When it comes to efficient hay production on small farms, having the right rake can make all the difference. At Small Farm Innovations, we’ve been helping farmers find the perfect raking solution since our very first sale—a Tonnutti 4 wheel hay rake. While Tonnutti is no longer available in the USA, we’ve continued our commitment to quality by featuring exceptional wheel rakes from Befco and DCM.
The Workhorse: The 4 Wheel Rake
Our best-selling rake remains the tried-and-true 4 wheel rake. This versatile machine has earned its place as our most popular model for good reason. With a working width of 8.6 feet that can be reduced to 4 feet by simply pulling a pin and swinging the main arm, it offers incredible flexibility for various field conditions.
Perfect Applications
The 4 wheel rake is primarily used with:
- Mini round balers
- 3×3 round balers
- Some customers even use it successfully with 4×5 round balers
Advantages of the 4 Wheel Rake
- Low cost – An economical entry point for small farm operations
- Minimal power requirements – Can be attached to 15 hp tractors
- Versatile capacity – Handles both high and low volumes of hay
- High speed operation – Get more done in less time
- No PTO required – Simpler operation and less wear on your tractor
Disadvantages to Consider
- Requires operator skill – There’s a learning curve to master
- Ground-driven design – Sand and dirt can be introduced to the hay
- Large transport size – Takes up more space when moving between fields
- Loses efficiency on sharp turns – 90-degree or sharper turns reduce effectiveness
- Quick hitch compatibility – Only certain quick hitches will work
Inline Rakes: 2 Through 6 Wheel Options
Befco offers a complete range of inline hay rakes, from 2 wheel through 6 wheel configurations. All inline models share the same advantages and disadvantages as the 4 wheel rake, giving you options based on your specific field size and hay volume needs.
The Premium Choice: Befco Carted V-Rakes
For those seeking top-tier performance, the Befco carted V-Rakes represent the pinnacle of hay raking technology. These high-quality Italian-made machines deliver exceptional efficiency and produce perfectly sized windrows for mid-size round balers like the Entry 120 and Entry 150 Maschio Gaspardo models.
Available Models
- 8 wheel unit – 21 ft working width
- 10 wheel unit – 23 ft working width
- 12 wheel unit – 25 ft working width
Key Features
- Can be pulled with a 20 hp tractor (requires hydraulic outlets)
- Adjustable windrow width by pulling two pins and swinging both main arms
- Extremely easy to operate—requires very little skill
- Exceptional reliability since 2010 with minimal parts needed
Proven Durability
We’ve been selling V-Rakes since 2010, and our parts sales tell the story—we’ve sold very few replacement parts over the years. The occasional repair is typically due to someone hitting an obstacle and bending a wheel or arm, not mechanical failure.
Perfect Pairing
We recommend V-Rakes for our Entry 4×4 and 4×5 round balers. They create the perfect windrow size for these balers and are incredibly user-friendly, even for beginners.
Training and Tips: Mastering the Art of Raking
At Small Farm Innovations, we provide comprehensive training when you purchase a baler package system. Here’s an important insight: raking typically requires more training time than mowing or baling.
Why Raking Has a Learning Curve
The biggest challenge occurs when customers purchase equipment late in the season when grass is super tall and thick. This is especially true with mini round balers, where you’re working with a rake that creates a 4-foot minimum windrow and a baler with only a 2-foot wide pickup. Don’t worry—we’ll get you trained, and with practice, you’ll become a master at raking hay.
The Learning Progression
Remember these three truths:
- You learn how to mow when you rake
- You learn how to rake when you bale
- Practice makes perfect
Pro Tip for Beginners
Tall, giant windrows are the most challenging to handle. For first-time baling with difficult conditions, try this technique: raise the baler off the ground and skim the top of the windrow. While this method can be a bit demanding on a small tractor, it makes the first-time baling experience much more manageable and less stressful.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right wheel rake depends on your specific operation:
- Budget-conscious with smaller fields? The 4 wheel rake is your best bet
- Need maximum efficiency and ease of use? Invest in a V-Rake
- Somewhere in between? Consider the inline rake options
Whatever you choose, Small Farm Innovations is here to support you with quality equipment, expert training, and ongoing assistance to ensure your hay operation runs smoothly.
Ready to upgrade your hay raking operation? Contact Small Farm Innovations today to discuss which wheel rake is right for your farm.
