JD 327 Baler w/30 Kicker - Secret tricks

I have just purchased a "new to me" baler and I have a couple of questions as I walk through the maintenance and adjustments.

1. Both the packer and main drive chain were VERY loose. I adjusted them as per the service manual. Is this just a lack of maintenance or a old trick?

2. I have purchased a bunch of shear pins for both the fly wheel and the needle pick-up. If properly timed and I am careful not to over-load the chamber, should shear pins really be an issue?

3. Any tricks for adjusting the baler that is not covered in the manual?

4. Any spare parts that I should have on hand?

Thank you in advance.
Mark

If you take it easy and make sure the hay is very dry, the pins should not be an issue at all with sharp knives. (knock on wood, Its been 3 years since I broke one. My own darn fault).

with the kicker on there, Make darn sure the gearbox is tight and oiled. Spent $600 fixing one 2 years ago and finally sold it last year and picked up a MF #10 for $50. More work but moma is willing to help if I go slow and keep the bales at 50#.

It is a good baler, but keep up on the greasing and adjusting or she'll go

I have a well worn MF 10 baler and I bought the JD to speed up the process. Mama won't help me until the wagon reaches the barn (if then).

Thanks for the input.
Mark

Had the neighbor boys help a little too

Moma got tired....