Tractor heritage, news and features

JD baler range 2010

The new model line-up includes the 623 and 644 fixed chamber balers, the 842, 852, 862, 854 and 864 variable chamber balers, and the 744 wrapping baler, which is based on the 644 fixed chamber model.

Both 623 models are available in either Silage Special or MultiCrop versions. The MultiCrop option is suitable for those who wish to bale silage and hay with a fixed chamber baler, but also want good performance in straw. The front part of the bale chamber on this hybrid model retains seven robust rollers, but the rear door replaces the other rollers with a conveyor, which provides improved bale rotation in slick materials such as straw. 

Depending on model and specification, there is a choice of three pick-up types for different baling conditions. The HiFlow pick-up is available in widths of 2 and 2.2m, for high baling capacity especially in dry crops. The 2 or 2.2m RotoFlow pick-up features a large diameter, high rpm rotor for increased performance, and a new drop-floor unplugging system; and the 2 or 2.2m MaxiCut pick-up offers either 14 or 25 precutter knives for greater flexibility. 

All the rotor feed models – ie the 623, 644, 854, 864 and 744 – feature the new drop-floor device operated from the cab, which prevents blockages caused by the build-up of crop material. All the balers in the range also feature a new knife design with an improved position for increased quality of cut and productivity. Variable chamber models incorporate an adjustable starter roll position for greater versatility, while all the balers feature increased gearbox capacity and bigger chains, also for higher productivity. 

All four Premium machines can be equipped as standard with the new 2.2m Maxicut 25-knife precutter pick-up. This fine chop pick-up allows four different cutting length adjustments from 40 to 140mm, or the knives can be removed from work for maximum versatility. To extend working time when a fine chop is not required, it is also possible to run with effectively a half set of knives, by simply retracting 12 or 13 knives. 

A new pto driveline with longer greasing intervals for easier servicing is featured on the 644 and 744 models. In addition, the 744 wrapping baler is now ISO-Bus certified and features as standard the new CAN-Bus VTI 1300 display. This Virtual Terminal Implement system replaces the previous combination of a BaleTrak Plus monitor and a GreenStar display unit in the tractor cab. 

This is designed to be easier to operate, with more functionality, and offers an automatic greasing system option that enables the operator to adjust the baler lubrication process from the tractor cab. Bale diameter on the 744 is adjustable between 1.25m, 1.3m and 1.35m for additional versatility in all crop conditions. The baler can also load up to 12 rolls of film for longer working days. 

The 644 fixed chamber baler, on which the 744 wrapping baler is based, is a heavy-duty machine delivering high-density bales for intensive silage operations. The netwrapping system features storage capacity for three net rolls, including CoverEdge, and optional features include a pick-up roller compressor, pivoting gauge wheels and an electronic bale shape indicator. 

The 854 and 864 variable chamber balers produce up to 15 per cent higher density bales of up to 1.55m or 1.8m diameter in all crops, from straw to silage, by utilising larger diameter tensioning cylinders and redesigned tension arms. 

These newly styled models incorporate reinforced composite side panels, and Premium versions are fitted with a range of other features as standard, including the pick-up roller compressor, automatic chain lubrication, a cleaning auger and the CoverEdge netwrapping system. CoverEdge stretches 5 to 10cm over the edge of the bale, to improve silage quality as well as ease of bale handling and storage.