Bridgeview BALE KING VR581 Programming manual

Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
BALE KING VR581
Hay Rake
Operator's & Parts Manual
Last Updated: April 18, 2019
Bridgeview Manufacturing Inc.
P.O. Box 4
Gerald, Saskatchewan, Canada
S0A 1B0
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.bridgeviewmanufacturing.com

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The Serial Number is located on the front of the hitch beam behind the manual holder.
Your Authorized Dealer
Your Serial Number

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................................1
1.1 Safety Precautions..................................................................................................................1
1.2 Highway Transport.................................................................................................................2
1.2.1 Dimensions.....................................................................................................................2
1.2.2 Safety Chain & Jack.......................................................................................................3
1.2.3 Lights and Marking ........................................................................................................3
1.2.4 Rake Wheel Safety Locks ..............................................................................................3
1.2.5 Transport Safety Locks...................................................................................................4
1.2.6 Wheels & Caster Brakes.................................................................................................4
2FEATURES AND OPERATION..................................................................................................5
2.1 Hydraulics ..............................................................................................................................5
2.2 Field Operation.......................................................................................................................5
2.3 Adjustments............................................................................................................................6
2.3.1 Lift Cylinder Stoppers....................................................................................................6
2.3.2 Individual Spring Adjusters............................................................................................6
2.3.3 Windrow Width Adjustment ..........................................................................................7
2.3.4 Implement Tongue..........................................................................................................7
2.4 Optional Rubber Mounted Tine (RMT) Rake Wheel.............................................................8
2.5 Optional 14-Wheel Extension Kit..........................................................................................9
2.6 Optional Tire Kits...................................................................................................................9
2.7 Trouble-Shooting Guide.......................................................................................................10
2.8 Specifications .......................................................................................................................10
3MAINTENANCE & LUBRICATION........................................................................................11
3.1 Wheels and Tires..................................................................................................................11
3.2 Greasing................................................................................................................................12
3.3 Tine Replacement.................................................................................................................13
4PARTS BOOK ............................................................................................................................14
4.1 Gooseneck Assembly ...........................................................................................................15
4.1.1 Transport Lock .............................................................................................................17
4.2 Hitch Beam & Scissor Assembly.........................................................................................18
4.2.1 Scissor Components Front............................................................................................18
4.2.2 Scissor Components Rear VR581 ................................................................................20
4.2.3 Width Indicator.............................................................................................................22
4.3 Rear Frame Assembly ..........................................................................................................23
4.3.1 Rear Axle......................................................................................................................24
4.3.2 Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) Sign Kit........................................................................25
4.4 Boom Arm Assembly...........................................................................................................26
4.4.1 Boom Arm Assembly...................................................................................................26
4.4.2 Lift Rod Details............................................................................................................28
4.4.3 Caster Wheel and Hub..................................................................................................29
4.5 Rake Wheel and Arm ...........................................................................................................30
4.5.1 Rake Wheel Assembly (Standard Tine) .......................................................................31
4.5.2 Rake Wheel Assembly (Rubber Mounted Tine) ..........................................................32
4.5.3 Spring Assembly ..........................................................................................................33
4.6 Decals...................................................................................................................................34
4.7 Hydraulic Components.........................................................................................................35
4.7.1 Diverter Valve Kit........................................................................................................37
4.8 Electrical Components .........................................................................................................38

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1INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing your new Bale King hay rake from Bridgeview
Manufacturing. With the proper operation and service as outlined in this manual, this rake
will provide years of trouble-free operation.
The VR581 hay rake is a 12-wheel, V-style rake specially suited for windrowed hay.
An optional 14-wheel extension kit is available, if more coverage is desired.
The rear windrow width is hydraulically adjustable for ease of use. The patented
width compensation system ensures maximum raking width, no matter what the windrow
width is set at.
This is a complete safety, operation, and parts manual for the Bale King hay rake.
This manual covers in detail how to safely and effectively use the rake and these steps should
be followed to ensure safety and the longevity of the machine. The parts section covers all of
the parts you may need to order in case of accident or breakdown.
1.1 Safety Precautions
The following safety precautions MUST be followed to ensure the safe operation of the
Bale King hay rake.
•This trailed machine was designed and intended for on-farm use only. Tow at speeds
not exceeding 20 miles/hour (32 km/h). Slow down for hills, curves, rough area,
and in advance of braking to prevent loss of control and possible injury or death.
•Read and follow the Highway Transport section before towing on public roads.
•Always turn off tractor and ensure parking brake is applied before leaving the
operating platform.
•Stand clear of the rake while in operation.
•Do not stand near or inside the rake during opening or closing. Ensure that there is
enough room to open the rake in an area before doing so.
•Beware of pinch points at all articulating joints.

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WARNING: Pressurized hydraulic fluid can cause serious injury
•When working with hydraulic equipment, eye and hand protection should be worn.
•Do not test for leaks with bare hands.
•Relieve hydraulic pressure before removing a hose or fitting.
•Never work under components raised by hydraulic equipment unless supported
externally.
1.2 Highway Transport
When transporting the Bale King hay rake on public roads, there are a number of safety
precautions that must be taken to ensure safety to everyone on the road.
1.2.1 Dimensions
VR581-12
VR581-14
Transport Width
10'-6"
12'-4"
Transport Height
7'-7"
Transport Length
32'-8"
36"
Transport Weight (Gross)
4200 lb
4600 lb
Transport Weight (Tongue)
550 lb
Ensure that road restrictions do not prohibit these dimensions, and that the towing vehicle
and hitch are properly rated for the weight (both gross and tongue).
DO NOT EXCEED 20 mph (32 km/h) DURING TRANSPORT.

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1.2.2 Safety Chain & Jack
Make sure that the safety chain is properly attached to the towing vehicle. There should be
enough slack that the trailer can turn freely, but not so much that the chain drags on the
ground. The jack should be stored on the underside of the gooseneck hitch to avoid damage.
The chain is rated for 11,000 lb.
1.2.3 Lights and Marking
The Bale King hay rake comes standard with a light kit for better visibility. The lights can be
plugged into the standard 7-pin round trailer plug on a tractor. However, to tow with a light
truck, an adaptor is required. The lights function as flashing amber lights, with solid red tail
lights. Ensure that they are functioning properly before towing.
Ensure that the SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) sign is in place and visible.
1.2.4 Rake Wheel Safety Locks
The lift rods (located on the left and right boom arms) should be locked in place to keep the
rake wheels from touching the ground during transport. To insert the safety locks, raise the
rake wheels to their highest position, then insert the pin as shown. Make sure that this is
done for both lift rods. Store pin in other hole when not required.

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1.2.5 Transport Safety Locks
Close the rake into its folded position. First
ensure that the rear opening is in the transport
position (the indicator needle at the bottom line).
Next close the boom arms until the front caster
wheels are brought in near the hitch.
Swing the transport locks out from
under the gooseneck hitch, and connect to the
pivot on the front caster. Pull out the self-
locking pin (black handle) to lengthen or
shorten as required. Secure with the 5/8" pin
and lynch pin. Finally, adjust the boom width so that the self-locking pin snaps into place.
Ensure that both sides are locked.
1.2.6 Wheels & Caster Brakes
Check tire pressure and wheel nut torque of all wheels regularly.
Drive straight forward several feet until all caster wheels are aligned with the direction of
travel (angled rearwards). Tighten the brake springs so there is about 1/16" between the coils.
This will prevent the casters from whipping.
If the casters continue to whip, first SLOW DOWN. Do not exceed 20 mph (32
km/h). If this does not help, tighten the brakes further until the problem no longer occurs.
IMPORTANT: Ensure that the spring is loosened back off before operation or the rake
will be very difficult to turn or back up.

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2FEATURES AND OPERATION
2.1 Hydraulics
There are three sets of hydraulic hoses to connect to the tractor. Each hose has a coloured
marker to identify its function. They should be connected at best convenience for the
tractor's controls. Note that the hoses are paired by colour and the following table shows the
operation when pushing oil into the hose with the longer marker.
An optional diverter kit is available to allow the rake to run using only two sets of
hoses. The open/close and rear windrow width functions can then be toggled using a cab-
mounted control box.
VR581
Diverter Kit
26357
2.2 Field Operation
The MAXIMUM recommended raking speed is 8 mph (13 km/h), depending on field
conditions. Rougher land and heavier hay require slower operation. This will prevent
damage to the rake tines and premature wear.
For faster operating conditions, rake wheel spring pressure can be increased to
prevent excess bouncing of the tines. Under normal conditions, the rake wheel pressure
should be approximately 15 lb.
Hose Marker
Standard 3-Remote
Optional 2-Remote
Control Box
-
MAIN
REAR WIDTH
Long Red
Open rake
Open rake
Increase windrow width
Long Yellow
Lift rake wheels
Lift rake wheels
Long Blue
Increase windrow width
-

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2.3 Adjustments
Optimum rake performance is achieved when the rake wheels are lightly scratching the
ground. This is controlled by the springs on each individual wheel. If the spring tension is
set too heavy, premature rake tine damage could occur. Also, dirt and rocks could be picked
up and mixed in with the hay. If spring tension is to light, the hay will not be properly
picked up. If the tension in the spring arms needs to be adjusted, the stoppers on the lift
cylinders can be adjusted (see next page).
2.3.1 Lift Cylinder Stoppers
The lift cylinders are located near the back of each
individual boom arm. When the cylinder is retracted, the
rake wheels touch the ground. The 3-stage nut located on
the cylinder shaft can be turned to adjust the cylinder stroke.
If the rake wheel pressure is too high, increase the length of
the nut. Adjust one boom at a time (using the transport lock
on others), find the desired wheel weight with hydraulics,
then turn the nut until it bottoms out on the cylinder. Lastly,
spin the jam rings up against the nut to keep it from turning.
2.3.2 Individual Spring Adjusters
If the spring tension for only one wheel needs to be finely adjusted, then the
adjustment can be done on the individual spring. There are two nuts near
the end of the spring (see left) that allow the spring to be loosened or
tightened. This should be done only in the case that one wheel is
significantly different weight than the others. Excess threads beyond the
nut MUST be trimmed to avoid bottoming out.

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2.3.3 Windrow Width Adjustment
The rear opening of the Bale King hay rake is adjustable using the
windrow width adjustment
cylinder. It must be in the narrow position to be able to transport on the
highway. Widening the rear opening will space the wheels farther apart,
creating a wider windrow. Pulling the rear opening closer together will
create a tighter swath. This allows the operator to adjust the width of the
windrow to suit field conditions and to accommodate different sized
balers.
An indicator is provided to show you how wide the rear end is set. This will allow
you to consistently set the machine to your desired windrow width. The needle moves up to
indicate a wider windrow, while the
bottom position indicates transport
width.
2.3.4 Implement Tongue
The adjustable hitch on the Bale King
hay rake features a single cast tongue
with optional clevis insert. This allows
for use with tractors equipped with a
hammer strap, or a single drawbar. It
also allows the machine to move
independently over rough terrain without bending the draw pin.
Make sure that the hitch height is adjusted to match your tractor's particular drawbar
height. The hitch beam should sit level when connected to the tractor.
DO NOT install the clevis insert if the tractor also has a hammer strap. This could
cause the hitch pin to bend or break.
S/N 3296 & down
Clevis Hitch Insert
25540
S/N 3297 & up
Clevis Hitch Insert
29786
IMPORTANT: For maximum turning radius, ensure that the tractor's drawbar is in its most extended position.
If the pin still does not stick out past the tires, a drawbar extension may be required.

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2.4 Optional Rubber Mounted Tine (RMT) Rake Wheel
The Bale King hay rake can be outfitted with optional rubber mounted tine rake wheels.
These wheels provide better performance under tough raking conditions by getting under the
thatch more aggressively and breaking up the loose material. This is especially useful on hay
that has been rained on heavily with lots of regrowth.
These wheels are a direct replacement to the standard wheels, and can be replaced at
any time (in any quantity).
Model
Kit #
VR581
RMT Rake Wheel - Left
31292
VR581
RMT Rake Wheel - Right
31293

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2.5 Optional 14-Wheel Extension Kit
The Bale King hay rake can be outfitted with an extension kit to add 1 rake wheel to each
side, allowing the rake to cover a wider area. This kit can be purchased from Bridgeview
Manufacturing or a registered dealer, and can be installed in a short amount of time.
Model
Kit #
VR581
12- to 14-wheel Extension Kit
22034
VR581
Hitch Extension Kit
22191
VR581
Boom Caster Wheel Kit
22195
This package will allow for approximately 4 ft of additional coverage. All 3 kits are required.
2.6 Optional Tire Kits
The Bale King hay rake can be outfitted with additional tires to provide a better ride over
rough land. An additional caster wheel can be added to the side of the boom for floatation
over small ruts (such as irrigation pivots). This kit is standard on a 14-wheel rake.
Additionally, the single rear axle can be upgraded to a tandem walking axle.
These kits can be purchased from Bridgeview Manufacturing or a registered dealer,
and can be installed in a short amount of time.
Model
Kit #
VR581
Rear Walking Axle Upgrade Kit
22193
VR581
Floatation Caster Wheel Kit *
22195
* This package will increase the transport width by approximately 2 ft.

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2.7 Trouble-Shooting Guide
Problem
Possible Cause
Remedy
Rake plugging at rear end
Windrow width too narrow
Increase windrow width
(indicator needle moves
upward)
Too much material
Close rake booms slightly to
catch less material
Missing hay
Tine pressure too light
Increase spring pressure
Rake wheels not turning
Tine pressure too light
Increase spring pressure
Wheel angle too shallow
Close rake booms slightly
A single wheel not turning
Tine pressure too light
Adjust individual spring
pressure
Hub or arm not greased
Grease full machine
Rake tines breaking excessively
Tine pressure too heavy
Decrease spring pressure
Too fast or rough ground
Slow down
Tires low
Check tire pressure
Caster wheels wobbling during
transportation
Caster brakes not tightened
Tighten caster brakes (loosen
for operation)
Driving too fast
Slow down
Lights not functioning properly
Loose plug connectors
Check plug connectors (one at
each light, one under center of
rear frame)
Wrong tractor connector
Make sure tractor and trailer
use the same connector
2.8 Specifications
Operation
12 Wheel
14 Wheel
Raking Width
28 ft
32 ft
Windrow Width
4 ft - 6.5 ft
Rake Wheel
62" Diameter, 48 Tines
Transport
Width
10'-6"
12'-4"
Height
7'-7"
Length
32'-8"
36'
Weight (Total)
4200 lb
4600 lb
Weight (Tongue)
550 lb
Tires
Size
9.5L-15SL, 8 ply
Pressure
35 psi
Wheel Nut Torque
90 ft-lb

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3MAINTENANCE & LUBRICATION
General maintenance of your Bale King hay rake should be done on a regular basis.
This includes checking all bolts to ensure they are tight, ensuring all joints are properly
greased, and that all moving parts are functioning correctly.
Before the raking season, a full inspection of the rake should be done, ensuring that
the wheel hubs are tight and fully greased, any broken tines replaced, and no hydraulic leaks
are present.
3.1 Wheels and Tires
Maintaining proper tire pressure will help to alleviate puncture problems on rough terrain.
Check tires for wear and tear on a regular basis.
Tire Size
9.5L-15SL, 8-ply
Tire Pressure
35 psi
Wheel Bolt Torque
90 ft-lb
Warranty does not cover damaged rims and hubs due to loose wheel bolts. Ensure that the
wheel bolt torque is checked after the first hour of use. Tire warranty is covered by the
tire manufacturer. See your local tire dealer for service and replacement.

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3.2 Greasing
The VR581 hay rake is fitted with a number of grease zerks. It is important that these
locations are continuously lubricated.
Location
QTY
12 Wheel
QTY
14 Wheel
Timeline
A
Caster Pivot
2
4
10 hr
B
Rake Arm Pivot
12
14
C
Boom Arm Pivot
2
2
D
Knuckle Pivot
4
4
E
Walking Axle Pivot
2
2
F
Rake Wheel Hub
12
14
G
Caster Wheel Hub
2
4
200 hours or
seasonal
H
Rear Wheel Hub
2
2
NOTE: For ease of greasing, all zerks are accessed from the outside of the rake. The rake should be
either fully closed or fully open (including rear width) for best access to fittings (C) and (D).

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3.3 Tine Replacement
Standard Wheels:
Occasionally during operation, a rake wheel tine will break. The following procedure can be
used to replace a tine without removing the rake wheel from the machine.
•Remove the corresponding bolt for the broken tine.
•Pull the tine out of the center disk.
•Pull the tine out of the wind guard
tab (if necessary).
•Slide the tine out of the hole in the
outer ring by pushing it inwards and
rotating.
•Insert the replacement tine in the
opposite way from removal.
•Reinsert bolt and tighten.
•PART #16092
RMT Wheels
Rubber mounted tines are replaced in pairs without any further disassembly required.

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4PARTS BOOK
The following diagrams show the part numbers for ordering any damaged parts on a VR581.
Make sure to use the correct diagram for the desired model.
Quantities are listed as shown, and some components are optional. The total
quantities will vary depending on model and size. The diagrams should be referenced to find
the part number, and order quantities should be based on what is required, not necessarily by
the quantity on the table.
Left and right as used in the parts book is as viewed from the rear of the rake looking
in the direction of travel.
Parts Book Sections
Section
Description
4.1
Gooseneck
4.2
Hitch Beams and Scissor
4.3
Rear Frame
4.4
Boom Arms
4.5
Rake Wheel Assembly
4.6
Decals
4.7
Hydraulics
4.8
Electrical

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4.1 Gooseneck Assembly

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4.1 Gooseneck Assembly
Description
ID #
QTY
Description
ID #
QTY
1
Gooseneck
25563
1
16
Jack, 5000 lb Sidewind
18034
1
2
Front Hitch Beam 581
22232
(1)
17
Spring Hose Holder
18080
1
3
Hitch Beam Extension *
22192
1
18
Flat Washer, 5/8"
21390
1
4
Bolt, 5/8 x 1-3/4"
12379
10
19
Nut, 5/8" Nylon Lock
10364
1
5
Nut, 5/8" Serrated Flange
11614
10
20
Operator Manual Bracket
23294
1
6
Hitch Tongue
#
1
21
Operator Manual Box
22409
1
7
Bolt, 3/4 x 5-3/4"
10802
2
22
Bolt, 1/4 x 3/4"
11809
4
8
Nut, 3/4" Stover Lock
11823
2
23
Flat Washer, 1/4"
11666
4
9
Hitch Clevis Option
#
1
24
Nut, 1/4" Nylon Lock
11664
4
10
Hitch Clevis
25
Hydraulic Bulkhead Plate 1
26371
1
11
Hitch Clevis Bolt
26
Hydraulic Bulkhead Plate 2
26372
1
12
Hitch Clevis Nut
27
Bolt, 3/8 x 1"
13806
4
13
Safety Chain
21715
1
28
Grommet
21428
1
14
Bolt, 1 x 2"
18992
1
29
Transport Lock Assembly
-
1
15
Nut, 1" Stover Lock
21746
1
* NOTE: 14 wheel only
# NOTE: See below for more information
The exact hitch tongue/clevis required depends on what is currently installed on your machine. There are 2
different versions. Select the correct version before ordering parts.
* NOTE: Includes (10)(11)(12)
NSS = Not Sold Separately
Description
A
B
6
Hitch Tongue
22440
29785
9
Hitch Clevis Option *
25540
29786
10
Hitch Clevis
22441
NSS
11
Hitch Clevis Bolt
26406
NSS
Hitch Clevis Nut
11823
NSS

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4.1.1 Transport Lock
Right arm not shown
4.1.1 Transport Lock Assembly
Description
ID #
QTY
Description
ID #
QTY
1
Transport Lock Knuckle
25645
2
9
Nut, 5/8" Nylon Lock
10364
1
2
Transport Lock Bar
25648
1
10
Bolt, 3/8 x 3-1/4"
23325
8
3
Transport Lock Tube
25649
1
11
1
Bolt, 3/8 x 1-1/2"
11660
1
4
Transport Lock Bracket
26369
2
12
Flat Washer, 3/8"
11667
16
5
Tee-Handle Pin
21246
1
13
Nut, 3/8" Nylon Lock
10806
9
6
Bolt, 1 x 3-1/2"
25663
1
14
Clevis Pin, 5/8 x 2-3/4"
21829
1
7
Nut, 1" Stover Lock
21746
1
15
Lynch Pin, 3/16 x 1-1/4"
13233
1
8
Bolt, 5/8 x 3"
20907
1