Driving On Windrow; Raking And Tedding; Using Chemical Drying Agents - MacDon R85 Operator's Manual

Table 6.4 Recommended Windrow Characteristics
Characteristic
High and fluffy
Consistent formation (not bunching)
Even distribution of material
across windrow
Properly conditioned

6.14.5 Driving On Windrow

Driving on previously cut windrows that will not be raked can lengthen drying time by a full day. If practical, set
forming shields to produce a narrower windrow that the machine can straddle.
NOTE:
Driving on the windrow in high-yield crops may be unavoidable if a full width windrow is necessary.

6.14.6 Raking and Tedding

Raking or tedding speeds up drying; however, the resulting leaf loss may outweigh the benefits. There is little or no
advantage to raking or tedding if the ground beneath the windrow is dry.
Large windrows on damp or wet ground should be turned over when moisture levels reach 40–50%. Hay should not
be raked or tedded at moisture levels below 25%, however, or excessive yield loss will result.

6.14.7 Using Chemical Drying Agents

Hay drying agents work by removing wax from legume surfaces and enabling water to escape and evaporate faster.
However, treated hay lying on wet ground will absorb ground moisture faster.
Before deciding to use a drying agent, carefully compare the relative costs and benefits for your area.
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OPERATING THE HEADER
Enables airflow through windrow which is more important to the curing
process than direct sunlight
Permits an even flow of material into the baler, chopper, etc
Results in even and consistent bales to minimize handling and
stacking problems
Prevents excessive leaf damage
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Advantage
Revision G