Can This John Deere 1207 Hay Conditioner Be Saved? A Restoration Journey

A recent acquisition from an estate sale has brought a very used John Deere 1207 Hay Conditioner into the spotlight. The picker, aiming to upgrade from an old sickle mower, stumbled upon this piece of equipment through a local dealership. Its condition, however, leaves much to be desired. This article will delve into the state of the John Deere 1207 and the efforts to revive it for the upcoming hay season.

The John Deere 1207 Hay Conditioner, though seemingly fine at first glance, reveals its true condition upon closer inspection. Bentley, the assistant for the day, joins the restoration effort, bringing a couple of crucial parts to the project. The machine is notably bent and dented, resembling something that might have taken a tumble off a cliff or collided with numerous obstacles. It's clear that this hay conditioner has seen better days.

Despite its rough exterior, the plan is to restore the John Deere 1207 to working condition. The goal is to use it in larger areas where its speed and efficiency will be beneficial, contrasting with the older 50s equipment like sickle bar mowers and roll bar rakes still in regular use. The hay conditioner’s ability to windrow hay and its integrated rollers make it an attractive tool for the job, provided it can be fixed.

Examining the machine, it’s evident that it needs extensive work, from the shot tires to various mechanical components. The hope is that with some effort, the hay conditioner can cut without leaving strips and perform reliably. Currently set in road mode, the machine lacks the hydraulic arm seen in newer models. Instead, it relies on a manual setup involving a bent bolt and a sliding mechanism to adjust the pickup.

Key features of this John Deere 1207 include a clutch, a wobbler arm, and a belt. These components, though basic, are crucial to its operation and will need thorough inspection and possibly replacement. As the restoration process begins, it becomes a learning experience for those unfamiliar with such equipment, offering insights into its mechanics and functionality.

For those interested in seeing this restoration journey unfold, the full video is available on Vice Grip Garage’s YouTube channel. Watch as the team navigates the challenges of bringing this vintage hay conditioner back to life, turning a seemingly hopeless piece of machinery into a valuable asset for the hay season.

Explore more restoration projects and find exclusive merchandise at [Vice Grip Garage's website](https://www.vicegripgarage.com).