MF 12 or 124 baler

Jeff mcIntosh · Sep 30, 2013

I have a chance to purchase either a model 12 or 124 baler both are priced the same with the 12 being in better condition also having been gone thru by a MF dealer and setting on his lot lot. The 12 is also closer to home.
The 124 is a private sale and is in fair condition, missing a few pickup teeth, the chute is missing being replaced with one off an Case baler, just looking not well kept even though it has been kept in side.
For the same money which would you considered purchasing if looking for a small square baler?
I realize the 124 is a newer upgraded version of the 12.

Thanks

LorenMN · Sep 30, 2013

I have both, a #12 that my dad had bought new, and a #124 that I bought two years ago. The 124 needed some work when I bought it, had to put needles in it and time it, but it is easy to work on with the manual. I use the 124 for baling into baskets, and the #12 for dropping bales onto the ground or stacking direct onto hayrack. My 124 didn't have a loading chute either, but I don't need it for baling into baskets.

The 124 is higher capacity, and will take a bigger windrow without breaking shear pins as easily as the 12. Knotters are simpler too. The 12 seems to make a better bale in lighter hay conditions, as bales from the 124 get spongy with fine hay.

If the #12 is in better condition and you have dealer support, I'd probably go with that one. Look at the condition of the roller cam plate on the outer end of the pickup. That will give you grief if it's wore out. If you can get a good deal on the 124, then buy them both. Then if you have a breakdown, you can switch balers and keep going before it rains.

Jeff mcIntosh · Sep 30, 2013

Thanks for the reply. I plan on calling to confirm the deal on the model 12 this afternoon. My family has dealt with this dealer for years and have always had good service.

495man · Sep 30, 2013

Sounds like the 12 is the best bet.

DavidinGa · Sep 30, 2013

I'd go with the 12 if it's in better shape. I own 2 124 Massey's and love them, BUT parts for the knotter system are obsolete and unavailable for the most part along with various other parts.

DavidinGa · Sep 30, 2013

I'd go with the 12 if it's in better shape. I own 2 124 Massey's and love them, BUT parts for the knotter system are obsolete and unavailable for the most part along with various other parts.

MF 12 or 124 baler

Jeff mcIntosh

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Jeff mcIntosh

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495man

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DavidinGa

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