MacDon Swath Compressor Guide

Swath Compressor
for M1 Series Windrowers
Setup, Operation, and Parts Manual
214286 Revision C
2017 Model Year
Original Instruction
The harvesting specialists.

Swath Compressor for M1 Series Windrowers
Published: July 2017

List of Revisions
At MacDon, we’re continuously making improvements, and occasionally these improvements affect product
documentation. The following list provides an account of major changes from the previous version of this
document.
Summary of Change Location
Added sentence that swath compressor was designed
to work with D Series draper headers cutting canola.
Introduction, page iii
Added steps to use a forklift when removing the
forming shield from shipping crate.
2.1 Removing Swath Compressor from Shipping Crate,
page 11
The following changes were made to the Installing
Swath Compressor topic:
•Added steps to manage air cleaner support
•Added steps to install washers between rear left/
right supports and windrower frame
•Added step to secure fuel filter sensor wire
•Added steps and images (specific to M1170) to
route hydraulics under windrower frame
•Added steps to route hydraulic hoses under oil
filters
•Add step to secure hose sheath with cable ties
•Added step to drive windrower into position overtop
of forming shield
•Added steps to move the side deflectors into
working position
•Added step recommending the use of two installers
when lifting/connecting rear corner of shield
2.2 Installing Swath Compressor on M1 Series
Windrower, page 15
Added information that swath compressor down force
is factory set to minimum.
3.2.3 Adjusting Down Force, page 32
•Added information that header with swath
compressor icon is not displayed when no header is
attached
•Added step to raise swath compressor and engage
lock when in engine forward mode or not in use
3.2.5 Operating the Swath Compressor Lock, page 34
Added sentence: Do NOT sit on a lowered forming
shield.
3.3 Removing the Swath Forming Shield, page 35
214286 iRevision C

Summary of Change Location
Changed the following items in the Parts List:
•MD #136095 replaced by MD #136144
•Added MD #30635 x 2
•Added MD #21763 x 1
•Added MD #30753 x 2
4.2 Swath Compressor Hydraulics and Supports –
Parts List, page 42
Revised the Predelivery Checklist. Predelivery Checklist, page 59
214286 ii Revision C

Introduction
The MacDon Swath Compressor is a large, formed polyethylene sheet which is designed to mount to the underside
of a MacDon M1 Series Windrower. The MacDon Swath Compressor is designed for use with D Series Draper
Headers cutting canola.
When lowered, the swath compressor shapes the windrow and anchors it into the stubble behind the header using
a smooth, gradual transition that helps prevent shelling in ripe conditions. Too much compression by a swath
compressor or roller can increase losses from crop shelling, and may increase dry-down time; inadequate
compression can leave a windrow prone to wind damage.
The swath compressor height can be adjusted and monitored with the cab display. Height can be adjusted for crop
ripeness, yield, and the amount of compression required. The swath compressor will automatically lift up if an
Operator stops and reverses the windrower.
NOTE:
A preferred height can be saved under a One-Touch-Return preset.
When setting up the machine or making adjustments, review and follow the recommended machine settings in all
relevant MacDon publications. Failure to do so may compromise machine function and machine life and may result
in a hazardous situation.
MacDon provides warranty for Customers who operate and maintain their equipment as described in this manual. A
copy of the MacDon Industries Limited Warranty Policy, which explains this warranty, should have been provided to
you by your Dealer. Damage resulting from any of the following conditions will void the warranty:
•Accident
•Misuse
•Abuse
•Improper maintenance or neglect
•Abnormal or extraordinary use of the machine
•Failure to use the machine, equipment, component, or part in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
NOTE:
Keep your MacDon publications up-to-date. The most current version can be downloaded from our website www.
macdon.com or from our Dealer-only site (https://portal.macdon.com) (login required).
This manual is currently available in the English language only.
Conventions
M1 Series Windrowers are Dual Direction®, meaning the windrower can be driven in cab-forward or engine-forward
modes. When referencing specific locations on the machine, this manual always assumes a cab-forward direction
when using the terms right and left.
214286 iii Revision C

214286 vRevision C
List of Revisions .........................................................................................................................................i
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................. iii
Chapter 1: Safety .................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Safety Alert Symbols ............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Signal Words .......................................................................................................................................2
1.3 General Safety.....................................................................................................................................3
1.4 Maintenance Safety .............................................................................................................................5
1.5 Hydraulic Safety...................................................................................................................................6
1.6 Welding Precaution ..............................................................................................................................7
1.7 Safety Signs ........................................................................................................................................8
1.7.1 Installing Safety Decals ...............................................................................................................8
1.8 Safety Sign Decals...............................................................................................................................9
Chapter 2: Assembly Instructions.................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Removing Swath Compressor from Shipping Crate .............................................................................. 11
2.2 Installing Swath Compressor on M1 Series Windrower .........................................................................15
Chapter 3: Operation ........................................................................................................................... 27
3.1 Activating the Swath Compressor........................................................................................................27
3.2 Operating the Swath Compressor........................................................................................................29
3.2.1 Setting up the Swath Compressor ..............................................................................................31
3.2.2 Programming One-Touch-Return................................................................................................32
3.2.3 Adjusting Down Force ...............................................................................................................32
3.2.4 Adjusting Side Deflectors ...........................................................................................................33
3.2.5 Operating the Swath Compressor Lock .......................................................................................34
3.3 Removing the Swath Forming Shield ...................................................................................................35
Chapter 4: Parts .................................................................................................................................... 37
4.1 Swath Compressor Frame –Parts List.................................................................................................38
4.2 Swath Compressor Hydraulics and Supports –Parts List ......................................................................42
4.3 Decals...............................................................................................................................................46
Chapter 5: Reference ........................................................................................................................... 49
5.1 Torque Specifications .........................................................................................................................49
5.1.1 Metric Bolt Specifications ...........................................................................................................49
5.1.2 Metric Bolt Specifications Bolting into Cast Aluminum ..................................................................51
5.1.3 O-Ring Boss (ORB) Hydraulic Fittings (Adjustable) ......................................................................52
5.1.4 O-Ring Boss (ORB) Hydraulic Fittings (Non-Adjustable)...............................................................54
5.1.5 O-Ring Face Seal (ORFS) Hydraulic Fittings ...............................................................................55
5.1.6 Tapered Pipe Thread Fittings .....................................................................................................56
5.2 Conversion Chart...............................................................................................................................57
TABLE OF CONTENTS

214286 vi Revision C
Predelivery Checklist........................................................................................................................... 59
Index......................................................................................................................................................... 61
TABLE OF CONTENTS

214286 1Revision C
1 Safety
1.1 Safety Alert Symbols
Figure 1.1: Safety Symbol
This safety alert symbol indicates important safety
messages in this manual and on safety signs on
the machine.
This symbol means:
•ATTENTION!
•BECOME ALERT!
•YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
Carefully read and follow the safety message
accompanying this symbol.
Why is safety important to you?
•Accidents disable and kill
•Accidents cost
•Accidents can be avoided

214286 2Revision C
1.2 Signal Words
Three signal words, DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION, are used to alert you to hazardous situations. The
appropriate signal word for each situation has been selected using the following guidelines:
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
It may be used to alert against unsafe practices.
SAFETY

214286 3Revision C
1.3 General Safety
Figure 1.2: Safety Equipment
CAUTION
The following are general farm safety precautions that
should be part of your operating procedure for all types
of machinery.
Protect yourself.
•When assembling, operating, and servicing machinery,
wear all protective clothing and personal safety devices
that could be necessary for job at hand. Do NOT take
chances. You may need the following:
•Hard hat
•Protective footwear with slip resistant soles
•Protective glasses or goggles
•Heavy gloves
•Wet weather gear
•Respirator or filter mask
Figure 1.3: Safety Equipment
•Be aware that exposure to loud noises can cause hearing
impairment or loss. Wear suitable hearing protection
devices such as earmuffs or ear plugs to help protect
against loud noises.
Figure 1.4: Safety Equipment
•Provide a first aid kit for use in case of emergencies.
•Keep a fire extinguisher on the machine. Be sure fire
extinguisher is properly maintained. Be familiar with its
proper use.
•Keep young children away from machinery at all times.
•Be aware that accidents often happen when Operator is
tired or in a hurry. Take time to consider safest way.
Never ignore warning signs of fatigue.
SAFETY

214286 4Revision C
Figure 1.5: Safety around Equipment
•Wear close-fitting clothing and cover long hair. Never
wear dangling items such as scarves or bracelets.
•Keep all shields in place. NEVER alter or remove safety
equipment. Make sure driveline guards can rotate
independently of shaft and can telescope freely.
•Use only service and repair parts made or approved by
equipment manufacturer. Substituted parts may not meet
strength, design, or safety requirements.
Figure 1.6: Safety around Equipment
•Keep hands, feet, clothing, and hair away from moving
parts. NEVER attempt to clear obstructions or objects
from a machine while engine is running.
•Do NOT modify machine. Unauthorized modifications
may impair machine function and/or safety. It may also
shorten machine’s life.
•To avoid bodily injury or death from unexpected startup of
machine, ALWAYS stop the engine and remove the key
from the ignition before leaving the operator’s seat for
any reason.
Figure 1.7: Safety around Equipment
•Keep service area clean and dry. Wet or oily floors are
slippery. Wet spots can be dangerous when working with
electrical equipment. Be sure all electrical outlets and
tools are properly grounded.
•Keep work area well lit.
•Keep machinery clean. Straw and chaff on a hot engine is
a fire hazard. Do NOT allow oil or grease to accumulate
on service platforms, ladders, or controls. Clean
machines before storage.
•NEVER use gasoline, naphtha, or any volatile material for
cleaning purposes. These materials may be toxic and/or
flammable.
•When storing machinery, cover sharp or extending
components to prevent injury from accidental contact.
SAFETY

214286 5Revision C
1.4 Maintenance Safety
Figure 1.8: Safety around Equipment
To ensure your safety while maintaining machine:
•Review operator’s manual and all safety items before
operation and/or maintenance of machine.
•Place all controls in Neutral, stop the engine, set the park
brake, remove the ignition key, and wait for all moving
parts to stop before servicing, adjusting, and/or repairing.
•Follow good shop practices:
–Keep service areas clean and dry
–Be sure electrical outlets and tools are properly
grounded
–Use adequate lighting for job at hand
Figure 1.9: Equipment NOT Safe for Children
•Relieve pressure from hydraulic circuits before servicing
and/or disconnecting machine.
•Make sure all components are tight and that steel lines,
hoses, and couplings are in good condition before
applying pressure to hydraulic systems.
•Keep hands, feet, clothing, and hair away from all
moving and/or rotating parts.
•Clear area of bystanders, especially children, when
carrying out any maintenance, repairs, or adjustments.
•Install transport lock or place safety stands under frame
before working under machine.
•If more than one person is servicing machine at same
time, be aware that rotating a driveline or other
mechanically-driven component by hand (for example,
accessing a lube fitting) will cause drive components in
other areas (belts, pulleys, and knives) to move. Stay
clear of driven components at all times.
Figure 1.10: Safety Equipment
•Wear protective gear when working on machine.
•Wear heavy gloves when working on knife components.
SAFETY

214286 6Revision C
1.5 Hydraulic Safety
Figure 1.11: Testing for Hydraulic Leaks
•Always place all hydraulic controls in Neutral before
dismounting.
•Make sure that all components in hydraulic system are
kept clean and in good condition.
•Replace any worn, cut, abraded, flattened, or crimped
hoses and steel lines.
•Do NOT attempt any makeshift repairs to hydraulic lines,
fittings, or hoses by using tapes, clamps, cements, or
welding. The hydraulic system operates under extremely
high pressure. Makeshift repairs will fail suddenly and
create hazardous and unsafe conditions.
Figure 1.12: Hydraulic Pressure Hazard
•Wear proper hand and eye protection when searching for
high-pressure hydraulic leaks. Use a piece of cardboard
as a backstop instead of hands to isolate and identify
a leak.
•If injured by a concentrated high-pressure stream of
hydraulic fluid, seek medical attention immediately.
Serious infection or toxic reaction can develop from
hydraulic fluid piercing the skin.
Figure 1.13: Safety around Equipment
•Make sure all components are tight and steel lines,
hoses, and couplings are in good condition before
applying pressure to a hydraulic system.
SAFETY

214286 7Revision C
1.6 Welding Precaution
Welding should never be attempted on the attachment while it is connected to a windrower.
WARNING
Severe damage to sensitive, expensive electronics can result from welding on the attachment while it is
connected to the windrower. It is impossible to know what effect high current could have with regard to
future malfunctions or shorter lifespan. It is very important that welding to the attachment frame is not
attempted while connected to the windrower.
If an Operator needs to weld to the attachment frame, it should be removed from the windrower.
If the attachment can not be removed from the windrower, refer to the windrower’s technical manual for welding
precautions detailing electrical components that must be disconnected before welding.
SAFETY

214286 8Revision C
1.7 Safety Signs
Figure 1.14: Operator’s Manual Decal
•Keep safety signs clean and legible at all times.
•Replace safety signs that are missing or become illegible.
•If original parts on which a safety sign was installed are
replaced, be sure repair part also bears current
safety sign.
•Replacement safety signs are available from your Dealer
Parts Department.
1.7.1 Installing Safety Decals
1. Clean and dry installation area.
2. Decide on exact location before you remove decal backing paper.
3. Remove smaller portion of split backing paper.
4. Place sign in position and slowly peel back remaining paper, smoothing sign as it is applied.
5. Prick small air pockets with a pin and smooth out.
SAFETY

214286 9Revision C
1.8 Safety Sign Decals
Figure 1.15: MD #184372
MD #184372
General hazard pertaining to machine operation and
servicing.
CAUTION
•Read the operator’s manual and follow all safety
instructions. If you do not have a manual, obtain one
from your Dealer.
•Do not allow untrained persons to operate the machine.
•Review safety instructions with all Operators every year.
•Ensure that all safety signs are installed and legible.
•Make certain everyone is clear of machine before
starting engine and during operation.
•Keep riders off the machine.
•Keep all shields in place and stay clear of moving parts.
•Disengage header drive, put transmission in Neutral,
and wait for all movement to stop before leaving
operator’s position.
•Stop the engine and remove the key from ignition before
servicing, adjusting, lubricating, cleaning, or unplugging
machine.
•Engage locks to prevent lowering of header or reel
before servicing in the raised position.
•Use slow moving vehicle emblem and flashing warning
lights when operating on roadways unless prohibited
by law.
Figure 1.16: MD #166466
MD #166466
HIGH PRESSURE HYDRAULICS
DO NOT GO NEAR LEAKS
•High pressure oil easily punctures skin causing serious
injury, gangrene or death.
•If injured, seek emergency medical help. Immediate
surgery is required to remove oil.
•Do not use finger or skin to check for leaks.
•Lower load or relieve hydraulic pressure before loosening
fittings.
SAFETY

214286 10 Revision C
Figure 1.17: MD #174683
MD #174683
PINCH POINT - MOVING PARTS
STAND CLEAR
Figure 1.18: MD #291638
MD #291638
LOCK - SWATH COMPRESSOR DECK
•Engage lock when swath compressor is not in use.
•Lock forming shield before servicing or working under
the windrower.
•Lock forming shield before travelling in engine
forward mode.
SAFETY

214286 11 Revision C
2 Assembly Instructions
2.1 Removing Swath Compressor from Shipping Crate
Follow these steps to unpack the swath compressor from the shipping crate. Retain all parts for installation unless
instructed to discard.
Figure 2.1: Shipping Configuration
1. Remove the top cross members (A) from shipping crate
and discard.
Figure 2.2: Removing Front Deflector
2. Remove four bolts (A) securing deflector (B) to left and
right supports, and remove deflector (B).

214286 12 Revision C
Figure 2.3: Removing Front Pivot Support
3. Remove four bolts and nuts (A) and remove two bar
clamps (B) from front pivot support (C).
Figure 2.4: Removing Front Pivot Support
4. On both sides of the front pivot support (A), remove
bolts and nuts (B) securing support (A) to the left and
right supports.
5. Remove hairpins (C) from pivot pins (D). Slide pivot
pins outward to disengage from side supports, and then
remove front pivot support (A).
Figure 2.5: Removing Left Support
6. Remove nut and bolt (A) and remove pivot pin (B) from
the left support.
NOTE:
If necessary, loosen handle (C) and adjust deflector so
pin (B) can be removed.
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS