Case IH RBX Series User manual

rbx series round baler
FEATURING
•Safety
• Service Inspections
• Baler Monitor Functions
• Baler Operation
• Maintenance
• Troubleshooting
• Updates and Kits

GENERAL INFORMATION
CONTENTS
Safety .................................................... 3-4
Service Inspections ................................. 5-6
Baler Monitor Functions ........................ 7-11
Baler Operation.................................. 12-19
Maintenance ...................................... 20-26
Troubleshooting .................................. 27-28
Parts Kits/Accessories/Assemblies ...... 29-35
Introduction
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this
Case IH round baler customer clinic. Our goal is to
enhance your awareness of product features and
function, as well as certain maintenance procedures
and products that will prolong the life of your baler.
We have included information in this Productivity Guide
that will be helpful in operating and maintaining your
Case IH baler. Your Operator’s Manual will include
most of this information, however some helpful hints and
operating suggestions in this Guide have been assembled
by listening to the experiences of baler owners just like
you. If your baler is operated or maintained by more than
one person, be sure to share helpful hints in this Guide
with all operators to keep your machine working at top
efficiency. While this information will prove helpful in
achieving top performance we remind you that it is not
a replacement for your Operator’s Manual.
At Case IH, we want to see you achieve a level
of performance and reliability that exceeds your
expectations, and confirms the belief that you have
purchased the best large square baler available.
What makes a Case IH RBX baler so special?
Let’s take a look–
2

SAFETY
3
We value our customers, and hope that each baling
season is safe and productive. Sometimes, in the rush to
beat the weather, start chores, or avoid missing the first
inning of the softball game, safety vigilance fails—and
the risk of an accident soars. Never attempt to save a
moment by compromising safety—the result can cost more
time than ever was saved—and sometimes the cost may
be immeasurable. The Operator’s Manual contains a
comprehensive list of safety rules for your RBX Series
baler. Please take a few moments to review the entire
list. We’ve listed some of the most important here.
General Safety Rules
➤Read the Operator’s Manual thoroughly before
starting, operating, servicing or carrying out any
other operation on the machine. The time invested
in reviewing the manual will pay off in terms of time
saved later.
➤Read all the safety decals on the machine and follow
the instructions. Immediately replace any decals that
are missing or damaged.
➤The baler should be operated only by responsible
individuals, who are familiar with the machine.
➤Avoid fire hazards by keeping the baler clean. Inspect
the unit daily for signs of hydraulic leaks, and have
leaks repaired before further use.
➤A fire extinguisher should be mounted on the baler,
easily accessible from the ground and away from
moving parts and areas where debris is likely to
accumulate. The presence of hydraulic and lubricating
oil dictate that an ABC extinguisher is the best choice.
➤Though not directly related to baler operation—a
word of caution about handling large bales. Every
year, individuals are injured when using incorrect
methods of handling that do not completely restrain
and control the weight of large bales. Use the
correct spear or grapple equipment to handle bales.
Refer to loader or bale carrier Operator Manuals for
correct bale handling methods.
Baler Hookup, Transport and
Field Operation
➤Before connecting the baler to the tractor, be sure the
tractor meets minimum horsepower requirements and
is ballasted to control the weight of the baler,
especially when operating in hilly terrain.
➤Do not enter the area between the tractor wheels and
the baler when the tractor engine is running.
➤Be sure the tractor drawbar capacity is sufficient for
the baler tongue weight. The hitch pin must be securely
cross pinned, and the safety chain properly connected
to the tractor before road transport. Check warning
lights before entering a public roadway.
➤When transporting the baler on a public road, fully raise
the pickup, and engage the flywheel brake. Raise the
bale chute to close the bale chamber.
➤Always use SMV sign, flashing warning lights, and turn
signals when transporting the machine on public roads.
➤Maintain a safe speed when transporting and
maneuvering the baler in traffic. Be constantly aware
of the size and weight of the towed baler. Allow for
the added weight of bales that may be in the baler.
➤Do not work around the baler wearing loose clothing
that could get caught in the moving parts.
➤Prior to operating the baler, assure that all guards
and covers provided are properly installed, including
PTO shaft shielding.
➤Never allow anyone to ride on the baler or the
tractor. Keep the children away from and off the
baler at all times.
➤Prior to engaging the PTO, always make sure there
are no bystanders nearby. Sound a warning with the
tractor horn as an added precaution.
➤Always operate the baler at a safe speed, especially
when on uneven ground or inclines. Use particular
care when turning on hillsides or near embankments.
➤Always make sure that the area behind the machine
is clear before manually ejecting the bale.

4
SAFETY
BASIC CONFIGURATION SPECIFICATIONS
The RBX series of Round Balers is offered in two basic
bale widths of 3.9' (nominal 4') and 5.1' (nominal 5').
Minimum bale diameter is 2.5' on RBX443, and 3' on
all other models. Maximum nominal bale size, in feet,
forallmodelsis4X4(RBX443); 4 X 5 (RBX453);
4X6(RBX463); 5 X 5 (RBX553); and 5 X 6 (RBX563).
Four standard pickup sizes include 5', 6.4', 7'
and 7.8'. Pickup style and width are matched to baler
size and specialty function for optimum crop movement
from stubble to the baler. Standard and wide width
choices are available for RBX463 and RBX563.
RBX453 is available in both Silage and Rotor-cutter
Silage models, with structural modifications and
endless belts to handle the added weight of high-
moisture crop, as well as special roll and belt features
to self-clean the unit and prevent accumulation of
sticky crop residue.
Chevron pattern belts and steel rolls aggressively
move and tumble crop for quick and effortless core
formation. A stuffer pickup is available on all models
except the RBX553.
All RBX models are equipped for twine wrapping.
The RBX443 uses a single arm, double twine
electrically actuated system. The Electric-Controlled
Twine Wrap System is available for twine-only
wrapping on RBX453 Silage, RBX453 Rotor-cutter
Silage, RBX463 and RBX563; with in-cab control
of twine application using the dual twin arm system.
The Electric-Controlled Twine wrap console also
includes bale shape and size indicators, and a
full bale alarm.
The Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap
System offers programmable twine and net placement.
This automated system is available on all models
except RBX443. The net wrapping system can be used
with standard-width net that covers the outer bale
surface, in addition to wider net that wraps around
the outer edges of the bale for improved appearance,
weather resistance and handling characteristics.
Baler Hookup, Transport and
Field Operation (cont.)
➤Keep hands, feet and/or garments away from
moving parts. ALWAYS DISENGAGE THE PTO AND
STOP THE TRACTOR ENGINE before attempting
service, adjustments or clearing the baler of crop or
debris. Do not dismount the tractor until all machine
rotation has stopped. Remove the ignition key from
the tractor when leaving the equipment unattended.
➤If the baler is equipped with a rotor-cutter, use special
care when working in the area near the cutter knives.
Lower the knives out of the feeder area using the
tractor hydraulic valve prior to servicing or removing
crop from the feeder.
Machine Maintenance
➤When adjusting, cleaning, lubricating or performing
repairs, the baler must be completely stopped.
Disengage the PTO, stop the tractor engine.
➤If the gate is opened for service operations, close
the gate lock valve before entering the area under
or near the gate.
➤Always block the baler wheels and set the tractor
parking brake before working on or under the machine.
➤When working on the hydraulic system, always
ensure that the system is not under pressure before
disconnecting pipes and/or hoses.
➤When servicing belts or rollers, tension must be
removed from the belts. Use the procedure detailed
in the Operator’s Manual to relieve belt tension.
➤Oil escaping under pressure can be injected into the
skin and cause serious injury. When searching for oil
leaks, wear safety glasses and use a piece of wood
or cardboard to locate high pressure leaks. NEVER
use your hands to detect an oil leak.
➤When servicing or repairs are complete, make sure
that all guards are in place.

SERVICE INSPECTIONS
5
Take Full Advantage of its Capabilities
When you schedule your equipment for annual maintenance
inspection services, your Case IH dealership places annual
UPTIME Action Maintenance decals on your equipment
after each inspection (see figure 5.1), distinguishing your
commitment to keep your machines running in top condition.
Not only does annual maintenance support your productivity
in the field, each decal symbolizes completed service—
which may increase the resale value of your equipment.
Because Case IH technicians use Customized Maintenance
Inspection Checklists for each inspection, you can rest
assured that the service is thorough and nothing is overlooked.
Maintenance Choices, Being Prepared for DEMANDING Conditions
Ask your Case IH dealer about Customized Maintenance Inspections. It is a proactive way to be sure your
baler will operate at its best possible performance when you need it.
Customized Maintenance Inspections include a visual and functional inspection of your baler.
They can be used as a pre-season or as a post-season tune-up. Benefits include:
• Increased productivity
• Less downtime during the season
• Lower operating costs
• Improved fuel economy
• Documented maintenance
• Service by Case IH-trained technicians
• Service with Genuine Case IH lubricants, kits, and parts
The combined advantages of CMI services should result in a lower cost of ownership and higher resale values.
Documented Service Promotes
High Resale Value
Figure 5.1
➤Getting the most from your Case IH baler is the
purpose of this booklet.
➤Case IH wants to help owners achieve peak
efficiency from all of their equipment.
Have you, or someone you know, purchased a new
baler in the last few years and continued to use it in
much the same way as the baler it replaced?Many
times we fail to take advantage of the advanced features
available on today’s modern equipment, such as
Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System.
As a result the owner may not be getting all the value
from the money spent.
Many of the items suggested in this booklet can be
completed by the owner when preparing for the season
or by the operator when starting a new field. Other
adjustments, service procedures, or repairs might be
more effectively completed by your dealer’s trained
service technicians.

6
SERVICE INSPECTIONS
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
1. Safety decals
2. Flasher lights
3. PTO Shields
4. Safety chain
5. Fire extinguisher?Yes ❍No ❍
PICKUP AREA
1. Pickup assembly, tines, cam track,
cam bearings and augers
2. Pickup drive chain condition and tension
3. Auger drive chains
4. Overrunning clutch function and adjustment
5. Pickup flotation adjustment
6. Stuffer drive chain condition and tension
TIE-OFF SYSTEM
1. Twine knife condition
2. Twine routing tube condition
3. Twine tube breakaway
4. Twine cut-off adjustment mesh wrap
(if equipped)
5. Roller condition
6. Cam bearings
7. Hold-down arm adjustment
8. Brake pad
9. Cut-off knife condition
BALE CHAMBER AND GEAR BOX
1. Gearbox mounting hardware
2. Gearbox oil level (change if after
specified number of bales)
3. Gearbox breather
4. Forming belt and lace condition
5. Starting roll flap condition
6. Starter roll drive chain
7. Sledge roll drive chain
8. Sledge slip clutch
9. Main slip clutch/shear bolt (PTO)
10. Rotor drive chains (if equipped)
11. Roller bearings
12. Bale shape sensing function
MISCELLANEOUS
1. Switches and inductive sensors
(condition and proper clearance)
2. Electrical connections
3. Electrical harness routing/condition
4. Monitor condition/operation
5. Wheel bearings
6. Tires (condition and pressure)
7. Hydraulic lines, valving and
cylinders (conditions and leakage)
8. Operation of kicker (if equipped)
9. Tailgate operation/condition
10. Density system operation/service
(hydraulic system versus spring
tension system)
11. Sheet metal condition
12. Structure - cracks/welds
13. Missing and broken parts
14. Gauges and indicators on front
of machine
Replace/
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Checklist For Your “Walk Around” Inspection

BALER MONITOR FUNCTIONS
7
Manually retracts twine or net actuator
Manually extends twine or net actuator
Display or change pre-set bale diameter
Display or change number of wraps
of twine or net
Increase bale diameter or number
of wraps values
Decrease bale diameter or number
of wraps values
Figure 7.1
Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System
The Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System baler control monitor gives the operator in-cab control
or display of bale size, bale shape, net or twine wrap, number of wraps, wrap pattern, and crop cutter knives.
Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System is required to control net wrapping on the RBX series balers.
The operation of the monitor divides controls into 5 basic areas of function. These functions are illustrated in terms
of touchpad control grouping, identification and control action explanation (see figure 7.1).
Baler Monitor
Turns the Net-Twine Wrapper system on and off
Toggles between system Setup and Diagnostic modes
Toggles between Automatic and Manual
operation of the Wrap system
Toggles between wrapping bales with
Net and Twine
Manually starts wrap cycle
Clears daily bale counts, turn off audible alarm
and error message displays
Toggles between Daily and Total bale counts

8
BALER MONITOR FUNCTIONS
The Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System Monitor display window provides the operator with
indicators for modes of operation (Twine or Net, Automatic, Manual), bale status (Full Bale, Wrap Bale, Eject Bale),
and system status or position (Tailgate latch, Actuator (Twine, Net insertion). Indicator triangles may flash or be
displayed steady depending on the current status of the specific system (see figure 8.1).
The display window format adjusts for each type of information that is placed in view. The more commonly displayed
information is shown, along with the basic keystroke commands that are used to enter the display mode and make
value changes.
Bale Size
•Check Bale Size–press the “Bale Size” button, Bale
Size displayed for 2 seconds after releasing button
(see figure 8.2)
•Change Bale Size–press and hold the “Bale Size”
button, use + and - keys to change size
NOTE: Display returns to previous data 2 seconds after
releasing the Bale Size button.
Number of Net Wraps
• Must be in Net mode
• Displayed in quarter wrap steps (see figure 8.3)
•Check Number of Wraps–press the “Number Wraps”
button, Number of wraps displayed for 2 seconds after
releasing button
•Change Number of Wraps–press and hold the
“Number Wraps” button, use + and - keys
to change Number of Wraps
NOTE: Display returns to previous data 2 seconds after
releasing the Number Wraps button.

9
BALER MONITOR FUNCTIONS
Number of Twine Wraps
In twine wrap mode, three pre-programmed wrap
selections are available standard with the Electronic
Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh Wrap System. The number
of end wraps can be temporarily changed within these
selections, and returns to the pre-programmed number
when the wrap selection is changed. In addition, the
operator can program a custom wrap selection if
the pre-programmed selections are not suitable for a
specific application. The number of wraps is time-
based, and assumes the baler is operating at
Rated PTO RPM during the wrap cycle.
• Must be in Twine mode
• Displayed with wraps on left, end wraps on right
(see figure 9.1)
•Check Number of Wraps–press the “Number
Wraps” button, Number of wraps displayed for
2 seconds after releasing button
•Change Number of Wraps–press and hold
the “Number Wraps” button, use + and - keys
to change Number of Wraps selection
NOTE: Display returns to previous data 2 seconds after
releasing the Number Wraps button.
Change Number of Twine End Wraps
• Must be in Twine mode
• Press and release “Number Wraps” button
(see figure 9.2)
• While display is showing number of wraps,
Press and hold the Number Wraps button
• Display will show only end wraps at right side of
window, use + and - keys to change Number of
End Wraps
NOTE: Display returns to previous data 2 seconds after
releasing the Number Wraps button.
Change to Custom Wrap Pattern
• Must be in Twine mode
•Change to Custom Pattern–press and hold the
“Number Wraps” button, use + and - keys to
change to “PAt 4” selection (see figure 9.3)
• Refer to Operator's Manual and Monitor Setup
section to program custom pattern
NOTE: Display returns to previous data 2 seconds after
releasing the Number Wraps button.
Figure 9.1
Figure 9.2
Figure 9.3
Figure 9.4

BALER MONITOR FUNCTIONS
10
Bale Counts
• To read Daily Bale count–press and release “Bales”
button. Daily count will be displayed for
2 seconds after releasing button
• To read Total Bale count, press and hold “Bales”
button while Daily count is displayed to read Total
Bale count (see figure 9.4)
CLEAR Daily Bale Count
• Press and release “Bales” button. Daily count will
be displayed for 2 seconds after releasing button.
• Press “Clear” button while Daily count is displayed
• Total Bale count CANNOT be cleared
Error Message
• Audible alarm will sound if malfunction occurs and
“Error” message is displayed
• Press “Clear” button to turn audible alarm off
(see figure 10.1)
Figure 10.1
The Electric Controlled Twine Wrap System is a
computerized system that provides the operator with
in-cab bale shape sensor displays, in addition to a full
bale alarm and a complete wrap cycle signal. The system
allows the operator to select from a menu of available
wrap patterns, along with manual twine arm extend
and retract controls (see figure 10.3).
• Electric actuator on the right side of the baler operates
the dual twine arms to apply twine wrap to the bale
(see figure 10.2)
Figure 10.2
Electric-Controlled Twine Wrap System
Figure 10.3
Baler Monitor
EXTEND—Manually
Extended twine arm
RETRACT—Manually
Retract twine arm
NUMBER WRAPS—Select
twine wrap pattern
SETUP/DIAGNOSTICS
—Enter Setup or
Diagnostic Mode
BALE SHAPE—Displays
relative side-to-side
fill/shape of bale
(normal mode). Also
used to display
operating parameters.
ON/OFF —Turns
Operator’s Panel
on and off
STOP/WRAP—Used to
select automatic or
manual operation,
manually start or stop
wrap cycles
AUTO—Red Light indicates
wrapper is in Automatic
Mode

11
BALER MONITOR FUNCTIONS
Full
Bale
Figure 11.2
Figure 11.1
NUMBER
WRAPS TABLE NUMBER OF WRAPS
Model Bale Size Pattern 1 Pattern 2 Pattern 3 Pattern 4
RBX4534X5101418 22
RBX4634X6101418 22
RBX5635X6101418 24
Wrap
Pattern
Bale
Size
Figure 11.3
Figure 11.4
Table 11.1
Table 11.2
Baler Monitor (cont.)
Bale shape indicator is displayed in the normal baler
operation mode.
• Indicators show the right side of bale slightly larger
than left, operator must move to fill the left side of
the bale (see figure 11.1)
The bale shape indicator bars are used to display
additional operational information for the operator.
Full Bale indication. Bars in corner of displays lit when
the “full bale” alarm sounds. After wrap cycle,
indicators reset to no lit bars, indicating bale chamber
is empty (see figure11.2).
Twine wrap pattern (see figure 11.3). Wrap Pattern 3
indicated by 3 bars on each side.
• Displayed when the “Number Wraps” touchpad
is pressed
Diagnostic mode-bale size indicator. 4 X 5 bale size
indicated by 4 bars in left column, 5 bars in right column.
• Displayed when pressing the Setup/Diagnostics
touchpad for two seconds
• Pressing “Setup/Diagnostics” additional times will
access other setup functions such as switch
calibrations (see figure 11.4 and table 11.2).
To change the size of the bale when the “Full Bale”
alarm is sounded, the cam on the full bale switch is
adjusted to obtain the desired bale size (see figure 19.4).
SETUP ITEM USE
1 Select baler model/bale size
2Adjust, calibrate and test twine
wrapper actuator sensor
3 Adjust
and test the full bale switch
4Adjust, calibrate and test the right
bale shape sensor
5Adjust, calibrate and test the left bale
shape sensor

12
BALER OPERATION
Connecting the Baler to the Tractor
Baler performance can be directly affected by certain
tractor adjustments. Prior to connecting the baler to the
tractor, take some time to assure tractor conditions meet
the following standards. Specific details for each step
are in the Operator's Manual.
• Tractor meets minimum size requirements. Consider
rotor-cutter power requirements, if equipped; and
assure the size and weight of the tractor is sufficient
to control the weight of the baler, especially on
grades and inclines (see table 12.1).
• Adjust the tractor tread width so the wheels do not
run over the windrow. Use a tractor with sufficient
ground clearance to prevent crop from snagging
and bunching on the underside of the tractor.
• Refer to figure 12.1 for measurements to assure the
correct drawbar-to-PTO shaft dimensional relationship
position prior to connecting the baler hitch and
PTO shaft.
• Three-point hitch lower arms should be removed if
at all possible to avoid the possibility of driveline
damage due to contact with the hitch arms.
• Install the hitch pin from the bottom up to reduce
crop snagging. Use 1- or 1-1
/ 4" diameter by
6" long pin or bolt. Install the safety chain as
specified before road transport.
• Move the jack to the operation storage position
• Verify the correct PTO shaft length after the baler
hitch is connected to the tractor drawbar. See
instructions in the Operator's Manual to assure
adequate operating clearance.
• Connect the hydraulic hoses to the tractor couplers.
Up to four circuits may be required, depending on
baler features. The hose connector covers are color-
coded for ease of connection:
Black - Double-acting tailgate lift
Green - Single-acting pickup lift circuit
Red - Double-acting crop cutting knife retraction
Blue - Double-acting rotor reverser circuit
• The tractor hydraulics should have a minimum flow
of 9 GPM to assure acceptable tailgate cycle time.
• Make necessary electrical connections for the baler
monitor, as well as transport warning and turn
signal lights (see figure 12.2).
BALER MODEL OPTION MIN PTO HP
RBX443 40
RBX453 60
RBX453 Silage 65
RBX453 Rotor-cutter 100
RBX463 70
RBX553 70
RBX563 80
PICKUP WIDTH MIN INSIDE TIRE CLEARANCE
4' STD 55"
5' STD 70"
1.5 m wide 70"
1.8 m wide 80"
2.1 m wide 92"
Figure 12.1
Table 12.1
356mm (14") FOR 540 RPM
406 mm (16") FOR 1000 RPM
152 to 305 mm (6" to 12")
(203 mm (8") Recommended)
330 to 508 mm (13"to 20")
From ground (381 mm (15")
Recommended)
AT LEAST
25 mm (1")
Figure 12.2
1. Ground
2. Not used
3. Directional, left
4. Brake lights
5. Directional, right
6. Tail lights
7. Not used
3
1
2
4
5
6
7

13
BALER OPERATION
• Refer to the Operator's Manual for correct wiring
connections for the monitor, depending on the type of
tractor electrical system.
• Newer tractors have a mating lighting connector,
with wiring compatible with the baler circuits. Older
tractors may require addition of wiring connections
for proper lighting operation.
Loading Twine
Twine used in a round baler application is less
demanding than that for square balers, however, quality
twine of consistent thickness and strength is important in
maintaining bale integrity, especially with repeated
handling and long-term storage.
One twine box is mounted on each side of the baler.
Twine loading is similar on twine-only and twine-net balers.
• Each box holds three balls of twine
• Thread inside loose end of front ball through
wireform or angle guide above the ball, then
through twine tension clamp
• Thread twine out of front of twine box.
• Twine tension adjusted to 8-12 lb. pull. Twine too
tight may not start properly. Twine too loose may
be loose on bale and may not cut properly.
Route twine around idlers below front end of twine boxes.
• Through twine guide above idler
• Through twine guide below idler (see figure 13.1)
At center of baler, route twine:
• Through ring on bottom side of cross-tube
• Through guide on twine tube mounting bracket
• RBX453 and RBX463 have additional guide on
twine tube (see figure 13.2)
Threading twine out of twine arm:
Units with “bullet” type twine retainer–
• Push bullet retainer bolt toward spring, or push bullet
sideways to create clearance between bullet and ring
• Pass twine between bullet and ring, out end of twine
arm (see figure 13.3)
Units with “spring clip” type twine retainer–
• Feed twine through guide ring approximately 10"
back from end of twine arm
• Make sure twine is under tabs between the ring and
end of twine arm
Figure 13.1 Figure 13.2
Figure 13.3
Figure 13.4

14
BALER OPERATION
BALER
MODEL
BALE
CHAMBER
WIDTH
MAX. WIDTH
OF NET OR
TUBE
MIN WIDTH
OF NET OR
TUBE
RBX453/463 46.5" 52" 44.5"
RBX553/563 61.5" 67" 59.5"
Table 14.1
Figure 14.2
Figure 14.3
Loading Twine (cont.)
• Use the special tool to place twine between spring
clips out the end of the twine arm (see figure 13.4)
• Pull about 18" of twine out of the twine arm
• Place the twine between the twine knife and striker
(see figure 14.1)
Loading Net
Several types of wrapping material can be used with the
RBX series baler wrapping system. Standard width and
wide width net wrap can be used to provide a neat
bale that has a high degree of weather resistance,
and retains bale integrity with repeated handling
and extended storage.
Refer to table 14.1 for net roll and center tube width
specifications. The wrap material must be oriented so the
material comes off the top of the roll when installed in
the baler. The inner diameter of the tube toward the right
side of the baler may require trimming to fit over the
mounting shaft.
When working with the wrap mounting shaft, be aware
that the “Round tooth grippers” on the right end of the
shaft are somewhat sharp, and could cause injury
if contacted carelessly (see figure 14.2).Theseare
designed to grip the cardboard tube to allow proper
function of the net wrap brake that is mounted on
the shaft.
To load net into the baler:
• Rotate the brake drum until the locking pin aligns with
the hole in the drum. Move the locking pin into the hole.
• Release the latch and swing the net roll mounting
shaft outward
• Remove the hairpin cotter, washer and plastic cone
from the left end of the mounting shaft. Rotate the
used core counterclockwise to disengage the
grippers. Remove and discard the core.
• Slide the roll of net onto the shaft with the loose end
coming off the top of the roll. As you slide the roll
of net over the right end of the shaft, rotate the core
counterclockwise to slide over the round tooth
grippers. Slide the net far enough onto the shaft to
center it in the bale chamber, then install the plastic
cone and washer on the left end of the shaft.
• Release lock pin from the brake drum.
Figure 14.1

15
BALER OPERATION
Loading Net (cont.)
To route net from the roll to the net insertion duckbill:
• Free the end of the net on the roll, and pull out
4'-5' of net.
• The net passes over spiral-wrapped spreader rolls
(see figure 14.3). The spirals pull the net outward to
the ends of the bale, pulling the net tight over the
width of the bale. If net is not spread across the full
width of the rolls, it will spread out while wrapping
the first bale. Add an extra wrap on first bale to
allow full width wrapping after the net is spread.
Route the net as shown in figure 15.1:
• Over the smooth roll
• Under the lower spreader roll
• Over the top spreader roll
• Around the front of the center spreader roll
• Into the duckbill
• Use the tool to push the net through the duckbill
• Leave 2"-3" of loose tail of net hanging out from the
bottom of the duckbill. Pull any excess net length
toward the front of the baler, away from the knife.
• Roll the front of the roll down while swinging the
roll back into the baler to take up excess slack in
the net. Latch the roll into the operating position.
• Visually confirm that the roll is centered over the
bale chamber
Make and wrap a bale. Check for even placement of
net across the bale. If the net is wrapped more toward
one side, the net roll must be moved to center the wrap.
• Remove the left and right net roll retaining clips.
Shift the net roll as necessary to center the net.
• Install the clip onto the right end of the shaft in the
groove closest the end of the cardboard tube.
• Move the cone into the left end of the tube. Install
the hairpin clip in the groove that fits best with the
available clearance on the left end.
Figure 15.1
1. Smooth Roll 3. Top Spreader
2. Lower Spreader
1
2
3
CROP FEEDING AND CUTTING FOR PROPER BALE FORMATION
In addition to the visual quality of the bale, the manner in which bales are formed when breaking in a new baler
or belts can have an effect on the overall belt life. Make smaller bales, and use special care to keep bales filled
evenly when baling the first 25-50 bales, to reduce stress that can remain in the belt its entire service life.

16
BALER OPERATION
Pickup
Several factors affect the overall bale shape and integrity,
all related primarily to the manner in which crop is fed
into the baler and processed prior to being moved into
the bale chamber (see figure 16.1).
Key factors are:
• Windrow size, shape and density
• Pickup
• Packer or rotor
• Adjust gauge wheels to carry the pickup. Pickup teeth
should be approximately 1" above the ground on a
level surface. Set gauge wheels lower to provide
more clearance in rocky or uneven field conditions.
• Flotation should be set to keep the pickup contact with the ground as light as possible, while not allowing the
pickup to bounce and leave crop in the field
• Pickup windguard upward travel stops should be adjusted with about 2" clearance to the pickup bands. Higher
volume windrows may require additional clearance; lighter crops require less clearance and greater contact with
the windguard
• Downward travel stops should prevent windguard tines from contacting pickup bands or floor roll
• Upper windguard on wide pickups with stuffer has adjustable stops to maintain minimum clearance to the starter
roll, as explained in the Operator's Manual
Crop centering augers on each side of the pickup are intended to move the edges of the windrow into the feeder
area of the pickup.
• Augers are not intended to “re-position” the windrow to fill the edges of the feeder if windrows are not wide
enough to evenly fill the feeder across the entire bale width
• Excessively wide windrows may overload and plug the pickup augers
Figure 16.1
Core Formation
The core is the center portion of the bale that forms
before the belt tension begins to increase significantly.
Generally, the core is approximately 30" diameter. In
most crops, the core forms easily, however some crops
do not roll readily in the bale chamber, and core
formation may require special baling techniques. Some
of the more challenging core formation conditions are:
• Long-stemmed, slippery, unconditioned dry grasses
or straw
• Heavy double windrows or bunches
• Unconditioned stalky crops such as cane
• Very dry, short crop
• Brittle, slippery crop such as cornstalks
Corrective action to promote core formation:
• For most crops, reduce PTO speed and feed rate to
allow crop to begin to tumble and roll in the baler.
In some conditions, “force feeding” a small amount
of crop may help start the core.
• Maintain PTO speed, but be prepared to stop
movement when in stalky crops such as cane and
corn stalks, until the core is established
• Stop PTO when not feeding crop (such as short
rotary combine straw) into the baler to help retain
bale integrity. (Do not stop PTO with silage, high-
moisture or very heavy crops in the bale chamber).

17
BALER OPERATION
Windrows and Driving Patterns
The operator has the ability to monitor the bale shape
as the bale is formed using the Electric-Controlled Twine
Wrap System or Electronic Auto-Controlled Twine/Mesh
Wrap System baler monitors (see figure 17.1).
The bale shape indicators use bars that move up
progressively relative to the side-to-side fill rate of the
bale chamber. Using the shape indicators allows the
operator to compensate if necessary for uneven or
inconsistent windrows.
Allowing the bale to form heavily on one side will also
affect belt tracking. Flat belts track toward the tight side
of the belt. Therefore, uneven bale formation will be
observed as the belts will move toward the larger side
of the bale. Quickly begin to fill the opposite side and
even out the bale, before the belts are damaged due to
interference and the belts climbing over adjacent belts.
An important fact to remember is that if crop is fed into
the baler unevenly, the bale will likely be uneven and
mis-shapen, as well.
The key to making well-filled and well-shaped bales is to
follow a rule that the windrow, whenever possible, must
be built to suit the baler. Attempting to adapt the baler
to the windrow will usually result in a less-than-
desirable outcome.
The desired windrow width is slightly wider than the
width of the bale. In this condition, the crop centering
augers will move just enough crop to fill the sides of the
bale chamber. The sides of the bale will then be well-
filled and firm (see figure 17.2).
If windrows are not full bale width and uniform, the
desired scenario, the operator must understand the crop
flow into the baler and follow driving patterns to lessen
the affect of the lower quality windrows (see figure 17.3).
If windrows are not full width, narrower windrows,
approximately one-half the width of the bale, are the
next-best option. In this case, weave from side to side
initially to distribute hay across the bale chamber while
forming the bale core (see figure 17.4). Once the core is
formed, alternately feed hay into each side of the baler
to fill the sides of the bale (see figure 17.3).
Watch the bale shape indicator and try to keep the bars
even as the bale is formed. Some operators may want to
change the bale shape alarm sensitivity to better match
windrow size.
Figure 17.1
Figure 17.2
Figure 17.3
Figure 17.4
Figure 17.5
When wrapping with twine, have the baler centered
over the windrow as the bale reaches completion, to
facilitate twine pickup. Using this feeding pattern, the
edges of the bale are filled, along with the center, as
the windrow moves back and forth from side to side
across the pickup.
Weaving continuously, in intervals less than six to eight
seconds, will likely overfill the center of the bale. Loose
end twine wraps will be likely (see figure 17.4).
Medium windrows, approximately three-fourths the
width of the feeder, are the most difficult to bale and
maintain well-shaped bales. Even with weaving, the
center of the bale tends to be over-filled. The edge
twines will likely be loose, and eventual difficulty in
handling is a possibility (see figure 17.5).

BALER OPERATION
18
Rotor-cutter
Crop is moved from the pickup to the starter roll by the
rotor lobes. Incorporated into the bottom of the feeder
of rotor-cutter-equipped units are crop cutter knives
that extend into the rotor area (see figure 18.1).
Crop material is cut as it moves across the knives.
Advantages of Crop Cutting:
• Bale density is increased
• Bales are easier to break apart when feeding
• Silage fermentation is improved as bales pack
tighter, with a greater degree of air removal
The rotor-cutter is available on the RBX453 standard
and Silage models. With the maximum 15 knives in use,
the system will cut material to a theoretical length as
short as 2.6".
• Different knife position combinations can be
selected to change the cut length, or to leave longer
crop at the bale edges for greater bale integrity
• Knife blanks must be installed in unused knife slots
to prevent plugging
• The knives can be hydraulically retracted by the
operator, if desired
• Each knife is mounted individually, with breakaway
protection in the event a heavy slug or solid object
enters the pickup and is passed through the cutter
Density Control
Bale density is a function of crop preparation, windrow
conditions, baling technique, and baler adjustment.
Consider these crop and windrow conditions:
• Crop type, condition, and moisture
• Crop-cutter applications
• Type of crop conditioning, material sizing
• Size, shape of windrow and feed rate
The more time the crop spends in the baler, the greater
the bale density. Movement across the rollers as the
bale rotates presses more air from the crop mat, and
allows crop to “settle” together, resulting in a tighter
bale. Fast feed rates and short cycle times, a common
occurrence with large windrows, will result in lower bale
density. The importance of cycle time productivity, in-
field crop loss and bale density must be balanced by
the operator to achieve the most desirable outcome.
Some dry grass hay will be broken by the dimpled roll
and fall out of the bale chamber if allowed to remain in
the bale chamber longer than necessary.
Bale density is controlled by spring tension, or a
combination of spring tension and hydraulic resistance.
• RBX443–2-double extension spring assemblies
• RBX463–2 extension springs, 1 hydraulic cylinder
• RBX453–1 extension spring, 1 hydraulic cylinder
• RBX553/RBX563–2 extension springs,
2 hydraulic cylinders
The springs hold tension on the belts when the baler is
empty, and provide the tension during core formation.
As the bale grows and the chamber begins to expand,
the effect of the hydraulic density control supplements
spring tension, and provides the controllable element in
belt tension and bale density.
Figure 18.1

19
BALER OPERATION
Figure 19.1
Figure 19.3
Figure 19.2
Bale Size
Bale size is adjusted in either of two ways:
• Balers with Electric-Controlled Twine Wrap System–
to change the size of the bale when the “Full Bale”
alarm is sounded, the cam on the full bale switch is
adjusted to obtain the desired bale size (see figure
19.4).
• Balers equipped with Electronic Auto-Controlled
Twine/Mesh Wrap System–set bale size
electronically using the baler monitor
ALFALFA GRASS HAY STRAW SILAGE
RBX453 110 - 152 Bar 110 - 172 Bar 83 - 138 Bar 103 - 158 Bar
1600 - 2200 PSI 1600 - 2500 PSI 1200 - 2000 PSI 1500 - 2300 PSI
RBX463 110 -152 Bar 110 - 172 Bar 83 - 138 Bar 103 - 158 Bar
1600 - 2200 PSI 1600 - 2500 PSI 1200 - 2000 PSI 1500 - 2300 PSI
RBX553 90 - 138 Bar 90 - 138 Bar 69 - 110 Bar
1300 - 2000 PSI 1300 - 2000 PSI 1000 - 1600 PSI
RBX563 90 - 138 Bar 90 - 138 Bar 69 - 110 Bar
1300 - 2000 PSI 1300 - 2000 PSI 1000 - 1600 PSI
Table 19.1
Figure 19.4
Density Setting Recommendations
1. Bale Size Adjustment
1
Density Control (cont.)
The hydraulic density control system consists of a self-
contained hydraulic cylinder with an adjustable relief
valve between the two ends of the cylinder. The cylinder
is connected to the belt tension arm, which carries the
front and rear take-up rolls.
The tension arm must move to allow the bale chamber
to expand as the bale is formed. By restricting the flow
of oil from one end of the cylinder to the other, the
cylinder restricts the movement of the belt tension arm,
controlling the belt tension, and thus the density of the
bale (see figure 19.1).
• The pressure gauge on the front of the baler registers
the density system pressure (see figure 19.3)
• Raise the tailgate to the top of its travel. The tension
arm will be pulled up the same as if a bale were
forming. Read the density system pressure.
• Turning the density valve knob clockwise increases
the restriction to oil flow, with a corresponding
increase of bale density (see figure 19.2).
• Turning the valve counterclockwise reduces flow
restriction, along with bale density.

20
MAINTENANCE
Lubricate Daily with Grease
Twine Tube Pivots
Front PTO Driveline U-joint and Shields
Belt Drive Declutch RBX463/RBX563*
LH Sledge Pivot
Driveshaft Bearing
LH Rotor Shaft
* Grease Bank
Lubricate Daily with SAE
10W-30 Engine Oil
Wide Pickup LH Chain Case
Pickup Jackshaft Drive Chain (Rotor)
Pickup Drive Chain
Floor Roll Drive Chain
Starter Roll Drive Chain
Stationary Dimpled Roll Drive Chain
Belts Drive Chain
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
1
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
12
13
11
Daily Lubrication
The RBX baler is provided with grease fittings to lubricate bearings in the various drives. Some are lubricated by
tubes leading from grease banks to remote grease points. Until the operator is familiar with the location of all grease and
lubrication points, it is advisable to use the Operator's Manual as a guide to assure complete lubrication service.
3