Operating The Mower Conditioner; Mower Conditioner Float; Adjusting Float - MacDon R113 Operator's Manual

3.15 Operating the Mower Conditioner

Satisfactory operation of the mower conditioner in all situations requires making proper adjustments to suit various
crops and conditions.
Correct operation reduces crop loss and increases productivity. As well, proper adjustments and timely maintenance
will increase the length of service you receive from your machine.
The variables listed in Table
pages will affect the performance of your mower conditioner. You will quickly become adept at adjusting your machine
to produce the desired results. Although most of the adjustments have been set at the factory, the settings can be
changed to suit your crop conditions.
Table 3.8 Mower Conditioner Performance Variables
Variable

Mower Conditioner Float

Mower Conditioner Angle
Cutting Height
Ground Speed
Conditioning: Roll Type
Conditioning: Finger Type
3.15.1 Mower Conditioner Float
Mower conditioner float springs are normally set so a force of approximately 95–105 lbf (426–471 N) is required to
lift either end of the mower conditioner just off the ground when the hitch is centered.
In rough or stony conditions, it may be preferable to apply less force in order to protect cutting components.
NOTE:
When float setting is light, it may be necessary to reduce ground speed in order to prevent excessive bouncing
and leaving a ragged cut.

Adjusting Float

The mower conditioner's float setting (or lifting force) changes depending on the conditioner type and options. The
setting must be equal at both ends of the mower conditioner. Follow these steps to adjust float:
WARNING
To avoid bodily injury or death from unexpected start-up or fall of raised machine: stop engine, remove
key, and engage lift cylinder lock-out valves before going under machine.
NOTE:
Changes to the mower conditioner's operating position can affect the float settings. After adjusting cutting height
or the cutting angle, check float and adjust as necessary.
NOTE:
If the tractor's drawbar height is greater or less than 16 in. (406 mm), float may be affected. Check the float
and adjust as necessary.
147910
OPERATION
3.8 Mower Conditioner Performance Variables, page 80
3.15.1 Mower Conditioner Float, page 80
3.15.2 Cutterbar Angle, page 82
3.15.3 Cutting Height, page 83
3.15.4 Ground Speed, page 84
3.15.5 Conditioning: Roll Type, page 85
3.15.10 Conditioning: Finger-Type, page 91
Refer to
80
and detailed on the following
Revision A