 1 again to disable.

  • Page 75: Menu Structure

    McHale F5500 Baler 7.3 Menu structure Hold the down arrow (Button 6) for 1 second to access the Control unit menu. 7.3.1 Control unit menu Below is a navigation map for the menu layout which has seven settings, over two main screens.
  • Page 76 McHale F5500 Baler 1. Lube count This shows the remaining bale count before the lube alarm will activate again. The counter is usually reset from the main screen after every 300 bales are made. (See ‘Lube counter’) If necessary, the counter can be reset before the alarm has activated from within this menu by pressing ‘RESET’...
  • Page 77 This is used to set the time on the clock which is always displayed on the top left of the screen. A date setting is also available. 7. Technician menu Reserved for McHale technicians. This menu is password protected as settings in it are critical to correct machine operation.

  • Page 78: Warning Messages

    McHale F5500 Baler 7.4 Warning messages Net knife is tripped This warning means that the net knife is already in the tripped position and net cannot be fed. The net knife needs to be manually reset and netting can be re-started by pushing Button 2.
  • Page 79 McHale F5500 Baler Knife pressure too high This tells the operator that the hydraulic pressure holding up the chopping knives is too high for baling which could lead to knife or machine damage. This warning will be seen if manually raising the knives with max. pressure.
  • Page 81 Control unit menu Below is a navigation map for the menu layout which has seven settings, over two main screens. All settings, except for 3 & 4, have a sub screen. Hold the down arrow for 1 second to enter the menu.

  • Page 82: Road Traffic Safety & Operation

    McHale F5500 Baler Road traffic safety & operation 8.1 Before travelling on any public roadway WARNING: Complete a full inspection before travelling on the road Ensure that a full inspection is completed every time before attempting to go on to a public roadway, always think and practice safety!
  • Page 83 McHale F5500 Baler activation by disconnecting the hydraulic feed line. Support all loose lines in a safe manner. Check that the area around the wheels and especially the brake hubs are  clear of build-up of crop material. The pick-up guide wheels must be removed and secured in the road transport ...

  • Page 84: Field Operation & Machine Adjustments

    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 (See ‘Chain...

  • Page 85: Pick-Up Reel Height Adjustment

    McHale F5500 Baler In the case of wider swaths, i.e. >1.5 m; this size of windrow should be avoided, as in this case a greater amount of material will continue to be fed to the outside of the baler. As a result, a greater amount of material will be fed to the outer edges of the bale than to the centre.

  • Page 86: Crop Guard Adjustment

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.4 Crop guard adjustment The function of the crop guard plate is to hold down the baling material in order to achieve an even flow. The height of the crop guard can be adjusted to suit the material type and volume, by means of adjusting the chain length.

  • Page 87: Unblocking System

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.6 Unblocking system The machine is equipped with an unblocking system. In the case of a blockage in the feeding channel, the PTO overload clutch will disengage and a loud clicking noise will be heard. Once this sound is heard, immediately turn off the tractor PTO. Push and hold the drop floor diverter on the control box, while using the tractor pick-up spool lever in the down direction, to lower the channel floor.

  • Page 88: Chopping System

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.7 Chopping system The machine is equipped with a 15 knife chopping system for fine cutting. If a coarser chop is required, some of the knives can be removed (See ‘Chopper unit knife removal & installation’). The Knife Diverter Button on the control box must be held down, whilst using the pick-up spool to raise (activate) or to lower (deactivate) the knives.

  • Page 89: Knife Pressure Monitoring

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.9 Knife pressure monitoring The knife pressure on the McHale F5500 is monitored from the control box. Knife pressure monitoring (bar) Knife pressure display The knife pressure will increase to and stop at the normal working pressure of 50 - 60 bar which is displayed on the screen.

  • Page 90: Net Tension Adjustment

    The machines are pre-set at 2% stretch. McHale recommend using a lower percentage stretch when baling dry matter material like hay and straw and a higher percentage stretch for material like grass.
  • Page 91 McHale F5500 Baler 2. The variable pulley is in two halves, with one side threaded into the other. The outer pulley half is secured in place using an M10 grub screw fastened onto the flat sides of the inner pulley.

  • Page 92: Net Brake Adjustment

    McHale F5500 Baler CAUTION: Take care when removing and fitting belts Always exercise care when removing and fitting belts onto pulley wheels. Use extreme caution when dealing with spring-loaded tensioners and hooks. NOTE: Frequency of belt replacement The variable pulley V-belt needs to be replaced every year or after 10,000 bales.

  • Page 93: Bale Density Gauge

    The adjustment range to operate in is within the green zone. When baling drier materials such as straw or hay McHale recommend adjusting the door sensor handle to the hay-straw setting. Chamber pre-charge pressure is set at the door charge...

  • Page 94: Bale Size Adjustment

    (handle up) 9.14 Bale size adjustment McHale recommend that the bale size should be between 1.25 m and 1.29 m. The bale size may vary depending on density setting, crop volume intake, chop length, stopping distance, netter settings, amount of net applied and bale size sensor adjustment.

  • Page 95: Chamber Door Lock

    McHale F5500 Baler CAUTION: Bale size should never exceed 1.29 m Bales with a bale size in excess of 1.29 m in diameter may result in damage to the net on the bale. Should the bale size be greater than 1.29 m, then the bale size sensor will need to be adjusted away from the sensor handle.

  • Page 96: Brake Overview (If Fitted)

    McHale F5500 Baler WARNING: The operator must be aware of all related warnings, safety decals and dangers The operator must be aware of all related warnings, safety decals and dangers before attempting to carry out any work or maintenance from within the baling chamber.
  • Page 97 McHale F5500 Baler The red hose is the emergency line, which if disconnected applies the brakes  on the machine. Connection with the tractor To connect, attach the yellow hose coupling first, followed by the red hose. To disconnect, remove the red hose coupling first, followed by the yellow hose.
  • Page 98 The brakes squeal or grate heavily when activating the foot brake.  WARNING: Must be qualified to work on the brake drums This work should only be carried out by qualified persons or your McHale dealer, who are familiar with braking systems. 9.16.3 Hydraulic brakes (optional) The machine is equipped with hydraulic drum brakes, using single-line activation.
  • Page 99 McHale F5500 Baler 9.16.4 Brake adjustment Machines fitted with brakes, either air or hydraulic, must be initially checked after the first 50 hours of use and every 100 hours or yearly thereafter (whichever comes first). WARNING: Ensure safety before working on brake adjustment Before attempting to carry out brake adjustment, ensure that the tractor engine has been switched off and the key removed.
  • Page 100 McHale F5500 Baler 3. Ensure the spring-loaded locking collar is returned, to the locked position, to prevent any further movement of the adjuster screw. Repeat the procedure for both sides of the machine and ensure brakes are being applied evenly. Both sides should be adjusted as closely as possible to the exact same value.

  • Page 101: Adjusting Pick-Up Float Springs

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.16.5 Brake maintenance Drain condensation water from the air reservoir (air brake only) Actuate the manual drain valve as necessary by pulling the ring, each day before operating for a few seconds or until the water droplets disappear.
  • Page 102 McHale F5500 Baler The method of adjustment can be either Type A or Type B, which are shown below. Type A: Loosen the collar by slacking off the bolts, then tap the collar in the direction (R) if increased float is required, or in direction (F) if less float is required.

  • Page 103: Chain Adjustments

    McHale F5500 Baler 9.18 Chain adjustments It is important for the efficient operation of the machine that all drive chains are kept correctly tensioned. The following is a general guide to chain adjustment. The sag is measured at the midpoint of the chain between the sprockets. Always ensure one side of the chain is tight so that the correct reading is obtained.
  • Page 104 McHale F5500 Baler 9.18.2 Pick-up reel tine chain adjustment To adjust the tine reel chain, the use of a 17 mm spanner and socket is required. Loosen (A) and turn tine sprocket (D) anti-clockwise, as shown below. Apply upward pressure (along slot B) to nylon chain slide (C), while continuing to hold sprocket (D) in position.
  • Page 105 McHale F5500 Baler 9.18.4 Rotor duplex chain adjustment To adjust the duplex chain the following tools are required; two 24 mm spanners. Hold the lower nut and loosen the upper nut. To tighten - screw down the lower nut in the direction (T).

  • Page 106: Machine Maintenance

    Replace any electrical or hydraulic devices immediately, at the first sign of malfunction or failure, as these components affect the functionality, sequencing and thus safety of operation. Never use a machine where a malfunction exists! Contact your McHale dealer to achieve a solution. Always think 'Safety First'! WARNING: Wear proper safety equipment &...
  • Page 107 Carefully clean all machine sections, inside and out. Dirt and foreign objects are likely to draw moisture and cause rusting of steel components. McHale recommend that the machine be blown down with an air line, as opposed to a pressure washer, due to the dangers involved with pressure washing and to protect the overall paint work on the machine.
  • Page 108 McHale F5500 Baler Any damaged paintwork should be touched up. Any maintenance or repairs should be carried out at this stage. The electronic control box is not waterproof, so it must always be stored in a dry environment. All exposed hydraulic cylinder rods should be greased.

  • Page 109: Tightening Torque Values

    McHale F5500 Baler 10.2 Tightening torque values It is important that the correct torques for fasteners are adhered to. Below are tables of recommended torques for these. These are to be used unless torques are otherwise specified. These values are for general use only. Check tightness of all fasteners periodically.

  • Page 110: Storage

    Carefully clean all machine sections, inside and out. Dirt and foreign objects  are likely to draw moisture and cause rusting of steel components. McHale recommend that the machine be blown down with an air line, as opposed to a pressure washer, due to the dangers involved with pressure washing and to protect the overall paint work on the machine.

  • Page 111: Start Of Season

    McHale F5500 Baler 11.2 Start of season Fully review this operators instruction manual.  Check and fill gearbox oil level, if necessary. (See ‘Gearbox oil’)  Lubricate all pivot points.  Tighten all bolts, nuts and setscrews. (See ‘Tightening torque values’) ...

  • Page 112: Troubleshooting

    McHale F5500 Baler Troubleshooting 12.1 Troubleshooting overview This section has been compiled by McHale service personnel in conjunction with McHale importers and dealers. It outlines some common problems which can occur and acts as a quick reference section or check list to resolve the problem. It is important to note that it outlines the common problems and to this effect it is not exhaustive.
  • Page 113 McHale F5500 Baler 12.1.3 PTO slip clutch going off easily Symptom Reason Solution PTO slip clutch going off Rotor chain loose Tighten the rotor chain easily and check, as specified PTO slip clutch going off Poor swath preparation Prepare the swath in line...
  • Page 114 McHale F5500 Baler 12.1.7 Chamber losing pressure Symptom Reason Solution Chamber losing pressure Oil leak Find leak and resolve Chamber losing pressure Relief valve loose / Contact McHale dealer restriction in relief 12.1.8 Issues with bale rotation/intake Symptom Reason Solution Baler won’t take crop in...
  • Page 115 McHale F5500 Baler 12.1.10 Net not feeding during an automatic cycle Symptom Reason Solution Net not feeding during an Control box is in manual Switch the control box to automatic cycle mode Auto mode Net not feeding during an Net knife has tripped...
  • Page 116 McHale F5500 Baler 12.1.13 Chopper knives won’t move (activate/disengage) - pick-up moves Symptom Reason Solution Knives won’t move Faulty hydraulic valve Contact McHale dealer (activate/disengage) Knives won’t move Low power supply to the Check power source (activate/disengage) control box 12.1.14 Net not cut correctly...

  • Page 117: Certification & Warranty

    The PDI (pre-delivery inspection) form that is filled out on the commissioning of every new machine, should also be used during the transfer of ownership of a McHale machine. The same check list must be completed and any areas requiring attention addressed before the re-sale of the machine should occur.
  • Page 118 McHale F5500 Baler Declaration of Conformity DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY We hereby certify that the machinery stipulated below complies with all the relevant provisions of the EC Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and the national laws and regulations adopting this directive. Modifications to the machine, without prior approval from the undersigned, will render this declaration null and void.
  • Page 119 REFER TO THE OPERATOR INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS! This machine must be registered on www.mchale.net by the dealer in order to qualify for warranty! This machine must be registered on www.mchale.net by the dealer in order to qualify for warranty! This machine must be registered on www.mchale.net by the dealer in order to qualify for warranty!
  • Page 120 McHale warranty system. These conditions are subject to the following exceptions: Parts of the machine which are not of McHale manufacture, such as tyres, PTO  shafts, slip clutches, hydraulic cylinders, etc. are not covered by this Limited Warranty, but are subject to the warranty of the original manufacturer.
  • Page 121 A printed version of the PDI form has been signed and dated by the original retail  purchaser. This copy is to be stored by the dealer and made available to McHale when requested. The warranty claim is submitted using the McHale online claims system.

  • Page 122: Appendix

    Appendix 14.1 Adjusting the PTO shaft to the tractor 10 - 13 A - H 10 - 13 A - H...

  • Page 123: Unit Conversion Tables

    14.2 Unit conversion tables Length inch (in) foot (ft) yard (yd) mile (mi) 0.001 0.000001 0.03937 0.003281 0.001094 6.21e-07 0.01 0.00001 0.393701 0.032808 0.010936 0.000006 1000 0.001 39.37008 3.28084 1.093613 0.000621 1000000 100000 1000 39370.08 3280.84 1093.613 0.621371 25.4 2.54 0.0254 0.000025 0.083333...
  • Page 124 Flow rate l/sec l/min /min gal/min US brl/day 2.119093 127.1197 15.85037 543.4783 0.016666 0.06 0.035317 2.118577 0.264162 9.057609 0.277778 16.6667 0.588637 35.31102 4.40288 150.9661 0.4719 28.31513 1.69884 7.479791 256.4674 0.007867 0.472015 0.02832 0.01667 0.124689 4.275326 0.06309 3.785551 0.227124 0.133694 8.019983 34.28804 0.00184 0.110404...

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