DRVING IMPRESSION: Aiming to be a one-stop shop for baling contractors, McHale unveiled a twin-rotor rake three years ago. We take a look at the smaller of the two, the R62-72, which logically indicates this is a 6.2m to 7.2m working width machine. Read on to discover if the rest of the rake makes as much sense
There are two models in the McHale rake range, the R62-72 and the larger R68-78. Beyond their working width there are other subtle differences between the two, with the smaller machine having 11 tine arms compared to the 13 on the 6.8m to 7.8m model; the latter also has six wheels under each rotor with central greasing versus four 170/60-8 tyres and individual lubrication. The options list is also minimalistic — there’s a spare wheel … and that’s your lot.
Both machines share the same lower link headstock with Cat II attachment. The fold down parking stand, held in place by a spring-loaded pin, makes hitching on and off a simple task. Rakes made for the 2020 season have gained a new holding arm for the hoses and electrics as well as keeping the pto safely up out of the way. Prior to this they had a simple holder, but there was nowhere to slot in the unplugged electrics and hoses — this earlier design was fitted to the machine we used.
Speaking of hydraulics, this needs one single and one double-acting supply. Drive shafts are sourced from Walterscheid, while the gearboxes are all stamped McHale. The rotors are sealed, with the cams running in grease to keep them lubricated. There is a plug for the road lights near the headstock, so, if the wire running between the tractor and machine becomes damaged, it’s only a matter of replacing this short section. A manual holder is located on the drawbar.
