MacDon R85 Rotary Disc 16 Foot Self-Propelled Windrower Headers - Manual (Page 75)

OPERATING THE HEADER
6.2 Roll Gap
Steel "n" bar rolls "condition" the crop by crimping and crushing the stem in several places. This allows moisture
release for quicker drying. The degree to which the crop is conditioned as it passes through the rolls is controlled
by roll gap.
The factory roll gap setting of 1 in. (25.4 mm), measured at the conditioner rolls corresponds to the roll gap setting
of 1-3/16 in. (30 mm), measured at the adjustment bolt.
Correct conditioning of alfalfa, clover, and other legumes is usually indicated when 90% of the stems show cracking,
but no more than 5% of the leaves are damaged. Set enough roll gap to achieve this result.
NOTE: If the conditioner rolls are set too tight (close together), can result in over conditioning the crop
material (excessive leaf damage), reduce machine capacity and use unnecessary horsepower.
Monitor your disc speed. When crop loads increase and disc speed falls by more than 50 rpm,
you should check conditioning action (on plant). Increased crop volume may result in increased
conditioning (leaf loss). Consider increasing roll gap slightly. With optional load sensor on M205,
a warning limit may be set to warn the Operator to slow down prior to a header stall or plug.
A larger gap may be desirable in thick stemmed cane-type crops; however, too large gap may cause feeding
problems.
Grass type crops may require less gap for proper feeding and conditioning.
6.2.1 Checking Roll Gap
DANGER
Stop engine and remove key from ignition before
leaving operator’s seat for any reason. A child or
even a pet could engage an idling machine.
1. Lower header fully.
2. Open the driveshield. See Section 5.4 Driveshields,
page 28 .
3. Remove bolts (A) that secure conditioner shield (B).
4. Remove the shield (B).
Figure 6.2
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Rev. F