Abstract: A rotatable flail-type agricultural implement is disclosed which includes a central axle and a plurality of radially and circumferentially spaced, flexible, hammer-supporting chains presenting a plurality of ground crop-engaging flails upon rotation of the axle. The axle is preferably composed of a pair of elongated, telescopically interfitted sections, at least one of which is shiftable, such that the effective width of the implement can be varied to accommodate different crop row spacings. In addition, the axle sections include complemental, spiral key and keyway structure for maintaining the flexible hammer chains in a substantially constant, spaced relationship to the central axle, irrespective of variances in the axle length.

Abstract: A frame for attachment to the forward end of a farm tractor and defining upstanding guide structure thereon including a substantially vertical lower portion and an upwardly and rearwardly inclined upper portion. A follower is supported from the guide structure for movement up and down the latter and includes a forwardly projecting horizontal spear assembly for spearing the center of a round bale of hay lying upon the ground toward which the associated tractor is advanced. A hydraulic cylinder is operatively connected between the frame and the follower for moving the latter upwardly and downwardly along the guide structure.