Abstract: A control valve for the hydraulic system of a round bale wagon is disclosed wherein the valve spool is selectively positionable between a cross conveyor mode and a pusher mode and also provides a hydraulic interlock for the operation of the load bed to pivotally rotate for the unloading of bales therefrom. Movement of the valve spool between the cross conveyor and the pusher modes effects a selection of the operation of the bale handling mechanism to either convey bales laterally across the load bed or rearwardly on the load bed. The provision of a hydraulic interlock prevents the operation of the load bed to pivotally rotate the forward end above the frame of the bale wagon and unload accumulated bales therefrom, unless both the cross conveyor and the bale pickup are in a position that would not interfere with the movement of the load bed and, therefore, prevent damage thereto.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for a round bale wagon is disclosed wherein at least two hydraulic cylinders are connected hydraulically in series. A relief valve redirects the flow of hydraulic fluid to continue the operation of subsequent hydraulic cylinders in the series circuit and to continue the flow of hydraulic fluid through the circuit when one of said hydraulic cylinders reaches the end of its stroke. The hydraulic cylinders corresponding to a bale pickup and the bale handling mechanism are connected in series in such a manner that, when the bale pickup is doing work in elevating a bale onto the load bed, the bale handling mechanism is returning to its home position without doing work and, when the bale pickup returns to its first position adjacent the ground, it does no work, while the bale handling mechanism works to arrange the deposited bales in a preselected position on the load bed.

Abstract: A bale handling apparatus includes a pickup arm adjustably mounted for picking up various size bales. Hydraulic hoses are connected to a cylinder on the arm. A slack adjustor is movable on the frame in response to adjustment of the arm for retaining the hoses adjacent the frame to limit possible hose damage.