North Yorkshire engineering outfit JH Hudson has developed a new version of its front-mounted storage box that can be fitted with a detachable crop roller.

The steel rolling element has a concave profile and toothed mid-section to press the swath ahead of the baler or forage wagon.

This minimises the risk of the crop snagging on the tractor’s underbelly and ensures there is a consistent, lump-free feed into the baler or forage wagon pick-up.

See also: Ultimate guide to buying a round baler 2023

According to JF Hudson, the weight of the roller means it will keep spinning while the tractor completes a headland turn, which makes for a smoother start to the next bout.

© JF Hudson

Working height is simply adjusted on the tractor’s front linkage, and the box section frame is strong enough to be used to nudge any errant bales out of the way.

When not required, the roller can be unbolted from the box frame, which can then be carried with the linkage in its folded position to minimise the front overhang.

A 1.2m-wide roller and box combination costs £2,254, while the 1.6m version is £3,256.

These can be painted to match the tractor and upgraded with a range of bespoke options.