NH 630 baler, tailgate opening early

[Knapview]

We have a NH 630 round baler, in good condition, that we use for both baleage and dry hay. We bought it used and the first year, I baled approx 400 bales without a problem. Last year, part way through the year, the tailgate started opening before the bale was done. The left side latch seems to slip off when it is about 1 1/2 to 2 feet around. Doesn't do it every bale, but even the bales it makes full aren't as big as they should be. I can also notice on the bales that it does make full size, the tractor is really working by the end of the bale, like it's having a hard time keeping the baler going (I am using it on a 285 MF so there should be lots of power).

We have had NH tech out to look at it - he says he can't find anything wrong. It misses probably every third bale - hatch pops open and you can't even tie it once that happens. I've got now that I watch the guage real close and if it looks like the hatch is going to open, I tie it off as a small bale, as opposed to having a bunch of half sized untied bales (although tied half size bales are not much better as we wrap a lot of our hay).

I'm about ready to tear my hair out - any suggestions?

 

[art]

I didn't know that the 630 had a haylage package.

 

[RickB]

I didn't know that the 630 had a haylage package.

Yes, they do. it doesn't amount to much more than putting 5 bolt hubs and wheels on it rather than the 4 bolt equipment on the standard units.

The problem is likely more of a problem with the tractor's remote valve than a baler problem. If you have another remote on that tractor, try it. If not, try another tractor. If you can't do that, try reversing the hoses in the couplers and operate the valve in the opposite direction.