Oncoming rain clouds can ruin a hay producer’s day. That’s why silage is quickly becoming a preferable option for producers everywhere who are tired of waiting on good weather and want high-quality forage for their cattle. According to Michigan State University Extension, silage harvested within five days of the optimal time has a feed quality advantage of $26.46 per ton over dry hay. For some producers, that’s reason enough to make the switch.
Of course, it takes a tough baler to handle the added tonnage of high-moisture hay.
The Vermeer Generation 3 604 Pro baler was specially designed and built from the ground up in Pella, Iowa, to handle the rigors of baling wet, heavy crops — combining strength and smart features while still giving you the versatility of having a baler that can bale dry hay.
Features and benefits
Drive Roller Size | 7.1 in (18 cm) rubber and (1) 6.6 in (16.8 cm) steel |
Idler roller size | 9.5 in (24.1 cm), 6.6 in (16.8 cm), 4.5 in (11.4 cm) |
Belt Type | Endless belts |
Number of Belts | 4 |
Type of Lace | No laces |
Bale Diameter | 36 in - 72 in (91.4 cm - 182.9 cm) |
Netwrap system | Standard |
Net gauge via control system | Standard |
Net tension control | via control system |
Extra roll storage | Standard |
Control system type | Atlas Pro™ control system |
Display | 7 in (17.8 cm) color touch screen |
Field Statistics | 50 fields with names |
Field statistics download | USB |
Bale shape indicators | Standard |
Bales per hour | Standard |
Bale density adjustments | Standard through control system monitor |
Density readings | Digital gauge |
Tires | 21.5L-16.1 flotation tire |
Driveline | 540 rpm, standard lube, cut-out clutch |
Torque protection pickup | Radial pin clutch |
Roller chains | Single 60, 80, 100 and Double 80 |
Bearing and Sprocket Configuration | Round and Hex drive shafts, greaseable roller bearings |
Bale ramp | Spring-loaded |
Grease bank | Standard |
Automatic chain lube system | Optional |
Right-hand door | Standard |
LED maintenance lights | Optional |
Fire extinguisher, safety chain | Optional |
Pickup type | Camless wide |
Tooth Bars | 5 |
Number of Teeth | (75) double rubber-mounted |
Teeth spacing | 2.5 in (6.4 cm) |
Stripper bands | Poly |
Flotation | Gauge wheels 7.10-16 HD semi-pneumatic with spring assist |
Pickup Lift | Hydraulic |
3-year pickup warranty | Standard |