As summer approaches across New Zealand, farmers and contractors are gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year — the hay season. Efficiency, reliability, and preparation make all the difference between a smooth harvest and unexpected downtime.
One of the most important — yet often overlooked — components of your round variable baler is the baler belt. These belts do the heavy lifting, rolling and compressing your hay into dense, uniform bales. With the demands of a full season ahead, now is the perfect time to inspect your belts for wear, cracks, or damage before heading out into the paddock.
Why Baler Belt Maintenance Matters
Even minor wear or fraying can lead to belt slippage, uneven bale formation, or sudden breakdowns in the field. By checking your belts early, you can prevent costly delays and protect both your crop and your machinery investment.
A well-maintained belt ensures:
- Consistent bale size and density
- Reduced downtime during peak season
- Extended lifespan of your baling machinery
RR Fisher – Experts in Belting Since the 1950s
At RR Fisher, belting is in our DNA. We’ve been supplying quality industrial and agricultural belts since the 1950s — that’s over 70 years of experience and know-how. Whether you’re running a common baler model or something a little different, we supply a wide range of baler belts for New Holland, McHale, Case IH, Lely Welger, Fendt, Claas, Massey Ferguson, and John Deere balers.
We offer:
- Standard baler belts to suit most makes and models
- Custom baler belts tailored to your machine and working conditions
Every belt we supply is designed for durability and performance, ensuring you get the most out of every season.
What Are Baler Belts and How Do They Work?
Baler belts are heavy-duty, reinforced rubber belts used balers to compress hay, straw, or silage into compact bales. They loop around rollers inside the baler chamber, providing traction and tension for efficient bale formation.
High-quality belts — typically made from polyester or nylon-reinforced rubber — deliver:
- Consistent performance
- Reduced downtime
- Uniform bale shape and density
Benefits of High-Quality Baler Belting
- Improved Efficiency – Streamlines baling, saving time and fuel.
- Greater Durability – Built to withstand tough conditions and long use.
- Reduced Crop Waste – Ensures tighter, more uniform bales that store better.
- Cost-Effective Operation – Lower maintenance costs and fewer replacements.
When to Repair or Replace Your Baler Belt
Regular inspection is vital. Look out for signs such as:
- Fraying edges
- Cracks or splitting
- Loss of tension
- Uneven tracking
Minor damage can often be repaired using baler belt repair kits or fasteners, but when belts become overly worn, replacement is the safer and more economical option. A failed belt in the middle of hay season can mean lost productivity and costly downtime.
Baler Belt Accessories You Might Need
To keep your equipment running at its best, RR Fisher supplies a full range of baler belt accessories, including baler belt fasteners and lacing systems
Correct installation is crucial — belts must be joined with perfectly aligned fasteners and not over-tensioned. Improper fitting can cause premature failure or misalignment.
Best Practices for Maximising Baler Belt Performance
- Clean belts regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Inspect for wear before every hay season.
- Store properly in a cool, dry area away from sunlight.
- Follow OEM tension and alignment specifications.
A quick inspection now could save you hours of frustration later. Good practice would be to have at least one replacement belt on hand. Its a quick job to have when you have it available but can result in a day or two out of action if you don have it.
Don’t Wait — Get Ready Now
With the summer hay season fast approaching, now’s the time to check, service, and replace your belts if needed. A quick check today could save you hours of downtime later.
Contact RR Fisher by phone on 0800 235 877, by email sales@rrfisher.co.nz for expert advice or to order your replacement baler belts online — and head into the season confident that your equipment is ready to perform.