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Rod F.
08-26-2005 06:28:47
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Re: Round Balers in reply to jacksonburg, 08-25-2005 19:33:51
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If you're looking for flat out speed on big rows, with net wrap, then Claas is the way to go. I have an older 44s (4x4), with single twine, and it's put out over 50 bph average in good crop, on big rows, at an average speed of 6mph. 8 is about the maximum speed. Done 10, but it breaks the pickup chain because of overrun. That said, this is a steel roller baler, fixed chamber, and you will see some leaf loss in alfalfa from the tumbling action of the baler. It's also a soft core, but when properly wrapped, the outer shell is quite tight and rain repellent. They are tight and well shaped, but will never have that rock hard look of a belt baler with the tension cranked up.
As far as quality and durability, I would put the Claas ahead of anything else I've seen. The only problems I'v ehad with this one were pickup bearings, and probably 5 broken rollers now, which were the result of stones. When the rollers get dented, they lose their structural integrity, and metal fatigue will get them in a few years. Considering mine has now made over 27000 bales, I don't feel too bad about what's been replaced on it, considering the hard service it's had. If it never picked up a stone, it would have all it's original rollers.
I used the older NH once, and it worked Ok, but it's not near the capacity, and can't be forced much either. Can't say that I've been impressed with any of the older North American built belt balers either.
Cost on mine was about 18000 Cad, in 1988. I think they are in the 50 range today, new. There's so many options today, that thats a rather loaded question..... . For what it's worth...
Rod
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