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Horsepower Requirements for Round Balers

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If you already own a tractor and you’re adding a baler to your arsenal of attachments, the question you are probably asking yourself is “how much horsepower does it take to run a round baler?” The answer is that it depends on the model. Review the minimum horsepower requirements for John Deere round balers below before making a purchase.

John Deere Baler Horsepower Requirements

There are 16 different options in the John Deere Zero Series Baler line. Each model is listed below from lowest to highest horsepower requirements.


















Model



PTO HP (Minimum)

450E

55 hp

450M / 450M Silage

55 hp

550M / 550M Silage

55 hp

460M / 460M Silage

65 hp

460 R

65 hp

560M / 560M Silage

75 hp

560R

75 hp

450M MegaWide™ HC

80 hp

460M MegaWide™ HC

125 hp

560M MegaWide™ HC

125 hp

460R MegaWide™ HC

125 hp

560R MegaWide™ HC

125 hp



The low horsepower round balers, like the 450E, 450M, and 550M models can be paired with any of the John Deere 5-Series or 6-Series utility tractors. The MegaWide models that require a minimum of 125 PTO HP need to be paired with a more heavy duty tractor like a 4WD or Row Crop tractor.

Other Baler Specs to Consider

Matching your tractor to a baler it can power is critical, but there are other important specs to consider. From bale size to wrap compatibility, choosing the right baler for your needs comes down to a number of different factors. Let the equipment experts at by your local Papé Machinery Ag & Turf location help you make the right decision for your property and equipment. Contact us today!

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