John Deere 560M Round Baler Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Getting Started with Your 560M Baler
Understanding This Manual and Its Importance
This manual is your key to unlocking the full potential of your John Deere 560M Round Baler. It's more than just a collection of instructions; it's a comprehensive guide designed to help you operate, maintain, and troubleshoot your baler effectively. Consider this manual your constant companion in the field, ready to answer your questions and guide you through various procedures. Ignoring the information within this manual could lead to inefficient operation, premature wear, costly repairs, or even hazardous situations, so take the time to familiarize yourself with its contents before heading out to the field. Proper understanding of the manual ensures not only peak performance but also a safer and more productive hay baling experience.
Throughout this manual, you will find detailed explanations, diagrams, and illustrations that clarify complex procedures and technical information. We have strived to present this information in a clear and concise manner, but it's important to read carefully and completely. Refer to the table of contents and index to quickly locate specific topics. Whenever you encounter a new or unfamiliar task, consult the relevant section of the manual before proceeding. Remember, a little preparation and understanding can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run. Treat this manual as an investment in the longevity and performance of your John Deere 560M Round Baler.
Safety Precautions: A Must-Read Before Operating
Before you even think about starting the engine, understanding and adhering to the safety precautions outlined in this manual is paramount. Hay baling operations involve powerful machinery and potentially hazardous conditions. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury or even death. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and sturdy work boots. This equipment acts as the first line of defense against potential hazards and minimizes the risk of injury during operation and maintenance procedures. Remember, your safety is non-negotiable.
Never attempt to service or repair the baler while it is running or the engine is still hot. Always disengage the PTO, shut off the engine, and remove the key before performing any maintenance or adjustments. Ensure that the baler is properly supported and stabilized before working underneath it. Be aware of pinch points, moving parts, and potential entanglement hazards. Keep bystanders and animals away from the operating area. Never allow untrained individuals to operate the baler. By diligently following these safety precautions, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe working environment for yourself and those around you.
Pay close attention to the safety decals affixed to the baler itself. These decals serve as visual reminders of potential hazards and provide essential safety information. If any decals are missing or damaged, replace them immediately. In addition to the precautions mentioned above, always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. Maintain a clean and organized work area to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Regularly inspect the baler for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and address any issues promptly. Proactive safety measures are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe and productive baling season.
Baler Specifications: Understanding the 560M Model
Familiarizing yourself with the specific technical specifications of your John Deere 560M Round Baler is essential for optimal performance and proper maintenance. Knowing the baler's dimensions, weight, capacity, and power requirements will help you match it to your tractor and operating conditions. Understanding the baler's key components, such as the pickup, feeding system, bale chamber, and wrapping system, will allow you to diagnose and troubleshoot potential problems more effectively. The specifications provide a foundation for understanding how each component contributes to the overall baling process.
Pay particular attention to the recommended operating speeds, pressures, and settings for various crop conditions. Operating the baler outside of these parameters can lead to reduced efficiency, increased wear and tear, and even damage to the machine. The manual will provide detailed specifications on everything from PTO speed to hydraulic pressure. Understanding the net wrap and twine requirements is also important for achieving optimal bale density and shape. These specifications will also help in selecting the correct replacement parts when maintenance is required.
The 560M model utilizes advanced technology and design features to enhance its performance and reliability. These features include, but are not limited to, a durable bale chamber design, an efficient wrapping system, and user-friendly controls. Understanding how these features function and interact with each other is crucial for maximizing the baler's potential. Knowing the specification such as the size of bale that it produces, or the amount of netwrap needed to perform, is key to maintaining the baler. By studying the specifications of the 560M, you can gain a deeper understanding of its capabilities and optimize its performance for your specific needs.
Operating Your John Deere 560M
Pre-Operation Checks and Adjustments
Before you even think about hitching up your John Deere 560M round baler, a thorough pre-operation check is absolutely crucial. This isn't just a suggestion; it's the key to preventing costly breakdowns, ensuring optimal performance, and most importantly, maintaining a safe working environment. Start by visually inspecting all belts for signs of wear, cracking, or fraying. Replace any belts that show significant damage. Next, check all bearings for proper lubrication. A dry bearing is a failing bearing. Grease them according to the maintenance schedule outlined elsewhere in this manual. Lastly, and this is vital, inspect all safety shields and guards. Ensure they are securely in place and function as intended. Missing or damaged guards are a serious safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.
Proper adjustments are just as important as visual inspections. Double-check the pickup teeth for any damage or missing tines. Bent or missing teeth will negatively impact your ability to effectively gather crop from the field. Adjust the pickup height to match the crop conditions. If you are working in heavy crop, you may need to raise the pickup slightly to prevent plugging. For lighter crops, lower the pickup to ensure you're gathering everything. Finally, ensure that the bale monitor system is functioning correctly. This system provides critical feedback during the baling process, allowing you to make adjustments as needed to create consistent, high-quality bales.
Starting and Stopping the Baler
Starting the baler correctly ensures a smooth and efficient operation. Before engaging the PTO, ensure the baler is properly hitched and all hydraulic connections are secure. Make sure the area around the baler is clear of obstructions and personnel. Slowly engage the PTO to gradually bring the baler up to its operating speed. Avoid sudden engagement, as this can cause excessive wear and tear on the PTO shaft and the baler's internal components. Monitor the baler's operating speed on the tractor's tachometer and maintain the recommended RPM range as specified in this manual. Consistent speed helps maintain consistent bale formation.
Stopping the baler requires just as much attention as starting it. Disengage the PTO smoothly, allowing the baler to come to a complete stop before dismounting the tractor. Never dismount the tractor while the PTO is engaged. Once the baler has stopped, ensure the parking brake is engaged on the tractor to prevent accidental movement. If you're stopping for an extended period, such as overnight, disconnect the baler from the tractor and store it in a safe and level location. This will help prevent damage from weather or accidental contact. Remember to always follow these procedures to maintain safety and prolong the life of your equipment.
Making a Bale: Step-by-Step Instructions
Forming a good bale starts with understanding the material you are baling. Different crops require different settings. Enter the field at a slow and steady speed, allowing the pickup to gently gather the crop. Avoid sudden turns or rapid changes in speed, as these can cause uneven feeding and affect bale density. Maintain a straight line while baling to ensure a consistent bale shape. Listen to the sound of the baler. Any unusual noises could indicate a problem with the pickup, belts, or other components.
As the bale forms, monitor the bale size and density on the bale monitor. Make small adjustments to your speed and tractor's PTO setting to maintain the desired bale density. Once the bale reaches the desired size, the monitor will indicate that it's time to wrap. Engage the wrapping mechanism, following the specific instructions for your type of wrapping material (twine or net wrap). Ensure the wrap is applied evenly across the bale's surface to provide maximum protection from the elements. Keep an eye on your wrapping material supply so you aren't caught short.
Adjusting Bale Density and Size
Adjusting bale density and size is critical for producing bales that meet your specific needs and storage requirements. The John Deere 560M typically uses hydraulic pressure to control bale density. Increasing the hydraulic pressure will result in a tighter, denser bale, which is ideal for crops that tend to be springy or difficult to compress. Decreasing the pressure will create a looser, less dense bale, which may be preferred for crops that need to breathe to prevent spoilage. Refer to the baler's hydraulic pressure gauge and the recommended settings in this manual for guidance.
Bale size is usually controlled by an electronic setting on the baler's monitor. You can adjust the desired bale diameter in inches or centimeters, depending on the monitor's settings. Keep in mind that larger bales will require more horsepower to handle and transport, while smaller bales may be more manageable for smaller operations. Experiment with different size and density settings until you find the combination that works best for your crop and your equipment. Remember to record your settings for future reference. Consistency is key to producing uniform, high-quality bales.
Ejecting the Bale: Safe and Efficient Procedures
Ejecting the bale is the final step in the baling process, and it requires careful attention to safety to prevent accidents. Always choose a level, stable area to eject the bale. Avoid ejecting bales on steep slopes or near obstacles that could cause the bale to roll or become damaged. Before activating the bale ejection mechanism, ensure that no one is standing behind the baler. The bale can weigh hundreds or even thousands of pounds and can cause serious injury if it rolls onto someone.
Once the area is clear, engage the bale ejection mechanism according to the baler's instructions. The bale will typically roll out the back of the baler and onto the ground. After the bale has been ejected, inspect the area around the baler to ensure there are no loose straps, net wrap, or other debris that could pose a hazard. Take extra care with straps as they can be a hazard to livestock if left in the field. Once you are satisfied that the area is clear, you can resume baling. Following these safe ejection procedures will help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth and efficient baling operation.
Working in Different Crop Conditions
The John Deere 560M is a versatile machine, but optimal performance depends on understanding how to adjust the baler to different crop conditions. In dry, brittle crops, reduce the pickup speed to prevent shattering and leaf loss. You may also need to increase the bale density to compensate for the lower moisture content. In wet or damp crops, increase the pickup speed to prevent plugging and ensure the crop is fed evenly into the baler. You may also need to decrease the bale density to allow the crop to breathe and prevent spoilage.
When baling in uneven terrain, be extra cautious when making turns. Avoid sharp turns that could cause the baler to tip over or damage the pickup. Adjust the tractor's speed to maintain a consistent flow of crop into the baler, even when traveling uphill or downhill. If you are working in rocky or stony fields, be sure to frequently inspect the pickup for damage. Stones can bend or break pickup teeth, which will reduce the baler's effectiveness. Regularly clean out any accumulated debris from the baler to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance. By adapting your baling techniques to the specific crop conditions, you can maximize the efficiency and longevity of your John Deere 560M round baler.
Maintenance and Service Procedures
Regular Maintenance Schedule
A consistent maintenance schedule is paramount to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your John Deere 560M Round Baler. Ignoring routine maintenance can lead to costly repairs and unnecessary downtime during critical baling seasons. The following schedule outlines key maintenance tasks and their recommended intervals. Always consult your operator's manual for the specific maintenance requirements for your model, as schedules can vary slightly based on year of manufacture and field conditions. Adhering to this schedule not only prevents breakdowns but also helps maintain the baler's resale value.
Before each use, a thorough visual inspection is essential. Check for any loose bolts, damaged components, or leaking fluids. Inspect all belts for wear and tear, ensuring they are properly tensioned. Verify that all guards and shields are in place and securely fastened. This pre-operation check minimizes the risk of accidents and helps identify potential problems before they escalate. Remember, a few minutes spent inspecting the baler before operation can save hours of repair time later.
Lubrication Points and Procedures
Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of any mechanical system, and the John Deere 560M Round Baler is no exception. Identifying and lubricating all grease fittings according to the recommended schedule is critical for minimizing friction and wear on moving parts. Refer to the lubrication chart in your operator's manual, as it will clearly indicate the location of all grease fittings and the recommended type of grease to use. Use a high-quality grease gun and apply grease until fresh grease emerges from the bearing or joint. Over-greasing can be just as detrimental as under-greasing, so follow the manufacturer's recommendations carefully.
In addition to grease fittings, several other areas require periodic lubrication. Chains should be lubricated with a chain lubricant specifically designed for agricultural equipment. Cables and linkages should be lubricated with a light oil to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Cleaning and lubricating these components regularly will significantly extend their lifespan and prevent premature failure. Always prioritize safety when lubricating moving parts. Ensure the baler is switched off and that all moving parts have come to a complete stop before performing any lubrication.
Belt Maintenance and Replacement
The belts are a critical component of the John Deere 560M Round Baler, responsible for forming and wrapping the bales. Proper belt maintenance is essential for ensuring consistent bale density and minimizing downtime. Regularly inspect the belts for wear, damage, and proper tension. Check for cuts, tears, or frayed edges. The belts should be free of debris and properly aligned. Uneven belt tension can lead to inconsistent bale formation and premature belt wear.
Adjusting belt tension is a crucial aspect of belt maintenance. Consult your operator's manual for the correct belt tension specifications. Overly tight belts can put excessive strain on bearings and other components, while loose belts can slip and cause inconsistent bale formation. When replacing belts, always use genuine John Deere replacement parts. Using aftermarket belts may compromise the performance and reliability of the baler. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing new belts, ensuring they are properly aligned and tensioned.
Pickup Maintenance and Adjustment
The pickup is the component responsible for gathering the crop from the field and feeding it into the baling chamber. Maintaining the pickup in good working order is crucial for maximizing baling efficiency and minimizing crop loss. Regularly inspect the pickup tines for wear and damage. Replace any broken or bent tines immediately. Check the pickup bearings for proper lubrication and signs of wear. The pickup should rotate smoothly and freely without any excessive noise or vibration.
Adjusting the pickup height is essential for optimal performance. The pickup height should be adjusted to match the crop conditions and field terrain. Too high, and you may miss valuable crop; too low, and you risk damaging the pickup tines. Refer to your operator's manual for the recommended pickup height settings. Regularly clean the pickup of accumulated debris, such as straw, hay, and mud. This debris can impede the pickup's performance and lead to overheating. Pay close attention to the stripper bars, ensuring they are properly adjusted and free of obstructions.
Twine System Maintenance
The twine system is responsible for securely wrapping the completed bale. Proper maintenance of the twine system is vital for ensuring reliable bale tying and preventing costly downtime. Regularly inspect the twine arms, needles, and knives for wear and damage. Replace any worn or damaged components immediately. Check the twine tension and adjust as needed. Incorrect twine tension can lead to loose bales or twine breakage.
Ensure the twine spools are properly loaded and that the twine is feeding smoothly through the system. Clean the twine guides and knives of accumulated debris, such as dust, hay, and twine scraps. Lubricate the twine arms and needles with a light oil to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. When replacing twine, always use the recommended type and size. Using the wrong twine can damage the twine system and lead to unreliable bale tying. Regularly inspect the knotter mechanism for proper function and adjust as needed. This is especially important for older balers.
Hydraulic System Checks
The hydraulic system powers several key functions of the John Deere 560M Round Baler, including the bale chamber door and density control. Maintaining the hydraulic system in good working order is essential for ensuring reliable operation. Regularly check the hydraulic fluid level and top off as needed. Use only the recommended type of hydraulic fluid. Inspect the hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks and damage. Replace any leaking or damaged hoses or fittings immediately. Hydraulic leaks can be both messy and dangerous.
Check the hydraulic pressure and adjust as needed. Incorrect hydraulic pressure can lead to sluggish operation or damage to hydraulic components. Consult your operator's manual for the recommended hydraulic pressure settings. Clean the hydraulic filter regularly to prevent contamination of the hydraulic fluid. Contaminated hydraulic fluid can damage hydraulic components and lead to premature failure. Periodically check the hydraulic cylinders for leaks and damage. Damaged cylinders may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
Storage Procedures for Off-Season
Proper storage of your John Deere 560M Round Baler during the off-season is crucial for protecting it from the elements and preventing corrosion and damage. Before storing the baler, thoroughly clean it of all debris, such as straw, hay, and mud. Wash the baler with soap and water and allow it to dry completely. Lubricate all grease fittings and other lubrication points as outlined in the lubrication chart. This helps prevent corrosion during storage.
Store the baler in a dry, covered location, such as a shed or garage. This will protect it from rain, snow, and sunlight, which can cause corrosion and damage to the paint and other components. Cover the baler with a tarp to further protect it from dust and debris. Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. This will prevent the battery from discharging during storage. Jack up the baler and support it on blocks to prevent the tires from flat-spotting. Periodically check the baler during storage to ensure it is properly protected and that no damage has occurred.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bale Formation Problems
One of the most frequent problems encountered with a John Deere 560M round baler is inconsistent or poorly formed bales. This issue can manifest in several ways, including bales that are too soft, excessively dense, or misshapen. Before diving into potential mechanical failures, carefully examine the crop you're baling. Variations in crop moisture content or uneven distribution of material entering the baler can significantly impact bale density and shape. Adjusting your ground speed and pickup settings to ensure a consistent flow of material into the baler chamber is crucial for maintaining uniform bale formation. Also, be aware that different crops have different density characteristics when baled.
If the crop isn't the issue, inspect the bale density system. The density arms and springs are responsible for applying pressure to the forming bale, and any malfunction here can lead to inconsistent results. Check the springs for any signs of breakage or fatigue; replace them if necessary. Inspect the density arms for freedom of movement; ensure they are not binding or obstructed by debris. The hydraulic cylinder responsible for tensioning the density arms should also be checked for leaks. Loss of hydraulic pressure can prevent proper bale formation, particularly on denser bale settings. Finally, verify that the bale shape indicators on the baler's control panel are functioning correctly and calibrated accurately.
Another potential culprit for poor bale formation is the condition of the bale starting system, which includes the belts and rollers within the baling chamber. The belts must be in good condition with proper tension to effectively rotate the forming bale and ensure consistent layering. Examine the belts for any signs of wear, tears, or excessive stretching. Adjust the belt tension according to the manufacturer's specifications. Also, inspect the rollers for bearing wear or damage, which can hinder smooth rotation and contribute to uneven bale formation. A visual inspection of the lacing or belt connectors should also be performed regularly.
Twine Tying Issues
Twine tying malfunctions can be frustrating, leading to wasted twine, incomplete bales, and lost time. The most common problem is the twine failing to wrap the bale completely, resulting in loose bales that unravel quickly. First, ensure you're using the correct type and size of twine recommended for your John Deere 560M baler. Using the wrong twine can cause slippage or breakage within the tying mechanism. Always check the twine boxes to make sure twine is coming out correctly.
Inspect the twine arms and knives for any signs of damage or wear. The knives must be sharp to cleanly cut the twine after the wrapping cycle is complete. Dull knives can cause the twine to fray or break, leading to tying failures. The twine arms must also move freely and consistently across the bale surface to ensure an even wrap. Check the cam followers and pivot points on the twine arms for any binding or excessive wear. Regular lubrication of these components is essential for smooth operation. Examine the twine tension settings; incorrect tension can also cause tying problems. If the twine is too tight, it may break during the wrapping cycle. If the twine is too loose, it may slip and fail to secure the bale properly.
Another less obvious cause of tying problems can be related to the baler's overall operating speed. If you are baling at a very high speed, the tying mechanism may not be able to keep up, resulting in incomplete wraps. Reducing your ground speed slightly can sometimes resolve this issue. Check to ensure all sensors and solenoids related to the twine tying system are functioning correctly. A malfunctioning sensor can prevent the tying cycle from initiating or cause it to terminate prematurely. Use a multimeter to test the electrical connections and verify that the solenoids are receiving the correct voltage.
Hydraulic Problems
The hydraulic system is critical for numerous functions on the John Deere 560M baler, including bale density control, gate operation, and pickup lift. Hydraulic issues can manifest in various ways, such as slow or unresponsive gate movement, difficulty adjusting bale density, or failure of the pickup to raise or lower. A basic rule when having hydraulic issues is to check your hydraulic fluid. It is important to have the right type of oil in your system, as well as have it full. Contaminated fluid can affect how a cylinder performs.
Start by inspecting the hydraulic hoses and fittings for any signs of leaks. Even small leaks can lead to a significant loss of hydraulic pressure over time, impacting the baler's performance. Replace any damaged hoses or fittings immediately. Check the hydraulic pump for proper operation. A worn or failing pump can deliver insufficient pressure to the system. Use a pressure gauge to test the pump's output and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications. Examine the hydraulic cylinders for any signs of internal leakage or damage. Internal leakage can cause cylinders to move slowly or to fail to hold their position.
Also, verify that the hydraulic control valves are functioning correctly. These valves regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid to different parts of the baler. A stuck or malfunctioning valve can prevent a specific function from operating properly. If equipped, inspect the hydraulic oil cooler for any signs of blockage or damage. Overheating hydraulic oil can reduce its viscosity and efficiency, leading to performance problems. Proper operation of the hydraulic system relies on clean oil.
Electrical System Problems
The electrical system on the John Deere 560M baler controls various functions, including the monitor, twine tying, and safety interlocks. Electrical problems can manifest as a non-functional monitor, failure of the twine tying system, or safety interlocks that prevent the baler from operating. Begin by checking the fuses and circuit breakers for any signs of blown fuses or tripped breakers. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating. Check any frayed wires and connectors.
Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, such as chafing, cuts, or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged sections of the harness. Check the connections at all electrical components, including the monitor, sensors, and solenoids. Ensure that the connections are clean, tight, and free from corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and continuity of the wiring circuits. This can help you isolate the source of the electrical problem.
Verify that the monitor is receiving power and functioning correctly. If the monitor is not displaying any information, check the power supply and ground connections. Consult the baler's electrical schematic to trace the wiring circuits and identify potential problem areas. Many electrical issues are caused by faulty sensors. Use a multimeter to test the sensors and verify that they are sending the correct signals to the control system. If there are any safety issues, seek professional help.
Pickup Malfunctions
The pickup is responsible for gathering crop from the windrow and feeding it into the baling chamber. Pickup malfunctions can include the pickup failing to lift properly, uneven crop intake, or excessive crop loss. Begin by inspecting the pickup teeth for any signs of damage, wear, or breakage. Replace any damaged or missing teeth. Check the pickup reel for proper alignment and rotation. A bent or misaligned reel can cause uneven crop intake.
Inspect the pickup lift cylinders for any signs of leaks or damage. Hydraulic problems can cause the pickup to lift slowly or unevenly. Check the pickup drive system for proper tension and alignment. Loose or misaligned belts or chains can cause the pickup to operate inefficiently. Verify that the pickup flotation springs are properly adjusted. These springs help to maintain consistent ground pressure and prevent the pickup from digging into the ground.
Examine the stripper bars for any signs of damage or wear. The stripper bars help to remove crop from the pickup teeth and direct it into the baling chamber. If the stripper bars are worn or damaged, crop can be lost. Ensure the pickup is properly adjusted for the crop conditions. Adjust the pickup height and speed to match the size and density of the windrow. If crop is being lost beneath the pickup, lower the pickup height. Ensure that the cam bearings are properly greased and that the cam follower is in good shape.
Parts and Diagrams
Exploded Views of Key Components
Understanding the intricate workings of your John Deere 560M Round Baler starts with a thorough knowledge of its individual components and how they interact. This section provides detailed exploded views of key assemblies, including the pickup, bale chamber, wrapping system, and drive mechanisms. These diagrams are essential for troubleshooting, identifying necessary replacement parts, and performing routine maintenance. By carefully studying these visual representations, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the baler's construction and operational principles, allowing you to diagnose and address potential issues with greater confidence and efficiency. Remember to consult the accompanying parts list for the specific part numbers and descriptions referenced in the diagrams.
The pickup assembly is the first point of contact between the baler and the crop. Examining its exploded view reveals the arrangement of tines, bands, stripper bars, and the hydraulic lift system. Understanding how these components function together is crucial for maintaining optimal pickup performance and minimizing crop loss. The bale chamber, where the hay or silage is compressed and formed into a cylindrical bale, is another critical area. The diagram illustrates the position of the belts, rollers, and density control system, giving you insight into the baling process. Carefully inspect these diagrams to ensure you know what parts are crucial to bale production.
The wrapping system, responsible for securing the bale and preventing spoilage, is also highlighted with a detailed exploded view. This includes the net wrap or twine delivery mechanism, cutting system, and tensioning components. Proper maintenance and adjustment of these parts are vital for creating tightly wrapped bales that can withstand the rigors of handling and storage. Lastly, the drive mechanisms, encompassing the gearboxes, chains, and hydraulic motors that power the various functions of the baler, are presented in clear and concise diagrams. Understanding the power train of the baler helps the operator to not overwork the machinery, potentially saving them costs on repairs and maintenance.
Parts List and Ordering Information
This section provides a comprehensive parts list, cross-referenced with the exploded views presented earlier. Each part is identified by its official John Deere part number, description, and the corresponding diagram in which it is located. This allows for quick and accurate identification of replacement parts when ordering from your local John Deere dealer. The parts list is organized by assembly, mirroring the structure of the exploded views, making it easy to locate the specific components you need.
In addition to the part number and description, the parts list also includes information on the recommended quantity of each part required for a complete assembly. This is particularly useful when replacing multiple components or performing a major overhaul. When ordering parts, it is always recommended to provide the full part number to your John Deere dealer to ensure that you receive the correct replacement. It is also helpful to provide the serial number of your baler, as some parts may vary depending on the model year or configuration.
Furthermore, this section includes information on how to order parts through your local John Deere dealership or through John Deere's online parts catalog. Be sure to inquire about any available discounts or promotions on parts and service. Finally, always double-check the part number and description before placing your order to avoid any potential errors or delays. Keeping a well-stocked supply of common replacement parts on hand can help minimize downtime during critical baling operations.
John Deere 560M Round Baler Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Safety
General Safety Rules
Operating and maintaining any piece of agricultural machinery requires a diligent approach to safety. The John Deere 560M Round Baler is a powerful and efficient machine, but it also presents potential hazards if not handled correctly. Always read and understand the entire operator's manual before attempting to operate, service, or adjust the baler. Familiarize yourself with all controls and indicators, and understand their function. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Never operate the baler while fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. By adhering to these general safety rules, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe and productive baling season.
Before starting the baler, conduct a thorough inspection of the surrounding area. Clear the area of any obstacles, including people, animals, and debris. Ensure that all guards and shields are in place and properly secured. Never attempt to operate the baler with missing or damaged safety features. Communicate clearly with anyone working in the vicinity of the baler, and establish a system of hand signals to communicate effectively. Regularly check the condition of tires, belts, chains, and other critical components, and replace them as needed. A well-maintained baler is a safer baler.
Safety Decals and Locations
Throughout the John Deere 560M Round Baler, you will find various safety decals. These decals serve as constant reminders of potential hazards associated with the machine. It is crucial to understand the meaning of each decal and to heed its warnings. Familiarize yourself with the location of all safety decals on the baler. If any decals are missing, damaged, or illegible, replace them immediately. Replacement decals can be obtained from your local John Deere dealer. These decals cover a wide range of safety concerns, from entanglement hazards around moving parts to crush hazards around the tailgate and bale discharge areas. Taking the time to understand and respect these warnings can prevent serious injuries. Treat these decals not just as stickers, but as important safety equipment.
Regularly inspect the safety decals to ensure they are clean and legible. Dirt, grease, and sunlight can fade or obscure the warnings, making them difficult to read. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the decals, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the adhesive or the printed image. When replacing a decal, be sure to properly prepare the surface by cleaning and degreasing it. Apply the new decal carefully, ensuring it is properly aligned and securely attached. By maintaining the visibility and legibility of the safety decals, you are reinforcing a culture of safety around the baler.
Emergency Procedures
Knowing how to respond in an emergency is critical. Before operating the baler, familiarize yourself with the location of the emergency stop controls. The main emergency stop switch will immediately halt the baler's operation in case of an entanglement or other hazardous situation. Know how to quickly and efficiently disengage the PTO (Power Take-Off) from the tractor, cutting off power to the baler. Ensure that everyone who operates or works around the baler is aware of these emergency procedures.
In the event of an injury, immediately administer first aid and seek medical attention. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available and ensure that you and your workers are trained in basic first aid procedures. If possible, document the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the time, location, and nature of the injury. Report all incidents to your supervisor or farm manager. Regularly review emergency procedures with your workers and conduct practice drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond effectively in a crisis. Have a plan in place for contacting emergency services, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care center. Remember that preparation is key to minimizing the impact of any emergency.