By Farm Progress staff

Maybe your old mower or hay rake was down for repairs more times than you liked this past season. Or maybe you just can’t justify putting more money into repairs, which it will likely need before this season. If you’re going to shop for a different mower or hay rake, check out these new products from companies with long histories in the haymaking business before your final decision on which product would be your best investment for the future.

Claas, Case, New Holland, Hesston and Vermeer all displayed new mowers for cutting hay at recent farm shows. There are differences in sizes available and what each machine is designed to do. Some, such as Vermeer’s trail mower series, is offered for those who just want to mow hay and aren’t concerned with conditioning it as well. Others offer a combination product for hay growers who need to mow and condition at the same time.

Case promotes quick changing of blades on its newest model of mower/conditioner. Time required for routine maintenance and repairs comes into play, especially if you plan to keep the mower for a long time.

Both Kubota and Rowse offer new entries in the hay raking and turning market. Know what your specific needs are before you go shopping for new hay raking, tedding and turning equipment. Use the contact information provided with these new products to help track down more information from various companies.