6 Best Parallel Bar Rakes For Small Hay Fields

Efficiency in the hay field often comes down to the quality of the windrow and how gently it is handled. A clean, uniform row makes the difference between a productive day in the baler and hours spent fighting clogs. Choosing the right parallel bar rake ensures the crop stays leafy and clean while meeting the constraints of a small-scale operation.

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Befco T40 Series Rake: Best for Small Tractors

The Befco T40 Series stands out as a top contender for those running sub-compact or compact tractors. Its lightweight frame design minimizes the load on the three-point hitch while maintaining the structural integrity needed for daily field work.

This unit excels because it avoids the “over-built” trap that plagues many other implements, which often prove too heavy for smaller hydraulic systems to lift comfortably. By prioritizing a lower center of gravity, it remains stable even when navigating uneven or rolling terrain.

If operating a tractor under 30 horsepower, this rake is the optimal choice. It balances maneuverability with a gentle raking action that preserves delicate alfalfa leaves. Selecting the T40 means investing in a tool specifically engineered for the realities of smaller horsepower setups.

New Holland 256 Rolabar: The Proven Workhorse

The New Holland 256 Rolabar is widely considered the gold standard for a reason. Its reputation is built on decades of field performance, and its design remains largely unchanged because it works exceptionally well.

The machine is highly respected for its ability to handle thick, heavy windrows without bunching or roping. Because parts are readily available and widely stocked, this rake is essentially future-proof for anyone planning to own it for the next twenty years.

Investing in a 256 is a commitment to reliability. While it may lack the high-tech bells and whistles of newer, imported models, it consistently delivers clean, high-quality hay. For those who prioritize a machine that will simply start and perform every season, the 256 is the definitive answer.

Farm-Maxx FR-T40: The Budget-Friendly Choice

When the goal is to acquire reliable equipment without breaking the bank, the Farm-Maxx FR-T40 offers a practical path forward. It provides the essential features of a professional-grade rake at a price point that makes sense for part-time operations.

This rake handles small-to-medium fields with ease and provides a clean sweep that leaves minimal residue behind. While the materials might be lighter than those found on legacy machines, they are perfectly adequate for the acreage typical of a small hobby farm.

The FR-T40 is an excellent entry point for new landowners who need utility without the high upfront cost. It delivers a solid return on investment by simplifying the raking process for those who do not have the volume to justify a premium commercial unit.

Sitrex QR Series Rake: Quality Italian Design

Sitrex has earned a reputation for combining precision engineering with practical field application. The QR Series features a robust gear-driven design that eliminates the common maintenance headaches associated with chain-driven rakes.

The Italian manufacturing quality is immediately apparent in the smoothness of the basket operation. This translates to less vibration, which in turn reduces the wear and tear on the implement over the long term.

Those seeking a mid-range, professional-feeling machine will appreciate the balance Sitrex provides. It is an ideal choice for the hobby farmer who wants a high-quality, durable tool that operates with modern efficiency. The QR Series offers reliability that justifies the investment for anyone serious about hay quality.

Pequea HR939 Hay Rake: Heavy-Duty Performance

The Pequea HR939 is built for those who push their equipment to the limit. It features a heavy-duty chassis and superior basket construction, making it the most capable choice for working in heavy or damp forage conditions.

This rake is significantly more robust than entry-level models, providing the durability needed for larger fields or more demanding harvest schedules. The build quality ensures that the basket maintains its shape even when moving large amounts of material.

If the farm operation involves high-yield crops or difficult terrain, the HR939 is the superior choice. It offers the kind of performance that handles stress without buckling, making it the right pick for those who prefer to buy a tool once rather than replacing it later.

John Deere 640 Rake: The Collector’s Favorite

The John Deere 640 holds a legendary status in the hay world, and for good reason. It is often sought after not just for its performance, but for the ease of operation and the sheer longevity of the design.

While finding a used 640 in good condition requires a bit of hunting, the reward is a machine that maintains its value incredibly well. Its simple, effective mechanism creates a consistent windrow that feeds perfectly into almost any baler.

Choosing a 640 is as much about heritage as it is about function. For those who appreciate well-engineered, classic machinery that can still outperform many modern units, the 640 is an iconic addition to the equipment shed. It remains a top choice for those who value longevity and performance above all else.

Choosing the Right Rake for Your Tractor’s HP

Matching the rake to the tractor is the most critical step in the purchasing process. A rake that is too heavy will leave the front end of the tractor light and difficult to steer, while one that is too large can put excessive strain on the hydraulics.

• 15–25 HP: Look for compact, lightweight rakes with a 4-bar or 5-bar design.
• 25–45 HP: Mid-sized, standard duty rakes will perform reliably without over-taxing the lift capacity.
• 45+ HP: Full-sized or heavy-duty rakes can handle larger baskets and faster operating speeds.

Always consult the tractor’s lift capacity specifications before finalizing a decision. Remember that a rake full of heavy, wet hay adds significantly to the weight the tractor must manage on an incline.

How to Set Rake Height for the Cleanest Hay

Proper height adjustment is the difference between clean forage and dirt-filled bales. If the tines are set too low, they will scuff the ground, introducing soil and contaminants into the windrow. If set too high, the rake will miss the fine, protein-rich leaves at the base of the stems.

The ideal setting allows the tines to just graze the top of the stubble. Spend the first few minutes in the field checking the windrow; if there is debris or soil, raise the rake by a fraction of an inch.

Consistent monitoring throughout the day is essential, as the terrain will change from one end of the field to the other. A well-adjusted rake preserves the nutrient value of the crop by keeping it off the bare ground.

Essential Maintenance for Your Parallel Bar Rake

A parallel bar rake is relatively simple, but it demands routine attention to stay in working order. Check the gearbox oil levels and grease the pivot points before every use to ensure smooth operation of the basket.

Inspect the tines for any signs of fatigue or bending. A single missing or broken tine can leave a strip of hay behind, which eventually leads to a messy windrow that clogs the baler.

At the end of the season, clean all dirt and debris from the frame to prevent corrosion. Storing the rake under cover or with a heavy-duty tarp keeps moisture from seizing the moving parts, ensuring a seamless start to the following season.

Parallel Bar vs. Wheel Rake: Making the Choice

The debate between parallel bar rakes and wheel rakes often comes down to forage quality. Parallel bar rakes are widely preferred for delicate crops because they lift the material, resulting in less leaf shatter and significantly less dirt contamination.

Wheel rakes offer higher ground speed and are often cheaper, but they tend to drag the hay across the field. In sandy or dusty conditions, this leads to grit in the bales, which is detrimental to livestock health and machine life.

For the hobby farmer focused on premium-quality hay, the parallel bar rake is the clear winner. It requires more careful operation and maintenance, but the resulting cleaner, more uniform windrows pay off in the baler and in the manger.

Reliable equipment is the backbone of a successful small-scale hay operation. By selecting the right parallel bar rake and maintaining it with care, the process of moving from cut grass to square bale becomes a rewarding, streamlined rhythm. Choose based on the tractor’s capacity and the specific goals for the forage, and the rewards will follow with every harvest.