Replaced for the 2002 season by the current Vicon RV 1601 and 1901 designs, RV 156 and 186 variable-chamber balers are proven machines. Only when it comes to baling silage does care need to be taken, because some models are only really suited to a well-wilted, ‘sunny’ crop. This proviso aside, a used Vicon variable-chamber baler should make a sound second-hand buy – given, of course, selection of the ‘right’ machine
As a general rule, belt-type variable-chamber balers tend to be favoured for their ability to produce a good straw bale or to work with a ‘dry’ crop of grass. Those looking to make round bale silage typically favour a fixed-chamber design. Of course, this approach needs to be qualified. A variable-chamber baler is capable of making a good silage bale, though RV balers with the standard pick-up (ie non-Opticut models) can suffer if the crop is too wet and heavy
This certainly applies to older model Vicon/Greenland RV 156 and the RV 186 variable-chamber balers not fitted with a rotor feed. Although reliable in hay and straw, machines without the rotor feed system may have intake problems in typical grass silage.
In terms of the models on offer, the Vicon/Greenland round baler line-up is initially confusing. Used machines include RV 115, RV 125, RV 126, RV 127, RV 156, RV 186, RV 157, RV 187 variable-chamber models in both 1.50m and 1.80m round baler sizes.
These designations actually help indicate the machine’s year of manufacture, although not with pinpoint accuracy (refer to ‘Model developments’). The year of build is not stamped onto the data plate either, so used buyers need to contact their local Vicon dealer for an accurate idea of when the baler was manufactured.
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