Nikkel Iron Works to Unveil New Model at World Ag Expo


The new 1017 DARF hay rake will make its first West Coast appearance at the 46th annual World Ag Expo, Feb. 12-14.

Nikkel Iron Works, a 46-year WAE exhibitor, developed the new rake with changes and enhancements made as a result of customer feedback. The new model is in addition to the reliable model 917 rake, which has been on the market for over two decades and has become an industry leader for the California company.

Enhancements include the upgraded Dur-Adjust Spring and Rod System and Super Duty walking beam assemblies now offered as standard features. Hydraulic hoses are now enclosed for a smoother, more efficient and maintenance-free operation; a convenient, easy access cover protects the multifunction hydraulic valve from weather and debris; and a redesigned channel lift tube support delivers trouble-free rake wheel height adjustment.
Nikkel DARF photo
"We have had the 917 for many years and it continues to perform very well," noted sales manager Bruce Shannon. "The 1017 is a result of open communication with the people who put our rakes in the field."

Nikkel Iron Works' World Ag Expo exhibit will be located on O Street, space 32.

The nearly 90-year-old Nikkel Iron Works continues to manufacture its equipment at a plant in Shafter, located near Bakersfield in California's San Joaquin Valley. The DARF hay rake is known for its durability and its ability to gently, yet quickly, handle hay in the field. DARF hay rakes are in use on small and large family farms and many commercial operations throughout the western United States.

Stan Azevedo, of Azevedo Custom Hay in Hanford, says he uses the DARF because it gently lifts the hay, without losing the nutrient-rich leaves. He notes that the DARF also aerates, or fluffs, the hay, which allows it to dry more effectively and bale more quickly.

Azevedo points to changes in rake design that have allowed him to work his rakes at 13 miles per hour, compared to the previous 4 to 5 mph. And, the DARF wheel rake allows him to rake when the hay is on the drier side, which helps with baling, and even when the hay is a little too damp.

"The DARF hay rake is fast and allows me to work efficiently and I have to be efficient to stay in business," Azevedo added. "But it is also gentle, to preserve the leaves and produce good forage."

The DARF hay rake is now available with up to 17 wheels in 24 different models to meet operators' specific needs. For information, contact sales manager Bruce Shannon at 559-999-1014 or visit the web site, nikkelironworks.com.

01.21.2013