Stoneman44
Member
I'm not trying to go around the mountain again on this topic. I've read SOOOO much information the past few days, that although my head is spinning, I think I have a pretty good grasp on what it is I need to do. I'd just like some reassurance from the experts.
First, for those of you who don't know, I own a DB/Case 885. A 43 HP, 540/1000 PTO tractor that weighs in the neighborhood of 3800 lbs. I plan to fill the rear tires w/ fluid for another 700 + or - lbs. I have (3) "30" series Case weights on the front that I would guess weigh 50 lbs each. I'm assuming when all is done, the 885 will weigh close to 4600-4700lbs.
I have approximately 15 acres of hay to bale, w/ another 12 acres to be likely added in a couple of years. Since my father-in-law's passing, the fields have not been taken care of and we put up 500-600 square bales a year. This past year, I was injured so the neighbor round baled for us. We ended up w/ (21) 5x6 round bales from only one cutting, as the neighbor felt it wasn't worth his time to do it again. The neighbor's attitude, the fact help is nearly non-existent and the fact I'm not getting any younger, has forced me to re-evaluate my haying process. I'd as soon "do it myself" than to have to ask for help.
My fields are mostly flat to rolling, however, I have a couple of spots where there's probably a 5ft drop in 10ft run.
The hay will be used to feed the horse collection of my wife, (3) daughters & (2) granddaughters.
My first inclination is I want 4x4 bales weighing in the 600lb range. I will handle the bales w/ the 885 and a 3pt scissor/bale spear. This should allow me to stack the bales (2) high in my barns.
I've read over and over again about the various small round balers available. It seems a used Hesston 540 would be my best option for the size bale I want, and for the size wallet I have. I could also go w/ the 530, if need be. Plus, there are (2) AGCO dealers within 15 miles of my house.
With the info I've provided, does it seem to you all I'm on the right track? Anything I've missed? Please feel free to correct or admonish me if I have.
Thank you all for your time. Sorry for the long post.
First, for those of you who don't know, I own a DB/Case 885. A 43 HP, 540/1000 PTO tractor that weighs in the neighborhood of 3800 lbs. I plan to fill the rear tires w/ fluid for another 700 + or - lbs. I have (3) "30" series Case weights on the front that I would guess weigh 50 lbs each. I'm assuming when all is done, the 885 will weigh close to 4600-4700lbs.
I have approximately 15 acres of hay to bale, w/ another 12 acres to be likely added in a couple of years. Since my father-in-law's passing, the fields have not been taken care of and we put up 500-600 square bales a year. This past year, I was injured so the neighbor round baled for us. We ended up w/ (21) 5x6 round bales from only one cutting, as the neighbor felt it wasn't worth his time to do it again. The neighbor's attitude, the fact help is nearly non-existent and the fact I'm not getting any younger, has forced me to re-evaluate my haying process. I'd as soon "do it myself" than to have to ask for help.
My fields are mostly flat to rolling, however, I have a couple of spots where there's probably a 5ft drop in 10ft run.
The hay will be used to feed the horse collection of my wife, (3) daughters & (2) granddaughters.
My first inclination is I want 4x4 bales weighing in the 600lb range. I will handle the bales w/ the 885 and a 3pt scissor/bale spear. This should allow me to stack the bales (2) high in my barns.
I've read over and over again about the various small round balers available. It seems a used Hesston 540 would be my best option for the size bale I want, and for the size wallet I have. I could also go w/ the 530, if need be. Plus, there are (2) AGCO dealers within 15 miles of my house.
With the info I've provided, does it seem to you all I'm on the right track? Anything I've missed? Please feel free to correct or admonish me if I have.
Thank you all for your time. Sorry for the long post.
