John Deere Introduces Round Baling Automation to Improve Efficiency and Bale Quality

John Deere has launched a new weave automation for select round balers, a feature designed to streamline the baling process and reduce reliance on operator skill.

The automation allows operators to simply position the windrow between the front tires of the tractor, letting the baler handle the weaving process. This addition builds upon existing gate and speed automation, which already automates stopping, wrapping and ejecting bales when they reach full size.

“Gone are the days where operators must weave a tractor during the baling process to ensure quality bale shape while not driving over windrows,” Kaylene Ballesteros, John Deere go-to-market manager for hay and forage equipment said.

“Weave automation allows the baler to align with the tractor’s movements to effectively cover windrows of varying shapes and sizes.”

The new system features a weaving hitch that swings +38 degrees from left to right, improving feeding efficiency while minimizing contamination from debris caused by driving over windrows. The increased maneuverability also allows bales to be positioned in a way that reduces the risk of rolling on uneven terrain, enhancing both operator safety and productivity.

“To some, the traditional baling process can be frustrating due to the weaving needed to ensure a quality bale,” Ballesteros said.

“Weave automation mitigates the need for manual correction and is an easy-to-use feature that provides consistent quality bales, no matter the operator’s expertise level.”

The new automation is expected to help farmers and hay producers improve efficiency while ensuring uniform bale shape, regardless of field conditions or operator experience.