An Overview of the Different Types of Hay Rakes

The experts at West Hills Tractor have created this guide to highlight the basics of the different types of rakes that you can choose for your farming business. These implements are crucial to your operations, so you won’t want to affect your productivity and quality of harvest by picking up the wrong type. Keep reading this guide for advice on choosing the right attachments, and then visit us to get any concerns addressed by our professional experts. We’re in Jonesborough, TN, where we happily welcome our friends from Johnson City and Greeneville.

Wheel Rakes

Wheel rakes are the cheapest and the simplest type of farm implements without any PTO or hydraulics. They are ideal for handling dry crops and operate well at high speeds. These rakes come in various configurations and sizes, making it easy for you to find one that’s perfect for your farm.

Rotary Rakes

If your farm experiences plenty of moisture, you’ll need a rotary rake to deliver dry and fluffy windrows. Though you can use your rake to handle wet hay, you can also make the most of it to tackle dry and thin crops. Adjust the settings on your rotary rake to control your windrow width and make sure your hay has no soil contamination.

Bar Rakes

Bar rakes have a hydraulic drive system that allows them to handle different types of crops without coming into contact with the ground and gives you various windrows options, too. These are also known as basket rakes, parallel bar rakes, and twin rakes that are durable and need less maintenance. All you’ll need to do is check the teeth on your bar rake from time to time to ensure they are sharp and functional.

Belt Rakes

If you need a compact and lightweight rake for your farm, look no further than belt rakes. These implements can handle both dry and wet hay and make fluffy windrows sooner than you think. The unique design of these rakes allows them to work without their tines having to come in contact with the ground, and you can also reverse your belt rake to use it in tighter spaces on your farm. You can even use this attachment as a tedder when dethatching a lawn or preparing a seedbed. To make it perform like a tedder, lower the tines to let them contact the ground.

Are you ready to look at a few models in person? Visit West Hills Tractor, where we have an impressive collection of hay rakes for sale. Our friendly staff can give you a complete tour of the available options and suggest models for your budget. We can also help you choose a hay rake that’s right for you. To peruse our inventory or speak with our experts, come down to our dealership in Jonesborough, TN, where we proudly serve those from Johnson City and Greeneville.