Roll Gap - MacDon R85 Operator's Manual

6.10.2 Roll Gap

Steel rolls "condition" the crop by crimping and
crushing the stem in several places. This allows
moisture release for quicker drying. The degree
to which the crop is conditioned as it passes
through the rolls is controlled by roll gap, which
is factory set at 0.25 inch (6 mm).
Correct conditioning of alfalfa, clover and other
legumes is usually indicated when 90% of the
stems show cracking, but no more than 5% of
the leaves are damaged. Set enough roll gap to
achieve this result.
A larger gap (up to 1 inch (25 mm)) may be
desirable in thick stemmed cane-type crops;
however, too large a gap may cause feeding
problems.
Grass type crops may require less gap for
proper feeding and conditioning.
below the factory setting are used, it is
recommended that the actual gap be visually
checked.
To check roll gap, proceed as follows:
DANGER
Stop engine and remove key from ignition
before leaving operator's seat for any
reason. A child or even a pet could engage
an idling machine.
a. Lower header fully.
b. Stop engine and remove key.
c. Open drive shield at left end of header. See 7.5
DRIVE SHIELD.
Form # 169455
OPERATION
d. At each end of rolls, loosen nuts (A), and slide
cover (B) upwards to expose observation hole.
If settings
e. Check the gap at each end of the rolls to verify
setting and adjust as necessary.
f. Re-position covers (B) and tighten nuts (A).
g. Close drive shield.
27
A B
ROLL GAP
LEFT END
ROLL GAP
RIGHT END
IMPORTANT
Roll timing is critical when the roll gap is
decreased because:
•
Conditioning is affected, and
•
The bars may contact each other.
Refer to Section 6.10.4, Roll Timing.
B
A
Revision A