I am in the minority, but.... My 2 cents worth anyway..... .
I think any well designed machine, properly maintained and adjusted will work just fine for you.
First the mower. I prefer the old sickle mowers, not only that, mowers with a pitman stick to boot!
Sickle mowers are much higher maintainance, but if you only have a few acres that will not be too much of an issue. A good sickle mower will knock down your hay just fine, initial cost is much less. Just make sure it is properly adjusted and the ledger plates and knife is sharp. I like pitman style mowers as they are a safeguard. They break instead of the mower. I make up 10 at a time for $2.75 per pitman stick. I can go 2-3 years on 10 of them.I have used haybines as well as the disc mowers, just personal preference, I will stay with my old mowers.
As far as the rake is concerned, if you are putting up bales, I would use a bar rake. Again, much higher maintainance, but you will get better windrows, which will mean much easier baling. Wheel rakes are ok, I just think they don't tie the hay together as well as a bar rake. If you end up with a bar rake, make sure you grease it, keep it properly adjusted, especially the height and don't run it at excessive speeds and you won't have too much trouble. Make sure you check the gear box oil level daily is a good plan. Too many people neglect this. My main advice is to be comfortable with your choices and get to know your machinery. Afterall, at harvest time, your impliments are your best friends!
|
