Big square baler updates in this year’s Farmers Weekly Ultimate Guide centre around the addition of more technology, making it easier to keep accurate task and crop records, and isobus-linked automation that improves operating efficiency and reduces driver fatigue.

See also: Driver’s view: Blackwater Baling’s New Holland BigBaler 1290 HD

Case IH

Few details regarding updates to next year’s Case IH large square baler line-up have been announced so far, though more information relating to improvements in technology and durability will be revealed at Agritechnica in November.

New features for the LB424 XL include a reinforced pto driveline and lubrication system to reduce maintenance and extend machine life.

With access to FieldOps and an optional Pro 700 Plus terminal, operators can view key bale data points.

Also, with tractor implement management (TIM) certification, the Case IH “baler automation” system – which uses a Lidar sensor on the front of the cab roof to scan the swath and adjust working speed to suit crop volume, and the steering to follow the rows and ensure an even chamber fill – will become available for compatible tractors.

Fendt

© Fendt

Fendt has added a new bale weighing option across its full range of large square balers.

Krone

Krone BiGPack 1290 HDP II © Krone

A new BiGPack 1290 HDP II with a 51-blade cutter unit will be added to the Krone range for next year.

Previous HDP II models were available with a maximum of 26 blades, giving a theoretical 44mm chop length, but the new option provides a shorter 22mm cut.

Blades are individually protected, while the cutting action and resulting chop length is selectable in five groups of blade banks.

These swivel in and out of work hydraulically, with control from the tractor cab or the external keypad.

The baler has a 600kg flywheel, and a completely redesigned hydraulic starter aid with increased torque and a higher final speed has been added for easier starting under heavy loads.

A new “auto check” maintenance mode, controlled by push-buttons, slowly rotates the baler transmission to make it simpler for one person to check from different positions and complete servicing tasks.

Pre-chamber timing relative to the piston, and piston timing relative to the twine knotters, can be checked as part of a self-diagnostic process.

Sensors and actuators can also be checked through the terminal.