Hay Mower Blade bar Question

My question concerns the 6 hold down fingers that presses the blades against the point cutter beds. Should they be holding down tight or just a bit loose? Should there be a space between it and the blades? Is there a special method of insuring correct pressure. Should I hard face the contact points with a welding rod to help prevent wear.?

I'll post on the tractor board as well.

Thanks.

With metal on metal, something needs to wear. I would _not_ try to hardface anything, that will only wear things out faster! It's designed right the way it is, hard sickle sections, soft hold-down clamps. They used to be cast iron, soft but long wearing. Now they are pressed steel.

--->Paul