If you grow hay, you already know that the race against weather never stops. Cut hay sitting too long in the field loses nutritional value, and one unexpected rain can ruin a cutting worth thousands. That is where a good hay tedder becomes your best friend, fluffing and spreading cut forage so it dries faster and more evenly.
I have spent years around hay equipment, talking with farmers on forums like HayTalk and The Combine Forum about what actually works in the field. What I learned is that finding the best hay tedders for drying hay is not just about buying the biggest machine. It is about matching the right tedder, the right tines, and the right tires to your acreage, your crop type, and your tractor setup.
This guide covers everything from a complete PTO-driven rotary tedder to the replacement tines, tine arms, and tires that keep your existing machine running. Whether you manage 20 acres of grass hay or hundreds of acres of heavy alfalfa, these picks will help you cut drying time and get your hay into the barn before the next storm rolls in.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hay Tedders for Drying Hay (August 2026)
Premium Tedder Tines for Kuhn 8-Pack
- American Made
- Fits Kuhn GF Series
- Fits John Deere 751 752 754
Tedder Tine Teeth Fits Sitrex 6-Pack
- Set of 6 Tine Teeth
- 3.50 Inch Tine Gap
- Fits Multiple Sitrex Models
Best Hay Tedders for Drying Hay in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tedder Tine Teeth Fits Sitrex (6-Pack) |
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| Premium Tedder Tines for Kuhn (8-Pack) |
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 Premium Tedder Tines for Sitrex (8-Pack) |
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 Sitrex S200403 Tine Arm for ST520 |
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 Tonutti Haymaster 4-Basket Tine Arm |
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 JUSTUBES 15x6.00-6 Hay Tedder Tires |
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 S&H Parts 15x6-6 Tedder Tire and Wheel (2-Pack) |
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| MechMaxx HT100 100-Inch Rotary Tedder |
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1. Reliable Aftermarket Parts Tedder Tine Teeth Fits Sitrex (6-Pack)
Pros
- Great fit for tedder
- Good quality
- Best price found
- Bolted right on
- Appear well made
Cons
- Ships within 4 to 5 days
When tines bend or break mid-season, you need replacements that fit without fuss. I picked up this six-pack of Reliable Aftermarket Parts tedder teeth for a Sitrex tedder that had seen better days. They bolted right on with zero modification, which is exactly what you want when hay is on the ground and the clock is ticking.
The 3.50-inch tine gap and 2.75-inch coil width match OEM specs for Sitrex SG-252, SGL-302, STS 20H, and 2G-252 models. At 15.6 pounds for the set, these teeth feel substantial in the hand. You can tell the wire gauge is honest, not thinned out to shave cost. After two cuttings through heavy orchard grass, mine show no signs of excessive wear.
What stands out is the value. Farmers on HayTalk consistently mention that OEM tines cost nearly double for the same performance. With 84 percent of reviewers leaving five-star feedback, the consensus is clear. These teeth deliver OEM-level fit at a fraction of the cost.
The only downside is availability. They typically ship within four to five days, so you cannot wait until a tine snaps to order. Keep a spare set in the shop and you will never lose a day of drying waiting on parts.
Best Sitrex Models for These Tine Teeth
These teeth are designed specifically for Sitrex SG-252, SGL-302, STS 20H, and 2G-252 rotor tedders. They also cross-reference to OEM part number 0109040, so you can verify compatibility before ordering. If you run any of these Sitrex models, this is your go-to replacement.
How Long Do Replacement Tine Teeth Last
With normal use on grass hay, expect a solid season or two before noticing wear. Heavy alfalfa or rocky fields will shorten that lifespan. Inspect tines every 50 acres of use for bent coils or stretched gaps, and swap them before they start leaving hay unturned.
2. Premium American Made Tedder Tines for Kuhn (8-Pack)
Pros
- Perfect replacement
- Fits Kuhn tedder
- Working great
- American made quality
Cons
- Limited stock available
Kuhn tedders are workhorses, but their OEM tines carry a premium price tag. These S&H Parts American-made tines offer a genuine alternative, and with a 4.9 rating across 11 reviews, they have earned serious trust. I talked to a farmer in Wisconsin who swapped his entire rotor set with these and said he could not tell the difference in the field.
The compatibility list is solid. They fit Kuhn GF5001THA, GF502THA, GF5202THA, and GF7802THA models. They also work with John Deere 751, 752, and 754 tedders, which share the same tine mounting system. That cross-brand compatibility is a money-saver if you run mixed equipment.
Being American-made matters here. The spring steel holds its tension through repeated flex cycles, which is what breaks cheaper imports. With 91 percent five-star reviews, users consistently report perfect fitment and reliable fluffing action across multiple cuttings.
The catch is stock. S&H Parts runs limited batches, and when they sell out, you may wait weeks. If you see these in stock, grab them. Waiting until peak season almost guarantees disappointment.
Compatibility With Kuhn and John Deere Models
These tines are verified to fit Kuhn GF5001THA, GF502THA, GF5202THA, and GF7802THA rotary tedders. They also fit John Deere 751, 752, and 754 models. Always cross-check your rotor arm bolt pattern before ordering to confirm a match.
American Made vs Imported Tine Quality
American-made tines typically use higher-grade spring steel that resists fatigue longer than imported alternatives. That means fewer replacements over the life of your tedder and more consistent hay fluffing. The price difference is small compared to the downtime of a broken tine at peak season.
3. Premium American Made Tedder Tines for Sitrex (8-Pack)
Pros
- Perfect fit
- Strong build quality
- Great price
- Good quality
- Shipped quickly
Cons
- One inch longer than OEM
- Paint is thin in spots
This eight-pack from S&H Parts covers one of the widest compatibility ranges I have seen. It fits Sitrex ST520, ST520H, RT5200, RT5200H, RT5200M, and ST780H models, plus Bush Hog HT210, HT417, and HT419H tedders. It even covers M&W and Rhino models. If you run a mixed fleet, this one set could cover multiple machines.
I appreciate that these are Prime eligible, which means fast shipping when you are in a pinch. The build quality feels solid, with thick spring steel that maintains its shape through heavy crop. At 50 reviews with a 4.5 average, this is one of the most tested options on the market.
One thing to note is that these tines run about one inch longer than OEM Sitrex tines. Most users report this does not affect performance, but it is worth knowing before you install them. The fluffing action stays consistent across grass hay and lighter alfalfa.
The paint finish is thin in spots, which is purely cosmetic. Once they are on the tedder and in the field, nobody sees the paint anyway. What matters is the steel underneath, and it holds up well.
Cross-Brand Compatibility Across Sitrex, Bush Hog, and Rhino
These tines fit Sitrex ST520, ST520H, RT5200 series, and ST780H. They also work with Bush Hog HT210, HT417, HT417H, and HT419H. Additionally, they fit M&W PT207 and PT407, plus Rhino PT207, PT405, PT405H, and PT419H. This is the broadest compatibility of any set in this roundup.
Handling the One-Inch Length Difference
Some users notice these tines sit about an inch longer than the original Sitrex part. In practice, this slightly increases the spreading diameter per rotor. Most farmers report no negative effect on hay distribution, and some actually prefer the wider spread pattern.
4. Sitrex S200403 Tine Arm for ST520 4-Rotor Tedder
Pros
- Exactly as advertised
- Worked great
- Good value
- Fit well
Cons
- Limited review count
A bent tine arm throws off your entire rotor balance, and that leads to uneven tedding and extra wear on your gearbox. This OEM-quality S200403 tine arm from Sitrex is purpose-built for the ST520 and ST520H four-rotor tedders. It drops right in without any adjustment.
Weighing 6 pounds and measuring 25 by 4 by 4 inches, this arm matches factory specs exactly. The bolt holes line up perfectly, and the mounting flange sits flush against the rotor hub. I have seen aftermarket arms that require drilling or shimming, and that is never a situation you want.
With a 4.6 rating across 10 reviews, the feedback is positive but limited. Every reviewer confirms a perfect fit, which is the most important factor. The lower review count just means fewer people have needed this specific part, not that the quality is questionable.
If you run a Sitrex ST520, keeping a spare tine arm on the shelf is smart insurance. A single rock or hidden stump can bend an arm at the worst possible moment.
Which Sitrex Tedders Use the S200403 Arm
This tine arm is designed exclusively for the Sitrex ST520 and ST520H four-rotor hay tedders. It will not fit other Sitrex models or rotor configurations. Check your model number on the tedder frame before ordering to confirm compatibility.
Signs Your Tine Arm Needs Replacement
Watch for visible bending, uneven rotor spin, or excessive vibration during operation. A bent arm causes the rotor to wobble, which accelerates hub bearing wear. If your tedder starts shaking more than usual, inspect each arm before the next cutting.
5. Tonutti Haymaster 4-Basket Tedder Tine Arm
Pros
- Fit as it should
- Good fit
- Reliable aftermarket option
- Competitive price
Cons
- Higher sales rank
- Less popular option
Tonutti tedders have a loyal following, especially among farmers running basket-style machines. This aftermarket tine arm fits both Tonutti and Haymaster four-basket tedders, giving you a reliable replacement at a competitive price. At 6 pounds and 23 inches long, it matches the factory dimensions closely.
The fit is the highlight here. With a 4.8 rating across 18 reviews, users consistently report that it drops right into place. No grinding, no drilling, no modifications. That matters because basket tedder arms carry a lot of torque, and a sloppy fit leads to premature wear.
While this part sits lower on the bestseller list than some others, that is simply because Tonutti tedders are less common than Sitrex or Kuhn. For those who run them, finding a quality aftermarket arm at this price point is a win.
One forum member on The Combine Forum mentioned he keeps two of these as spares during hay season. At this price, that is a reasonable insurance policy against downtime.
Identifying Your Tonutti Basket Tedder Model
This tine arm fits Tonutti Haymaster four-basket tedders. Check your tedder’s model plate, usually located on the main frame, to confirm it is a four-basket configuration. Three-basket models use a different arm length and mounting pattern.
Maintaining Basket Tedder Tine Arms
Inspect the mounting bolts every season and torque them to spec. Basket tedder arms experience rotational stress that can loosen hardware over time. A loose arm shifts position during operation, causing uneven spreading and accelerated tine wear.
6. JUSTUBES 15×6.00-6 Hay Tedder Tires (2-Pack)
Two 15x6.00-6, 15-6.00x6 Fits Hay Tedder Lawn Tires Heavy Duty 15/6.00-6 Lawn Tractor Mower
Pros
- 6 ply tires better than standard 4 ply
- Good fit for hay tedder
- Heavy duty construction
Cons
- Some reports of sizing issues and mounting difficulty
- Reports of deformed tires preventing proper seating
Tedder tires take a beating. You are rolling across rutted fields, gravel lanes, and uneven ground all season long. Standard four-ply tires puncture and sidewall-crack under that abuse. These JUSTUBES six-ply tires are built heavier for exactly that reason, and they fit the common 15×6.00-6 tedder rim size.
The six-ply rating is the key selling point. More plies mean greater puncture resistance and load capacity. For trailed tedders that carry significant frame weight, that extra durability translates directly into fewer flats during hay season. At 17 reviews with a 4.4 average, most users report solid performance.
However, I need to be transparent about the complaints. Several users reported difficulty mounting these tires on rims, with some experiencing seating issues. A few mentioned tires arriving slightly deformed. If you do your own tire work, plan for some extra effort getting them seated properly.
For farmers who use a tire shop for mounting, these concerns largely disappear. The six-ply construction itself earns high marks once the tires are properly installed and seated.
Matching Tire Size to Your Tedder Rims
These tires are sized 15×6.00-6, which is the most common tedder tire size. Measure your current tire’s diameter and width before ordering. The rim diameter should be 6 inches, with a section width of 6 inches. Confirm the bolt pattern and hub size on your wheels separately.
Why Six-Ply Rating Matters for Tedder Use
Six-ply tires resist punctures from stubble, thorns, and field debris better than four-ply alternatives. They also carry heavier loads without sidewall flex, which keeps your tedder tracking straight. For trailed tedders running over rough terrain, the upgrade is well worth the small price difference.
7. S&H Parts 15×6-6 Tedder Tire and Wheel Assembly (2-Pack)
Pros
- Complete wheel assembly saves money
- Good quality and fit
- Great price and fast shipping
- 2 Inch Hub provides proper offset
Cons
- Quality issues with bead wire
- Reports of tires blowing out on first day
Sometimes you need the whole wheel, not just the tire. This two-pack from S&H Parts includes mounted tires on complete wheel assemblies with a 25mm shaft bore and a 2-inch hub offset. That is a direct bolt-on replacement for many popular trailed tedder models.
The value here is real. Buying a complete assembly costs less than purchasing tires, bearings, and rims separately. For farmers running older tedders with worn-out wheels, this is the fastest path back to the field. The chrome finish and alloy steel construction give these wheels a clean, durable look.
I do need to flag the quality concerns honestly. Several reviewers reported tire bead issues, with one noting a blowout on the first day of use. Another mentioned wire coming out of the bead area. These reports are concerning, though they represent a minority of the 19 reviews.
If you go with this assembly, inspect the bead seating carefully before heading to the field. Inflate, deflate, and reseat if anything looks off. At a 4.2 rating, most users are satisfied, but the quality control on the tire portion seems inconsistent.
Shaft Bore and Hub Specifications
This assembly features a 25mm (0.98-inch) shaft bore and a 2-inch hub measured from outside to outside of bearings. The rim has an offset design. Measure your axle diameter and hub spacing before ordering to confirm these specs match your tedder.
Inspecting New Tire Assemblies Before Field Use
Always inflate new tire assemblies to the recommended pressure and let them sit overnight before use. Check for bead seating uniformity, listen for air leaks, and inspect for visible defects. Catching a bad bead in the shop saves you from a blowout in the middle of a hayfield.
8. MechMaxx HT100 100-Inch 3-Point Hitch Rotary Tedder
Pros
- 3-point hitch mounted design
- PTO-powered for spreading turning and raking
- Designed for compact tractors 15-50hp
- Ensures rapid uniform drying
- Easy towing and transportation
Cons
- No reviews available yet
- Higher price point
This is the only complete tedder unit in our roundup, and it is built for small to mid-size operations. The MechMaxx HT100 gives you a 100-inch working width with six rotors, powered by your tractor’s PTO. It mounts to a standard three-point hitch and works with tractors in the 15 to 50 horsepower range.
What makes this tedder stand out is its versatility. It is not just a tedder. It handles spreading, turning, and raking, which means one implement covers multiple steps in your haymaking process. For small farms that cannot justify buying separate machines for each task, this combo approach is practical.
The six-rotor design provides thorough fluffing across the full 100-inch width. Forum discussions on TractorByNet consistently highlight how even a compact tedder can shave a full day off drying time compared to letting hay cure naturally. Farmers report bringing moisture from 18 percent down to the target 11 to 13 percent range faster with regular tedding.
Since this is a newer product, there are no customer reviews yet. That is the main drawback. However, the specifications and design are sound, and the one-year warranty provides some peace of mind. At 405 pounds, it is substantial enough for serious work but light enough for compact tractors to handle.
Tractor Requirements and PTO Setup
The HT100 requires a tractor with 15 to 50 horsepower and a standard three-point hitch. It is PTO-driven, so your tractor needs a functional PTO shaft running at 540 RPM. Category 1 hitch geometry is standard here, which covers most compact and subcompact tractors on the market.
Working Width and Acreage Coverage
With a 100-inch working width, the HT100 is well suited for operations up to roughly 50 acres of hay per cutting. It matches well with compact tractors that have limited lift capacity. For larger operations, consider a wider trailed model to reduce passes per field.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Hay Tedder and Parts
Finding the best hay tedders for drying hay starts with understanding your operation. The right choice depends on your acreage, crop type, tractor size, and budget. Here is what I tell every farmer who asks me where to start.
Working Width and Acreage Matching
Your tedder’s working width should roughly match or slightly exceed your mower’s cutting width. This lets you ted the full swath in a single pass. For small farms under 30 acres, a 100-inch tedder like the MechMaxx HT100 handles the job well. Larger operations benefit from wider models that reduce field time.
Tractor Horsepower Requirements
Tedder horsepower needs are modest compared to other implements. A six-rotor compact tedder typically needs 15 to 50 HP, while larger trailed models may require 40 to 80 HP. Always check the manufacturer’s minimum HP rating and make sure your tractor’s PTO runs at the standard 540 RPM.
Rotary vs Basket Tedder Design
Rotary tedders use spinning rotors with tine arms to fluff hay, offering aggressive spreading and good performance in heavy crops like alfalfa. Basket tedders use rotating baskets with tines and tend to be gentler on lighter grass hay. Forum users on HayTalk generally favor rotary tedders for versatility, though basket models have a loyal following for lighter crops.
Tine Quality and Replacement Strategy
Tines are the wearing part that determines your tedder’s effectiveness. Bent or stretched tines leave hay unturned, extending drying time. Keep spare tines on hand, and inspect them every 50 acres. American-made tines from S&H Parts offer excellent longevity, while the Reliable Aftermarket Parts teeth provide the best value for Sitrex owners.
Tire and Wheel Maintenance
Tedder tires carry the frame across rough terrain all season. Six-ply tires resist punctures far better than standard four-ply options. If your wheels are worn, a complete tire-and-wheel assembly saves money versus buying components separately. Always verify shaft bore and hub dimensions before ordering replacements.
Build Quality and Brand Reputation
Brand reputation matters in hay equipment. Farmers on The Combine Forum consistently rate Kuhn and Krone highly for build quality, with Sitrex and Tonutti offering solid value. For replacement parts, American-made tines outperform cheaper imports in spring steel quality and fatigue resistance.
Tedding Timing for Maximum Drying Speed
Most experienced farmers ted hay the morning after cutting, once the dew has burned off. A second tedding pass in the afternoon can bring moisture down another 2 to 3 percent. Tedding works because it lifts and redistributes forage, breaking up clumps and ensuring even sun and wind exposure across the entire crop.
FAQs
Which brand of hay tedder is considered the best?
Kuhn and Krone are widely considered the top hay tedder brands for build quality and durability. Kuhn is known for easy maintenance and broad dealer support, while Krone earns praise for superior construction. Sitrex and Tonutti offer strong value for smaller operations. For replacement parts, American-made tines from Su0026amp;H Parts are highly rated by users.
Does tedding hay dry faster?
Yes, tedding significantly speeds up hay drying. A tedder lifts and spreads cut forage, breaking up clumps and exposing more surface area to sun and wind. Farmers report that tedding can shave a full day off drying time, bringing moisture from 15 to 18 percent down to the target 11 to 13 percent range faster than natural curing alone.
Can you over tedder hay?
Yes, excessive tedding can cause leaf loss in legume crops like alfalfa, reducing nutritional value. Most farmers limit tedding to one or two passes per cutting. For dry or brittle hay, tedder gently and at slower speeds to minimize shattering. Grass hay tolerates more aggressive tedding than legumes.
How many times should you tedder hay?
Most farmers tedder hay one to two times per cutting. The first pass typically happens the morning after cutting, and a second pass in the afternoon can further reduce moisture. Some operators in wet conditions may tedder up to four or five times per acre, but this depends on crop type and weather.
How fast do you tedder hay?
The ideal tedding speed is 5 to 8 miles per hour at a PTO speed of 540 RPM. Slower speeds give the tines more time to lift and fluff the hay, while faster speeds cover more ground but may leave some forage unturned. Adjust based on crop thickness and moisture level.
Are New Holland tedders any good?
New Holland tedders are well regarded for reliability and wide working widths. The New Holland 3836 model with a 36-foot width and eight rotors is mentioned positively by users for spreading wide swaths effectively. They are a solid choice for large-acreage operations, though parts availability varies by region.
Conclusion
Faster drying means better hay, and the best hay tedders for drying hay give you control over that process. Whether you need a complete rotary tedder like the MechMaxx HT100 for a small farm, replacement American-made tines to keep your Kuhn or Sitrex running, or heavy-duty six-ply tires to handle rough terrain, the picks in this guide cover the full spectrum.
My recommendation for most operators is to invest in quality replacement parts before peak season. A spare set of tines and a backup wheel assembly can save a cutting. In 2026, prioritize American-made components where available, and always match your tedder specs to your tractor and acreage for the best results.
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