South African farmers facing early seasonal rains and weed pressures now have a highly adaptable solution with the Jakkals modular agricultural roller (locally known as a roleg). Developed by Jakkals Landbou Toerusting, the implement is engineered to provide ultimate flexibility on the farm, allowing producers to easily adjust the machine for different tractors, row spacings, and crop types.
According to Toit Barnard, spokesperson for Jakkals Landbou Toerusting, the development of the roller was driven by direct market research and the necessity for effective weed control during the windy period from August to November. Early rains mean early weeds, and rolling them out is critical before the late-season winds arrive.
A standout feature of the new implement is its modular hitch system. Barnard explains that the hitch points can be shifted laterally by simply loosening two bolts, enabling the roller to be attached to a wide variety of tractors—including smaller models—without being kilowatt-sensitive. This allows farmers to quickly swap the implement between different machines as an afterthought during busy planting seasons.
The roller’s carriage is equally versatile. While the standard setup accommodates specific row widths, the modular design allows farmers to shift the rows from a 7-row configuration to a 9-row setup at 91cm spacing. For farmers utilizing 76cm row spacings, the design allows for the removal of specific wheels using spacers, enabling the machine to run on just three rows if desired. Furthermore, the standard wheel carriage features individual springs for each wheel, granting operators the ability to adjust the depth of each wheel independently. This ensures that outer or inner wheels can be set to different aggressiveness levels depending on the furrow conditions.
To accommodate different crops, such as beans or sunflowers, which require a gentler touch, the roller’s aggressiveness can be easily modified. Barnard notes that by simply removing six bolts, the wheel can be reversed. One direction provides an aggressive action that lifts and breaks hard soil crusts by throwing the soil into the air. When reversed, it offers a smoother, less aggressive roll that follows the soil contour, which is ideal for delicate crops.
The entire system is supported by a robust, heavy-duty frame featuring a 150x150mm steel beam with a 10mm wall thickness. Barnard emphasizes that the company does not compromise on steel quality. This solid beam can be purchased separately, allowing farmers to transfer existing wheel carriages to a new frame for future pre-plant or tine implement conversions.
Jakkals Landbou Toerusting offers extensive customization for the roller. Configurations range up to 12 rows on 91cm spacing (approximately 10 meters wide), with options for folding or fixed frames. The company’s design philosophy ensures that bespoke requests for non-standard row spacings can also be easily accommodated.
For more information on the Jakkals modular agricultural roller or to discuss custom farming requirements, farmers can contact Toit Barnard directly at 082 492 3381.
