MacDon FlexDraper FD1 Series Manual page 2

Step 3: Checking Header Float
1. Place torque wrench (A) onto float pivot (B). Note the change in wrench orientation
when checking the float module's left and right sides.
2. Push down on torque wrench (A) to rotate bell crank (C) forward.
3. Continue pushing down on the torque wrench until wrench indicator (D) reaches a
maximum reading and then begins to decrease. Note the maximum reading.
4. Repeat the above steps for the opposite side of the float module.
5. Refer to Table 1.1 as a guide for the float settings.

If the reading is high, the header is heavy.

If the reading is low, the header is light.
Table 1.1: Float Settings
Indicator Reading
Header Model
Cutting on
the Ground
FD125, FD130, and FD135 1 1/2 to 2
FD140 and FD145 2 to 2 1/2
IMPORTANT:
Torque settings in Table 1.1: Float Settings are the recommended header float settings. If
necessary, adjust the float values to suit the crop and field conditions.
Step 4: Setting Header Float
1. Before adjusting float spring adjustment bolts (A), rotate spring locks (B) by loosening
bolts (C).
2. To increase float (decrease header weight), turn both adjustment bolts (A) on the left
side clockwise. Repeat the adjustment at the opposite side.
3. To decrease float (increase header weight), turn left side adjustment bolts (A)
counterclockwise. Repeat the adjustment at the opposite side.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure the torque wrench indicator readings are equal on both sides of the float
module.
NOTE:
For FD140 and FD145 double-knife headers, set the float as described above, then
loosen the right side float spring bolts two full turns.
NOTE:
If the adequate header float cannot be achieved using all available adjustments, an
optional heavy duty spring is available. See your MacDon Dealer or refer to the parts
catalog for ordering information.
Figure 5: Checking Float – Right Side Shown
Cutting off
the Ground
2 to 2 1/2
2 1/2 to 3
Figure 6: Checking Float – Left Side Shown
Figure 7: Float Adjustment Bolts – Left Side Shown
IMPORTANT:
Before proceeding, the header float must be set properly. Refer to Step 4: Setting Header Float.
Step 5: Checking Wing Balance
1. Remove the wing balance linkage cover on the left side of the float module by removing
the securing bolt, and rotating the cover upwards until the inboard end can be lifted off.
2. Place the wing lock spring handles in the unlocked (lower) position.
3. Place torque wrench (A) on bolt (B).
4. Check that pointer (C) is properly positioned as follows:
a. Use torque wrench (A) to move the bell crank until lower edge of bell crank (D) is
parallel to lower edge of top-link (E).
b. Ensure pointer (C) is aligned with top-link (E). If necessary, bend the pointer so it
aligns with bolt hole (J).
5. Move the wing upward with torque wrench (A) until the pointer's lower alignment tab (F)
lines up with the upper edge of top-link (E). Refer to Figure 8. Record the reading on
torque wrench indicator (G).
6. Move the wing downward with torque wrench (A) until the pointer's upper alignment
tab (H) lines up with the lower edge of top-link (E). Refer to Figure 9. Record the reading
on torque wrench indicator (G).
7. Check the wing balance on the opposite side of the header.

If the difference between the readings is 0.5 or less, the wing is balanced and
adjustment is not required.

If the difference between the readings is more than 0.5, the wing is not balanced and
adjustment is required.
Step 6: Adjusting Wing Balance
1. Place torque wrench (A) on bolt (B) on the left side of the header.
2. Loosen clevis bolt (C) and jam nut (J).
3. Recheck the wing balance. Refer to Step 5: Checking Wing Balance.
4. If necessary, make the following adjustments:

If the wing is too heavy, turn clevis adjuster bolt (D) clockwise to move clevis (E)
outboard (F).

If the wing is too light, turn clevis adjuster bolt (D) counterclockwise to move clevis (E)
inboard (G).
5. Adjust clevis (E) position (if necessary) until the difference between the torque wrench
indicator readings is 0.5 or less. Tighten clevis bolt (C) and jam nut (J).
6. Place wing lock spring handles (H) in the locked (upper) position. If the lock doesn't
engage, move the wing up and down with torque wrench (A) until it locks. When locked,
there will be some movement in the linkage. Repeat on the opposite side of the header.
7. If the cutterbar is not straight when the wings are in lock mode, then further adjustments
are required. Contact your MacDon Dealer.
8. Return torque wrench (A) to its storage location on the float module frame.
Figure 8: Wing Balance Linkage,
Wings Set too Light – Left Side Shown, Right Opposite
Figure 9: Wing Balance Linkage,
Wings Set too Heavy – Left Side Shown, Right Opposite
Figure 10: Wing Balance Linkage – Left Side Shown