Every minute counts when the sun is beating down, and you have acres of hay to bale. A broken belt brings everything to a grinding halt, and waiting for a repair service or buying a whole new belt eats into your time and profits. Learning to splice your own round hay baler belts is a practical skill that keeps your operation moving. Keep reading, and we’ll show you what you need to DIY round hay baler belt splicing.
Tools of the Trade
You need the right gear before you start cutting. Gather a sharp utility knife or a dedicated belt cutter to cut clean, straight edges. You also need a belt skiver to thin the belt ends, which helps create a smooth, low-profile splice.
This is where you reap the benefits of owning high tensile steel lacing tools. High-quality belt lacing or fasteners specifically designed for your baler model are essential. Finally, grab a hammer, a vice or installation tool for the fasteners, and some connecting pins. This is everything you’ll need to DIY round hay baler belt splicing.
Preparing the Belt
A strong splice starts with preparation. Remove the damaged belt from the baler and lay it on a flat, sturdy surface. Inspect the entire length for other signs of wear; if the belt is rotting or cracking in multiple places, a splice might only be a temporary fix.
Measure the length carefully. You want the repaired belt to match the tension of the other belts in the machine. Clean the area where you plan to cut. Dirt and grease interfere with the splice, so wipe the rubber down thoroughly.
The Splicing Process
Cut the damaged section out of the belt. Make sure your cut is perfectly square. A crooked cut causes the belt to track poorly and wear out faster. If you are using a skiver, thin the top layer of the belt ends to keep the fasteners flush with the belt surface.
Position your fasteners on the belt end. If you use a vice-held installation tool, align the belt squarely in the jaws. Hammer the fasteners in securely, confirming that the teeth bite deeply into the rubber carcass without bending. Repeat this process for the other end of the belt and finish by meshing the metal loops together.
Finishing the Job
Slide the connecting pin through the meshed loops. This pin acts as the hinge for your splice. Trim any excess cable from the pin to prevent it from catching on the baler internals.
Check the splice for flexibility; it should bend easily around the rollers. Reinstall the belt on the baler and double-check the routing diagram to verify you thread it correctly. Tension the belts and run the baler empty for a few minutes to confirm it tracks straight.
Keep Baling
Mastering this repair enables you to resolve issues in the field. You control your schedule instead of waiting on a professional. Regular maintenance extends the life of your splices, so check them periodically for worn pins or loose fasteners. With a few tools and a bit of practice, you turn a major breakdown into a minor delay.
