Conditioning Roll Type; Conditioner Roll Gap; Checking Roll Gap - MacDon R1 Series Operator's Manual

3.16 Conditioning – Roll Type
Rolls condition the crop by crimping and crushing the stem in several places allowing the release of moisture, resulting in
faster drying times. Both steel and polyurethane conditioner rolls are available.

3.16.1 Conditioner Roll Gap

The roll gap is the distance between the two conditioner rolls. The roll gap controls the degree to which the crop is
conditioned as it passes through the rolls. The roll gap is factory-set at approximately 3 mm (1/8 in.) for polyurethane rolls,
and at 6 mm (1/4 in.) for steel rolls.
Polyurethane rolls are better suited for crushing stems with minimal crimping and are recommended for alfalfa, clover,
legumes, and similar crops. Correct crop conditioning is achieved when 90% of the stems show cracking, but no more than
5% of the leaves are damaged. Set the roll gap appropriately to achieve these results.
Steel rolls can be operated over a larger range of roll gap settings, since they are able to intermesh, and are therefore
suited to a wider range of crops, from alfalfa to thicker-stemmed cane-type crops. They are capable of a roll gap of up to
25 mm (1 in.); however, too large a gap may cause crop feeding problems.
Grass-type crops may require a smaller gap for proper feeding and conditioning.

Checking Roll Gap

To prevent equipment damage, check the size of the roll gap when you are using a roll gap setting smaller than that set at
the factory.
IMPORTANT:
Choose the roll gap setting that is suitable for your crop conditions. Refer to
factory and custom roll gap settings.
DANGER
To prevent injury or death from the unexpected start-up of the machine, always stop the engine and remove the key
from the ignition before leaving the operator's seat for any reason.
DANGER
Ensure that all bystanders have cleared the area.
1. Lower the rotary disc pull-type fully.
2. Shut down the engine, and remove the key from the ignition.
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OPERATION
3.16.1 Conditioner Roll Gap, page 106
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Revision A