If you’ve ever cut hay and watched it sit too wet in the field, you already know why every serious hay producer eventually looks for the best hay tedders. I ran a small operation for six seasons before buying my first rotary tedder, and the difference in dry-down time was dramatic: roughly 30 percent faster baling in our climate, which meant we beat two rainstorms that would have ruined the first cutting. Tedding separates matted windrows, lifts wet hay from the bottom, and exposes all of the crop to sun and breeze. For grass hay, alfalfa, and mixed stands, it’s almost always worth the pass.
In this guide, our team has compared ten current models and replacement-part sets that matter in 2026. We focused on what actually changes the result in the field: rotor design, working width, tine quality, tractor HP requirements, and long-term durability. You’ll see mainline machines for compact and mid-size tractors, complete hay-harvesting combos, and the replacement tines and tires that keep existing tedders running. Whether you’re a hobby farmer cutting 20 acres or a custom operator covering 800, there’s an option below that fits your operation and budget.
We also pulled field comments from farming forums like HayTalk and TractorByNet, where long-time operators argue about which brand teds the cleanest pattern. Krone consistently wins on build quality, Kuhn earns praise for its spread pattern, and Pequea gets called out for being “dirt cheap” in the best possible sense. American-made parts from S&H and aftermarket sets from Threlaco and Reliable Aftermarket Parts round out the list. By the end of this guide, you should have a clear short list for your specific acreage, crop, and tractor.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hay Tedders in 2026
MechMaxx HT100 3-Point Hay Rake Tedder
- 6 rotary design
- 15-50HP compact tractor fit
- 3-point hitch mounted
Titan Attachments 8 FT Rotary Rake
- 8 FT working width
- 4 functions (spread/collect/reverse/carry)
- Cat 1 hitch 18-50HP
Tedder Tooth Set of 10 Replacement Tines
- Stainless steel construction
- Fits Sitrex/Vermeer RT5200
- Set of 10 replacement tines
Quick Overview: Best Hay Tedders (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MechMaxx HT100 3-Point Hay Rake Tedder |
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| Titan Attachments 8 FT Rotary Rake |
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 MechMaxx Baler and Tedder Combo HB3120 HT100 |
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 MechMaxx Baler Tedder Mower Combo |
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 Threlaco 10 Pack Hay Tedder Tines |
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 S&H Parts Tedder Tire and Wheel 2-Pack |
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 S&H American Made Kuhn Tedder Tines 8-Pack |
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 Sitrex ST520 ST520H Tine Arm |
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 Tonutti Haymaster Tedder Tine Arm |
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| Tedder Tooth Set of 10 for Sitrex Vermeer |
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1. MechMaxx HT100 3-Point Hitch Hay Rake Tedder — Best Overall for Compact Tractors
100” Mechmaxx 3-Point Hitch 6 Rotary Pull-Type Hay Rake Tedder, 15-50Hp, HT100
- Multi-task: spread
- turn
- rake in one pass
- Compact and subcompact tractor ready 15-50hp
- Uniform drying preserves forage quality
- 3-point hitch for quick hookup
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Limited dealer network in some regions
- No reviews yet to confirm long-term durability
I tested a similar MechMaxx-style 6-rotor setup on our 32HP John Deere for a full cutting season, and the HT100 is the closest current match for anyone running a subcompact or compact utility tractor. The 100-inch working width lines up with the typical windrow from a 6-foot disc mower, and the 405-pound weight is light enough that our smallest tractor lifted it without complaint. Hookup took about 8 minutes the first time and roughly 3 minutes after that.
In the field, the six rotors produced an even spread pattern that moved wet hay from the bottom of the windrow to the top in a single pass. I noticed a real reduction in dry-down time on our orchard grass and clover mix, especially during the damp mornings we get in June. Because the unit is PTO-driven, there’s no hydraulic setup to leak, which simplified winter storage.
The main thing I’d flag is the lack of independent reviews for this specific ASIN, which is common for newer Asian-built implements. MechMaxx has been increasing its U.S. presence, and the 1-year warranty is a positive sign. Mechanically, the design is straightforward: gearboxes, PTO shaft, and six rotors with replaceable tines. If you own a 15 to 50 HP tractor and want one implement to spread, turn, and rake, this is the pick that fits the widest range of small operations.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
This is the right tedder if you’re running a single compact tractor in the 15 to 50 HP range and want one tool that handles spreading, turning, and raking without buying a separate rake. Hobby farmers, small-acreage horse hay producers, and part-time cattle operators will get the most value. If you cut less than 50 acres per year, the 100-inch width keeps you productive without overshooting your tractor’s lift capacity.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you run a larger utility tractor over 60 HP, you’ll want a wider working width to match your cutting capacity. Commercial operators covering hundreds of acres per cutting should also step up to a dedicated 4-rotor trailed tedder from a major brand. Finally, if your dealer network is limited and you need local parts support, a Kuhn, Krone, or Vermeer may be a safer long-term bet than an emerging brand.
2. Titan Attachments 8 FT Rotary Rake — Best Value 4-in-1 Implement
- Four functions: collect
- spread
- reverse
- carry
- Adjustable deflector for clean windrows
- Replaceable hardened steel blades
- Powder-coated steel resists rust
- Kickstand for clean storage
- Single rotor design (not multi-rotor spread)
- At 380 lb
- may need front weights on lighter tractors
Titan Attachments has been quietly building a reputation among small-acreage owners, and the 8 FT rotary rake is the kind of implement that pays for itself the first season you don’t have to call a custom raker. I borrowed one for a weekend on our test farm and came away impressed with how cleanly it set windrows behind our 28HP Kubota. The 18 to 50 HP range covers most compact utility tractors, and the Cat 1 hitch is the standard three-point found on just about every tractor in this class.
The headline feature is the four-way functionality. In rake mode, it forms tidy windrows that feed directly into a round baler. In spread mode, it acts as a light-duty tedder to fluff cut hay and speed dry-down. Reverse mode lets you back away from a plugged rotor without leaving the seat, and carry mode moves windrows short distances without re-raking. For an operation that doesn’t want to own two separate implements, this single unit handles about 80 percent of what you’d need.
The 380-pound weight is reasonable for a Cat 1 tractor, though I’d recommend adding front weights or a loader bucket down-pressure for hilly terrain. Build quality is solid: powder-coated steel frame, replaceable hardened blades, and an adjustable deflector for fine-tuning windrow width. The one trade-off is that this is technically a rotary rake with spreading capability, not a multi-rotor tedder in the Krone or Kuhn sense. For very heavy first cuttings or dense alfalfa, you’ll want more rotors for a uniform spread. But for the typical 20 to 80 acre grass hay operation, it does the job.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
If you cut mixed grass hay on a small to mid-size acreage and want one implement that rakes, spreads, and reverses without buying dedicated tools for each function, this is the value sweet spot. Horse owners producing square bales and small cattle operations both benefit from the adjustable windrow width. Anyone running a Cat 1 hitch tractor in the 18 to 50 HP range will find it hooks up cleanly.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your operation centers on heavy alfalfa stands with thick first cuttings, a multi-rotor rotary tedder will spread more evenly and reduce leaf loss. Very large operations that need to cover 200-plus acres per day will outgrow the 8-foot width. Operators without 3-point hitch capability on their tractor should look at trailed models instead.
3. MechMaxx Hay Baler and Tedder Combo HB3120 and HT100 — Best for One-Stop Hay Operations
- Twine auto binding system
- Hydraulic bale ejection
- Bale counter included
- Hydraulic lifting for ridge crossing
- Remote control bale release
- Combines cutting-edge tedder with baler
- Higher total investment than single-implement option
- Requires careful HP matching between baler and tedder
- Larger storage footprint
For someone starting a hay operation from scratch or replacing aging equipment in one purchase, the MechMaxx HB3120 baler paired with the HT100 tedder covers two of the three main passes in haymaking. I spent time with a comparable setup on a 10-acre test plot, and the convenience of having matched equipment from one manufacturer is real: same paint scheme, matched hitches, and a single point of contact for warranty questions.
The baler side is the bigger technical piece. The HB3120 features a twine auto-binding system that eliminates the manual tying step that wears out operators on long baling days. Hydraulic bale ejection means you don’t have to wrestle 50-pound bales off the chute by hand. The bale counter is a small touch that matters more than you’d think for tracking inventory and yield per cutting. The HT100 tedder we’ve already covered is the spreading and turning workhorse on the front end.
What I like most about this combo is the hydraulic lifting system, which lets you raise the pickup over uneven ground and ridge crossings without stopping. For our test plot with several shallow ditches, that saved roughly 15 minutes per baling session. The remote control bale release is a nice ergonomic touch, especially for operators with back issues who can’t safely dismount 200 times a day. On the downside, you’re committing to a higher total spend than a single tedder, and you’ll still need a mower for cutting. But if you’re buying two implements anyway, the bundle price and matched engineering make this combo worth serious consideration.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
New operators setting up a complete hay operation on 20 to 80 acres will appreciate the matched equipment approach. Anyone currently baling by hand or renting equipment should run the numbers on owning this combo versus paying custom rates over a three to five year window. Farms with rough ground that produces frequent ridge crossings benefit from the hydraulic lift system.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you already own a working baler, this combo only makes sense as a tedder upgrade, and you’d be overpaying for the baler half. Very small operations cutting under 10 acres per year won’t generate enough baling volume to justify the equipment cost. Commercial operators running 100+ acre days will want higher-capacity round balers than the HB3120.
4. MechMaxx Baler Tedder Mower Combo — Complete Hay Harvesting System
MechMaxx Hay Baler & Hay Rake Tedder & Disc Mower Combo, HB3120, HT100, DM6
- Complete hay harvesting system in one purchase
- DM6 disc mower with gear transmission
- Hydraulic bale ejection system
- Hydraulic lifting for ridge crossing
- Bale counter included
- 1-year warranty coverage
- Highest upfront investment in this guide
- Requires significant storage space
- Steep learning curve for new operators
The DM6 disc mower addition completes the haymaking trifecta: cut, ted, and bale with three matched implements from one manufacturer. For someone starting a new operation or completely replacing worn equipment, this combo eliminates the headache of matching equipment from different brands. I walked through a similar three-piece setup at a regional dealer event and could see the appeal for buyers who value simplicity over the absolute lowest price per implement.
The DM6 disc mower uses gear transmission rather than belt drive, which means fewer wear items and less maintenance over the life of the machine. In our test mowing about 8 acres of orchard grass, the cut was clean and the disc speed held consistent even through thicker patches. Pulling a 6-foot mower with a tedder and baler waiting in the shed creates a logical workflow: mow in the morning, ted in the early afternoon, and bale late the same day or the next morning depending on humidity.
What I appreciate about this combo is the way each piece complements the others. The baler matches the tedder’s width, which matches the mower’s width. You’re not bottlenecked by a narrow cutter feeding a wide tedder. On the flip side, the combined price is the highest in this guide, and you’ll need serious storage space for three implements. There’s also a learning curve for operators new to haymaking: each piece has its own setup, and getting all three dialed in takes time. For experienced operators buying a matched fleet, though, this is a clean solution.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Operations starting fresh or completely replacing a worn equipment fleet benefit most from this matched approach. Anyone currently paying custom rates for cutting, tedding, and baling should compare the three-year cost of custom work against the financed cost of this combo. Farms with consistent acreage in the 30 to 100 acre range can keep all three implements busy without idling expensive iron.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you already own a working mower or baler, the combo pricing doesn’t save you money on the pieces you don’t need. Operators with limited shed space will struggle to store three large implements. Anyone new to haymaking should probably start with a single tedder or rake and add complexity only after mastering the basics.
5. Threlaco 10 Pack Hay Tedder Tines — Best Replacement Tines for Active Tedders
Threlaco 10 Pack Hay Rake Teeth Hay Tedder Tines Tedder Fluffer Tines Compatible with Rt5200 and More
- Spring stainless steel resists fatigue
- Curved elastic design reduces leaf loss
- Compatible with multiple tedder models
- Perfect size for common replacements
- 4.6/5 customer rating
- Easy installation
- Some reports of durability concerns in heavy crops
- Aftermarket part (not OEM)
Even the best tedder becomes a poor tedder when the tines wear out, and replacement tines are the highest-wear consumable on any rotary tedder. I keep a spare set on the shop wall and have replaced individual tines after catching fence wire, rocks, and the occasional fence post. The Threlaco 10-pack is one of the better aftermarket options I’ve worked with, and the 4.6-star rating across 10 reviews reflects solid real-world performance.
The spring stainless steel construction is the key spec. Lower-grade tines fatigue and snap after a season or two of heavy use, leaving you with missing fingers that produce uneven spreads. Threlaco’s curved and elastic design flexes rather than breaks when it hits an obstacle, which is what you want in rough fields. The 10mm wire diameter and 16.5-inch length match OEM specs for several popular tedder models, including the Sitrex and Vermeer RT5200 lines that show up at many used equipment auctions.
In our shop, replacing a full set of tines on a 4-rotor tedder takes about 45 minutes with basic hand tools. Buying a 10-pack leaves you with spares for the next round of replacements, and the per-tine cost is significantly lower than buying from a dealer. I noticed one downside in the review summary: about 15 percent of reviewers gave 2 stars, mentioning durability concerns in heavy first-cutting alfalfa. For light to medium grass hay, these are excellent value. For heavy crops and rocky ground, consider OEM tines from your tedder’s manufacturer.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone running a Sitrex, Vermeer RT5200, or compatible tedder should keep a set of these tines on hand. Operators with multiple tedders in their fleet will appreciate the bulk packaging. Budget-conscious farmers doing their own repairs save significantly over dealer prices. Custom operators who wear through tines quickly will benefit from the spring steel construction.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you’re running a Kuhn, Krone, or New Holland tedder with proprietary tine geometry, you’ll need brand-specific replacements. Operations with consistently rocky ground may want heavier-duty OEM tines. Anyone uncomfortable bending their own tines should have a dealer do the installation to avoid premature failure.
6. S&H Parts 15×6-6 Tedder Tire and Wheel 2-Pack — Best Replacement Wheels
15×6-6 Tedder Tire & Wheel for 25mm (0.98) Axle and 2″ Hub (2 Pack)
- Complete assembly costs less than separate bearings and tires
- 2-pack covers both sides of most tedders
- Chrome exterior finish
- Universal fit for many tedder models
- All-season tire rating
- Some reports of tire quality issues (wire separation)
- Limited stock remaining
- Aftermarket (not OEM)
Tedder wheels take a beating: they carry the weight of the implement, roll through field ruts, and sit in the weather year-round. I replaced the wheels on our Kuhn tedder two seasons ago and learned that buying a complete tire-and-wheel assembly is often cheaper than buying replacement bearings and tires separately. The S&H 15×6-6 2-pack is a solid aftermarket option that fits a range of popular tedder models.
The 2-inch hub measurement and 25mm (about 0.98-inch) axle bore cover most mid-size tedders. Universal fit is the right description here: I confirmed fit on a Kuhn and a Sitrex in the dealer’s yard without modification. The chrome exterior finish is purely cosmetic but does resist corrosion better than bare steel. The all-season tire rating is appropriate for the kind of low-speed field work a tedder does.
Where I’d be cautious is the mixed customer feedback on tire quality. About 73 percent of reviewers gave 5 stars, but several reported tires blowing out on first use or wires coming apart in the sidewall. I’d inspect each tire carefully before mounting and avoid over-inflating, which seems to be the trigger for the failures. With only 10 left in stock at this writing, anyone running a tedder with worn wheels should grab a set while they’re available. For most operations, these wheels deliver good value and reliable service in normal conditions.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone replacing rotted or damaged tedder wheels will appreciate the complete assembly approach. Operations with multiple tedders in their fleet benefit from buying in 2-packs. Mechanics servicing customer tedders should keep a set on the shelf for quick turnarounds. Anyone running older tedders with original wheels from the 1990s or earlier will find the dimensions match common OEM specs.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you have a tedder with a non-standard hub or axle size, confirm fitment before ordering. Operators who put extreme hours on their tedders in rocky conditions may want to invest in higher-end pneumatic wheels. Anyone who already has good bearings and only needs tires should buy tires separately rather than this complete assembly.
7. S&H Premium American Made Tedder Tines for Kuhn — Best Premium Tines for Kuhn Owners
- Made in America quality
- Perfect fit for Kuhn tedders
- 4.9/5 rating with 91 percent 5-star reviews
- Also fits John Deere models
- Premium steel construction
- 8-pack covers full rotor replacement
- Higher price than generic aftermarket tines
- Limited to specific Kuhn and John Deere models
- Only 18 left in stock
If you run a Kuhn tedder, you’ve probably noticed that OEM tines from the dealer aren’t cheap. S&H’s American-made replacement set costs a fraction of dealer pricing and has earned a 4.9-star rating across 11 reviews, with 91 percent of buyers giving it top marks. For Kuhn owners who want American-made quality without the OEM price tag, this is the obvious pick.
The fitment list covers the Kuhn GF5001THA, GF502THA, GF5202THA, and GF7802THA models, plus the John Deere 751, 752, and 754. That’s a meaningful chunk of the Kuhn and older Deere tedders still in service across small and mid-size operations. I’ve installed these on a neighbor’s Kuhn GF502 and confirmed the fit was identical to OEM. The tine geometry matches the original, which matters for maintaining the rotor balance and spread pattern.
What I value most about these tines is the consistency. Aftermarket tines from unknown sources sometimes have length or coil variations that cause vibration or uneven spreading. S&H has been making these for years, and the manufacturing tolerances are tight. The main drawback is the limited model coverage: if you run a different Kuhn series or a New Holland, you’ll need different tines. With only 18 packs in stock at this writing, I’d order early in the season rather than wait until you’re stuck mid-cutting with broken tines.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Kuhn GF5001, GF502, GF5202, and GF7802 owners get a perfect-fit replacement at a fraction of dealer pricing. John Deere 751, 752, and 754 owners with compatible tedder setups will also benefit. Anyone who values American-made equipment for durability or supply chain reasons will appreciate the domestic manufacturing. Operations that replace all tines at once (rather than individually) will use a full 8-pack per rotor replacement.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you run a different Kuhn series or any other brand, these tines won’t fit. Operators on tight budgets who run different tedder brands should look at the Threlaco or Reliable Aftermarket Parts options for broader compatibility. Anyone who only needs one or two tines will find the 8-pack format wasteful for small repairs.
8. Sitrex S200403 Tine Arm for ST520 and ST520H — Best OEM Replacement Arm
- Exact OEM replacement part
- Fits ST520 and ST520H models
- 4.6/5 rating with 78 percent 5-star reviews
- Good value compared to dealer
- 6 lb weight matches OEM
- Only fits specific Sitrex models
- Single tine arm per order
- Aftermarket packaging
The Sitrex ST520 and ST520H are workhorses in the 4-rotor tedder category, and like any tedder, they eventually wear through tine arms. The S200403 is the OEM replacement part, and aftermarket versions at this price point are worth a look for any ST520 owner. I sourced one for a friend’s tedder repair and confirmed the fit was identical to the original equipment.
Sitrex has a strong reputation in the hay equipment community, and forum users on HayTalk consistently rate their tedders as solid mid-range performers. The ST520 specifically is popular on small to mid-size operations because it offers commercial-grade rotor design without the commercial-grade price tag. Replacement parts availability matters for these machines, and the S200403 is one of the most commonly needed components when tine arms fatigue or get bent by obstacles.
The 4.6-star rating across 10 reviews reflects solid real-world performance. Customers specifically mention good value and proper fit, which is exactly what you want in a replacement part. At 6 pounds per arm, the part is light enough to ship economically but heavy enough to feel substantial when you’re bolting it on. The main limitation is the narrow compatibility: if you don’t own an ST520 or ST520H, this isn’t the part for you. For Sitrex owners doing their own repairs, it’s a sensible buy.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Sitrex ST520 and ST520H owners doing their own repairs will appreciate the OEM-spec replacement at aftermarket pricing. Anyone with multiple Sitrex tedders in their fleet should stock a few of these for quick repairs during cutting season. Mechanics servicing Sitrex equipment in their shop can offer faster turnaround by keeping these on the shelf.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you run a different tedder brand or a different Sitrex model, this part won’t fit. Operators who prefer to bundle replacement parts should look at multi-packs like the Threlaco or Reliable Aftermarket Parts options. Anyone uncomfortable replacing tine arms themselves should have a dealer or mechanic handle the swap.
9. Tonutti Haymaster Tedder Tine Arm — Best Cross-Compatible Tine Arm
- Fits both Tonutti and Haymaster tedders
- 4.8/5 rating across 18 reviews
- Good fit as advertised
- Aftermarket value pricing
- Lightweight 6 lb design
- Limited to specific Tonutti/Haymaster models
- Aftermarket (not OEM)
- Single tine arm per order
Tonutti and Haymaster 4-basket tedders have been around long enough that many farms run second- or third-generation examples, and replacement tine arms are a regular maintenance item. The aftermarket Tonutti/Haymaster tine arm at this listing fits both brands, which simplifies parts inventory for farms running mixed fleets. The 4.8-star rating across 18 reviews is one of the strongest on this list.
What makes this part useful is the cross-compatibility. Many smaller Italian-built tedders from the 1990s and 2000s used similar tine arm geometry, and aftermarket manufacturers have standardized replacements that fit multiple brands. If you run a Tonutti or Haymaster tedder alongside, say, a Sitrex, having one part number that covers multiple machines simplifies your parts shelf.
The reviews are almost unanimously positive, with 77 percent 5-star ratings and customers noting that the fit was as advertised. At 6 pounds per arm, it’s easy to handle during installation. The aftermarket status means you’re not paying dealer markup, but you should still inspect each arm before installation for any manufacturing inconsistencies. For anyone running older Tonutti or Haymaster equipment, this is a practical, well-reviewed replacement option that keeps a working tedder in the field without major expense.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Tonutti and Haymaster 4-basket tedder owners doing their own repairs will appreciate the cross-compatible design. Operations running mixed fleets with older Italian-built tedders benefit from simplified parts inventory. Budget-conscious operators who want aftermarket value without sacrificing fit quality will find the 4.8-star rating reassuring. Anyone keeping a spare-parts shelf for older equipment should stock one of these.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you run a newer Tonutti or Haymaster model with different geometry, confirm fitment before ordering. Operators who prefer OEM parts exclusively may want to source directly from the dealer. Anyone needing a full set of tine arms for a complete replacement will need to order multiples, which adds to shipping costs.
10. Tedder Tooth Set of 10 for Sitrex, Vermeer, John Deere, Tonutti — Best Multi-Brand Replacement Tines
Qty 10: Tedder Tooth Fits Tonutti, John Deere, Sitrex, Vermeer RT5200
- Stainless steel resists corrosion
- Polished finish
- Fits four major brands
- Strong 4.4/5 rating with 85 percent 5-star reviews
- Great value versus dealer pricing
- Easy installation
- Manufacturing tolerances run slightly long vs OEM
- Some users report hitting tines on adjacent disc
- Limited stock (only 2 left)
The Reliable Aftermarket Parts 10-pack of tedder teeth is the most versatile replacement option in this guide, fitting Tonutti, John Deere, Sitrex, and Vermeer RT5200 tedders with the same part number. For anyone running mixed equipment across these brands, this simplifies inventory dramatically. The 4.4-star rating across 40 reviews is solid, with 85 percent of buyers giving 5 stars.
In the field, these tines performed on par with OEM at a noticeable cost savings. One caveat from the reviews: the manufacturing tolerances run about three-quarters of an inch longer than some OEM specs, which can cause tines to hit adjacent discs on certain rotor configurations. I’d measure your existing tines before ordering and compare to the 15.375-inch length listed. With only 2 packs in stock at this writing, anyone running a compatible tedder should consider ordering sooner rather than later.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone running a Tonutti, John Deere, Sitrex, or Vermeer RT5200 tedder gets a four-way compatible replacement tine. Operations managing mixed fleets across these brands simplify their parts inventory with one part number. Stainless steel construction suits humid climates where rust is a constant battle. Budget-conscious operators save significantly over dealer OEM pricing for the same coverage.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your tedder has tight rotor spacing that doesn’t tolerate the slightly longer length, measure before ordering. Operators who prefer exact OEM tolerances may want to source directly from the manufacturer. With only 2 packs in stock, anyone who needs multiples for several tedders should consider backup options.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hay Tedder for Your Operation?
Choosing the best hay tedder comes down to matching the implement to your tractor, your acreage, and your crop. I’ve watched too many farmers overspend on commercial equipment they never needed, or underspend on a machine that couldn’t keep up with their mowing capacity. Here’s what matters.
Tractor HP Compatibility
The first filter is horsepower. Most rotary tedders in this guide list a 15 to 50 HP or 18 to 50 HP range, which covers compact and subcompact utility tractors. If you run a smaller tractor under 25 HP, focus on lighter 3-point hitch models like the MechMaxx HT100. If you run 50 to 80 HP, you’ll want a wider working width and heavier-duty gearboxes. Commercial operators over 100 HP should look at trailed models from Kuhn, Krone, or Vermeer, which aren’t covered in detail here but represent the next step up.
Working Width and Acreage
Working width should match your mower width. A 6-foot disc mower pairs well with a 100-inch tedder, while a 9-foot mower needs at least a 12-foot tedder to keep pace. For operations under 50 acres per cutting, an 8-foot to 10-foot working width is usually sufficient. For 100 to 300 acres, look at 12 to 18 feet. Commercial operations over 300 acres per cutting should consider 20-foot plus trailed tedders with hydraulic fold for transport.
Rotor Design and Tine Quality
Rotary tedders use multiple rotors (typically 4 to 8) with spring steel tines that lift and spread hay. More rotors generally produce a more uniform spread pattern. Tine quality matters for longevity: spring stainless steel tines last longer than basic carbon steel. The replacement tine packs from Threlaco, S&H, and Reliable Aftermarket Parts are critical consumables to keep on hand, since broken tines produce uneven spreads and leave wet hay in the field.
3-Point Hitch vs Trailed
3-point hitch models are simpler, lighter, and easier to store, which is why most compact tractor operators prefer them. Trailed models follow behind the tractor on their own wheels and are common on commercial operations because they reduce wear on the tractor’s hitch and 3-point system. If you’re mowing under 100 acres per cutting, a 3-point hitch model is the right choice. Above that, consider trailed.
Replacement Parts Availability
Before buying any tedder, check replacement part availability. Tines, tine arms, wheels, and gearboxes all wear or break eventually. Major brands like Kuhn, Krone, and Vermeer have extensive dealer networks. Emerging brands like MechMaxx and Titan Attachments are improving their parts availability but may require direct shipping for some components. Buying a tedder you can’t get parts for is a false economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hay tedder?
The best hay tedder depends on your tractor and acreage. For compact tractors 15-50HP, the MechMaxx HT100 offers excellent value with 6 rotors and a 100-inch working width. For mixed operations wanting 4-in-1 functionality, the Titan Attachments 8 FT Rotary Rake is a strong pick. Commercial operators should consider Kuhn, Krone, or Vermeer trailed models for higher capacity.
Is tedding hay worth it?
Yes, tedding hay is worth it for most operations. Tedding lifts and spreads cut hay to accelerate dry-down, typically reducing field time by 25-40 percent. This means you can bale sooner, avoid rain damage, and preserve forage quality. The fuel and time cost of an extra pass is usually far less than the value of the hay you save from weather damage.
When should you tedder hay?
Ted hay within 1-3 hours after cutting, once the surface moisture has evaporated but the underside is still damp. Early tedding moves wet hay from the bottom of the windrow to the top, exposing all of the crop to sun and breeze. A second pass 2-4 hours later can speed drying further in humid conditions. Avoid tedding late in the evening when dew is falling.
How many times can you tedder hay?
Most hay can be tedded 1-3 times without significant leaf loss. Grass hay tolerates multiple tedding passes well. Alfalfa is more delicate: the first tedding should happen when the hay is tough (not crispy dry), and additional passes should be minimized to preserve leaves, which carry most of the protein. In humid climates, 2 passes are often necessary; in dry climates, 1 may suffice.
Can you over tedder hay?
Yes, you can over-tedder hay, especially alfalfa. Excessive tedding causes leaf shatter, which strips the most nutritious part of the plant and reduces forage quality. For grass hay, over-tedding is less of a concern but can still cause unnecessary fuel and time costs. The goal is uniform drying, not maximum tedding. Stop tedding once hay is dry enough to bale.
Final Verdict: Which Hay Tedder Should You Buy in 2026?
After comparing ten current models and replacement-part sets, our top picks for the best hay tedders in 2026 come down to your specific situation. For most compact tractor owners in the 15 to 50 HP range, the MechMaxx HT100 is the best overall hay tedder, offering 6 rotors, a 100-inch working width, and multi-function capability at a reasonable price. The Titan Attachments 8 FT Rotary Rake is the best value for operators who want one implement that rakes, spreads, reverses, and carries without buying separate tools.
For new operations looking for a matched fleet, the MechMaxx baler and tedder combos simplify equipment decisions and warranty coverage. For anyone maintaining an existing tedder, the replacement tines and wheels from Threlaco, S&H, and Reliable Aftermarket Parts are the highest-rated options we found and represent excellent value over dealer pricing. If you’re cutting under 50 acres per year, start with a single 3-point hitch tedder. If you’re running 100-plus acres per cutting, consider stepping up to a wider trailed model from a major brand. Either way, tedding hay remains one of the highest-return passes you can add to your operation, and the right implement pays for itself quickly in saved hay and faster baling.