A **tractor finger wheel hay rake** is a type of agricultural equipment designed to gather and arrange cut hay into rows for easier collection, typically for baling. It consists of several rotating wheels with fingers (or tines) that pick up the hay and move it to the side, forming windrows. This equipment is called a “finger wheel rake” because of the finger-like tines on the wheels that handle the hay.

### Key Features
1. **Finger Wheels**: The tines are usually spaced apart to allow for efficient raking while minimizing damage to the hay.
2. **Adjustable Height**: Many models allow for adjusting the height and angle to suit different types of terrain and hay conditions.
3. **Attachment for a Tractor**: The rake is typically mounted to the three-point hitch of a tractor, making it easy to operate.

### How to Use a Tractor Finger Wheel Hay Rake

1. **Preparation**:
– Ensure the rake is properly attached to the tractor and that all safety checks are completed.
– Adjust the rake’s height and angle to ensure optimal contact with the ground.

2. **Setting the Working Width**:
– Depending on the model, adjust the working width of the rake to match the width of the swath you wish to collect.

3. **Operating the Rake**:
– Start driving the tractor at a consistent speed. The wheels of the rake should spin and pick up the hay.
– Move at a speed that allows the rake to effectively gather the hay without leaving behind any material.

4. **Making Passes**:
– Drive parallel to the windrows, making multiple passes if needed to gather all the hay.
– Make sure to overlap slightly with previous passes to ensure all hay is collected.

5. **Windrowing**:
– The rake will form the collected hay into neat rows, or windrows, making it ready for bailing or further processing.

6. **Turning**:
– Practice on straight paths first, and then become comfortable making turns. Ensure you lift the rake slightly while turning to prevent breaking tines or damaging the rake.

7. **Maintenance**:
– Regularly check for wear and tear on the tines and wheels, and replace any damaged parts as needed.
– Lubricate moving parts periodically to keep the rake in good condition.

### Safety Precautions
– Always wear appropriate protective gear when operating equipment.
– Be aware of your surroundings and keep bystanders at a safe distance when using the rake.
– Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for operation and maintenance.

Overall, using a tractor finger wheel hay rake can significantly speed up the hay collection process, making it easier to prepare hay for storage or livestock feeding.