Release Date: May 2007
Robust R80 Design Promises Speedier Performance.
MacDon, the Harvesting Specialists, have released a new rotary disc mower (available in both pull-type and self-propelled models) which offers a number of important benefits for producers who harvest hay and forage including faster operation, less downtime and a unique hitch on the pull-type model that will let operators open fields faster.
Hydraulically driven, the R80 Rotary Disc Mower features a high capacity, high efficiency bent axis pump and motor that allows for faster cutting speeds, even under tough harvesting conditions. This robust hydraulic drive system also provides overload protection for header components, reducing the likelihood of work interruptions. Reliability is enhanced due to the fact that the R80’s design features heat-treated cutting and wear components and separate replaceable guards to protect the cutterbar between the discs. The R80 also uses fewer moving parts than some competitive disc mowers, which not only reduces the chance of breakdown but also annual maintenance requirements.
The R80 Pull-Type is available with a 13' (3.97 m) cutting width, and in 13' (3.97 m) and 16' (4.88 m) cutting widths as a header for MacDon’s new M Series Self-Propelled Windrowers.
Perhaps the most novel feature of the R80 Pull-Type is its Articulated Power Turn (APT) hitch, a design exclusive to MacDon. This new hitch attaches quickly and delivers optimum maneuverability while minimizing the side loads put on the back of the tractor. The improved maneuverability now lets an operator turn the tractor more tightly when turning to make the next pass, thus making it possible to open up a field in as little as two passes. This new hitch also features a quick-change attachment system that uses either a drawbar attachment or three-point lift arms.
The R80 Disc features MacDon’s exclusive N-bar conditioner rolls, which have been specially designed for the aggressive feeding of disc mower operation. In addition to allowing for maximum cutting speeds, these conditioner rolls provide operators with the widest range of conditioning, from “kink” to a gentle crushing action, allowing them to maximize hay and forage nutrient values. The straight design of these conditioner rolls also makes them easier to repair or replace.