How to Set Up a 4-Wheel Hay Rake to Spread Hay

Before it is baled, hay must dry thoroughly.

Hay is a nutritious form of fiber for a wide variety of livestock. Whether from grasses or legumes, freshly cut hay needs to dry completely before it is baled. To achieve best results, farmers will often spread the hay out to allow for greater evaporation of moisture. Once cut, hay will begin to lose some of its nutritive properties, reducing its benefit to farm animals. Thus, it is imperative to expedite drying so hay can be fed while retaining most of its protein and minerals. One tool to further this end is the hay rake, a tractor attachment designed to gather hay for baling. Not as well known is the rake's ability to spread hay as well. The 4-wheel hay rake is structured to suit the task of spreading hay nicely.

Instructions

1. Back your tractor into position for attaching the hay rake implement to the three-point hitch. Shut the power down, putting the transmission in park and setting the parking break. Confirm that the three-point controls are in low position and that the power take-off is disengaged.

2. Connect the attachment's three-point linkage to the tractor's three-point hitch. Connect hydraulic hoses, as well. Lock the rake into its fixed position when moving the rake to the hay field. Lock it into the floating position while spreading the hay.

3. Secure your working orientation by turning the main frame to the left. You may have to unlock and relock the sector support to accomplish this. Turn the moving arms to the left as well. Provide the appropriate width between the wheels and a centrifugal effect upon the hay.

4. Start the tractor and raise the rake to its highest position. Move the tractor and attachment toward the field of operation. Err on the side of slowness, especially when negotiating turns. Maintain a low gear when transporting or operating on steep inclines.

5. Survey the area that you will be working in. A drawback of the power rake is the tendency to become ensnared by foreign debris. Remove any observable objects before proceeding with the spreading of hay.

6. Lower the implement using your three-point hitch and hydraulic remote controls. Engage the power take-off and proceed at a slow tempo until you get a feel for how the rake operates in tandem with your tractor.

Tips & Warnings

• Rakes and tractors are designed by various manufacturers, each with their own operational and safety specifications. Read the operator's manual for each piece of equipment carefully.

References

• Penn State: College of Agricultural Sciences; Hay Making Equipment; Dennis Buckmaster and Stan McKee; 2009
• Rhino; Three Point Wheel Rake: Operator's Manual
• Bush Hog; Bush Hog Lift Wheel Rake
• Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs; Cutting, Conditioning and Raking for Faster Hay Drying

Resources

• Penton Business Media, Inc.: Hay & Forage Grower