Looking for used side delivery rake

[haysunday10]

Hay all!! Joined this forum looking for some advice on rakes. I'm finally looking to upgrade from the old dump rake and get into a side delivery model. I've got about 20 acres of mixed grass and alfalfa on some fairly rough ground, so I'm not looking for a perfect show piece, just something reliable to put hay up with. I'm seeing a lot of different styles for sale so it's hard to choose which one's best for the work I'm describing.. What's a good make and model to look for at the used market? Is it better to go with a 3-point, pull-type, or one with a dolly wheel? I don't want to spend more than $1500, so a lot better if it's cheaper!! How realistic is it to find something solid that doesn't need a complete overhaul?? Open to getting recommendations and leads. Thanks in advance for any input!!

 

[bin.bag]

Used 3 point or pull type side delivery rake should work fine. Look for something like a New Holland 56 or John Deere 660/670, they're good and easy to maintain, and you can often find them under $1,500 if you're patient

 

[Brad Pith]

Used New Idea 402 or John Deere 660 side delivery rake with a dolly wheel is good and usually under $1,500. 3 point or pull type depends on your tractor and field layout

 

[r9nger_hf]

Hay all!! Joined this forum looking for some advice on rakes. I'm finally looking to upgrade from the old dump rake and get into a side delivery model. I've got about 20 acres of mixed grass and alfalfa on some fairly rough ground, so I'm not looking for a perfect show piece, just something reliable to put hay up with. I'm seeing a lot of different styles for sale so it's hard to choose which one's best for the work I'm describing.. What's a good make and model to look for at the used market? Is it better to go with a 3-point, pull-type, or one with a dolly wheel? I don't want to spend more than $1500, so a lot better if it's cheaper!! How realistic is it to find something solid that doesn't need a complete overhaul?? Open to getting recommendations and leads. Thanks in advance for any input!!

Try to look for a New Holland 256 or a John Deere 640 or 660. Those are pull-type rakes with a front dolly wheel and are generally preferred over a 3-point. They're rugged, parts are generally available, and they often pop up in that price range, especially if they need a few new teeth or a tire. The key is to find one with a tight gearbox. Also just check for play in the reel bearings and listen for noise in the main gearbox. A little surface rust is fine, but major frame welds or cracked casting is a deal-breaker!

 

[hiii.fer]

Pull type is the easiest to find in that range, I think spring is when people unload these things cheap.
What are you pulling with by the way? hat matters for sizing