Small Square Baler

[Teebogr81]

I'm beginning to look for a USED small square baler for 8 acres of alfalfa next summer. I don't mind an older baler or a little work to get it into running order. Anyone have any input on what to stay away from or look out for? I'd prefer twine tie.

Thanks....

 

[Dave H (MI)]

Type of tractor might influence your choice but my personal favorite is the JD 24T or 224T. Getting older but parts are available and they are easy to fix. The NH of the same vintage would do you fine also.

 

[Teebogr81]

I have good running M&M UB to pull the baler with. Excuse my lack of knowlege, but what vintage woul the JD24T and 224 T be?

Thanks,

 

[Chris Parrish]

Mid 60's john deere baler is what those would be and I believe they are good balers.

 

[Dave H (MI)]

I am not exactly positive on that but I think mid 60's for the 14T and a little later for the 24T and 224T. Regardless, they are good machines and there are many around in good shape. We have two 224T balers that we use a lot. They are good low volume machines and like a consistent windrow to perform best. They are old enough that the knotter assembly is repairable. One bolt and the whole assembly flips up to work on. Manual is a must and is available at JD. Good economical machine for what you want to do. Expect to pay $200 for a parts machine that could be repaired up to as much as $900 for a really nice one with all its paint and field ready. Somewhere in between is the perfect baler for you.

 

[Jack a]

Finest in hay the 273 NH. Great older baler.

 

[Luke S]

I've got an old 24T that an equipment dealer friend who I had done a favor for gave me as he had bought out a whole estate of an old farmer who had passed on. At the time I didn't know much about square balers(still don't), but we spent $300 fixin it up a little and she's probably baled about 4,000 bales since and I don't think she's missed more than 5 bales the whole time. Pretty good investment I think, I'd buy another one in a heart beat.