Abstract: A method and apparatus for baling crop materials using a baler with a pickup thereon for picking up crop materials from the ground and moving such crop materials towards a baling chamber. The pickup has a pickup frame operatively attached to the baler, the frame having a plurality of laterally spaced apart tines of a type which is typical for balers. A powered rotor is rotationally attached to the baler a predetermined distance above and forwardly of the pickup frame, the rotor being powered to rotate in at least one direction. A plurality of blade assemblies are disposed on the rotor having blades extending radially outwardly from the axis of the rotor wherein at least at times one or more of the blade assemblies are disposed between one or more of the tines.

Abstract: An oversleeve for preventing crop material from wrapping around an agricultural implement shaft. The oversleeve is disposed over the implement shaft and affixed to a stripper pan so it does not rotate with the shaft. The oversleeve is preferably made of a polymer composite material. Removal of dirt between the shaft and oversleeve is effected by a helical groove arranged so the dirt is driven to the ends of the oversleeve.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for baling crop materials using a baler with a pickup thereon for picking up crop materials from the ground and moving such crop materials towards a baling chamber. The pickup has a pickup frame operatively attached to the baler, the frame having a plurality of laterally spaced apart tines of a type which is typical for balers. A powered rotor is rotationally attached to the baler a predetermined distance above and forwardly of the pickup frame, the rotor being powered to rotate in at least one direction.