For the past three years, Noel has been running a Kverneland 85156 C trailed tedder — a move he says has significantly improved both output and labour efficiency.
From two machines to one
Prior to upgrading, Noel was running two six-rotor tedders — a setup that often proved inefficient when trying to match output to job size.
“We had two six-rotors before this,” he explains. “The biggest thing was trying to run two machines all the time. Whether the job was big or small, you were organising two tractors and two drivers.”
The move to a 15.6m trailed tedder was aimed at simplifying the operation.
“We went with this to run one rig instead of two, speed up the job and cut out labour. In reality, we’re getting more done now with one machine than we were with the two before.”
High output with reduced labour
Covering in the region of 150–160 acres annually — often turned multiple times depending on conditions — Noel says the biggest benefit has been the time saved.
“It’s a serious time-saver — that’s the main thing. You’re covering ground much faster and getting through jobs quicker.”
The Kverneland 85156 C features a 15.6m working width and 14 rotors, designed to deliver high output while maintaining consistent crop handling across the full working width.
This allows operators to tackle both small and large jobs with ease.
“With this setup now, you just go into a job and get it done — big or small, it doesn’t matter.”
Even spreading improves crop flow
Performance in the field has been another standout, particularly in terms of spreading and crop flow.
“It gives a very even spread right across the full width. It lifts the grass cleanly off the ground and leaves it nice and even.”
The machine’s smaller diameter rotors are designed to create a consistent overlap, ensuring efficient pick-up and even distribution of the crop across the full width.
For Noel, this has a direct impact on the rest of the operation.
“The big thing is it’s not lumpy after it. It makes it much easier to rake, and you’re not fighting it going into the baler — especially with silage.”
Ground following on challenging terrain
Operating across varied ground conditions, Noel has been particularly impressed with how the tedder handles uneven terrain.
“It’s 100% on that. We’ve a mix of ground here, and it follows it very well.”
The machine incorporates Kverneland’s TerraFlow ground-following system, which allows each rotor to move independently and maintain a consistent distance from the ground.
This helps to deliver a cleaner job, reducing soil contamination while maintaining an even crop flow.
Durability has also improved compared to previous machines.
“We’re into the third year now and haven’t had to touch the tines. With other machines, you’d be replacing them regularly.”
Simple operation and flexibility
Ease of use has been another key advantage.
“There was no bother setting it up, and it’s very straightforward to operate.”
In fact, Noel highlights just how user-friendly the machine is in day-to-day work.
“Anyone can use it — even the young ones. The three daughters would head off with it no bother.”
The tedder requires only a single acting spool for lifting and a double acting spool for folding, making it compatible with a wide range of tractors.
“You can run it on anything from around 120hp up to 250hp. It handles well behind whatever you put on it.”
On the road, the machine folds to under 3m transport width and tows smoothly behind the tractor, making it practical for moving between fields.
Final verdict
Noel says the machine has proven very reliable over the past three seasons, with minimal day-to-day maintenance required thanks to limited greasing points and largely maintenance-free driveline components designed to reduce downtime.
Purchased through Donohoe Agri, he also notes the importance of dealer support.
“The backup has been 100% — no complaints there at all.”
After three seasons, Noel is clear on the benefits.
“The biggest thing is the output — it’s big, it’s efficient, and it saves time. You’re getting a better job done as well.”
For contractors and farmers looking to increase capacity while reducing labour, the move to a high-capacity trailed tedder has proven worthwhile.
“It’s doing the work of two machines for us. I’d definitely recommend it.”
For more information on the Kverneland Tedder Range or to discuss your forage needs, click here or contact:
John Doyle, Product Manager: 087 101 3053
