Spread-a-Bale units will have a galvanised finish, lighter rotors, improved hydraulics and an uprated motor next year, says manufacturer Thos Storey Fabrications. That should improve the machine’s working life and extend the distance it can spread straw, it claims.

The new galvanised finish is said to be harder-wearing than conventional paint and gives the machine better protection against corrosion.

Spreading efficiency and reach have been improved by using new-style rotors that strip straw out of the bale more efficiently. Rotor torque has been raised by 30% courtesy of larger motors and an improved control system:

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Thos Storey has also taken the opportunity to remodel the front end of the machine, giving it stronger hydraulic ram supports and repositioning pivot points. It has also simplified the bottom of the spreading head to improve material flow through the spreading rotors and adjusted the angle of the ramp leading to the belt to improve the speed and ease of bale loading.

A replaceable lip is now fitted to the leading edge of the machine to protect it against damage when picking bales off the ground.

Prices start from £10,425 for the Mini machine (1.5m diameter round bales, 1.8m long square bales); £11,050 for the Midi (1.5m, 2.5m); and £11,500 for the Maxi (2.0m, 2.5m).