Production years
Approx. 1968-1977 (about July 1968 to July 1977; confirm by serial number)
New Holland baler ยท Approximately 1968-1977 (produced roughly July 1968 to July 1977 per New Holland dealer parts records; confirm individual units by serial number)
New Holland 273 Baler
The New Holland 273 is a PTO-driven small square baler from the classic "Hayliner" line, produced roughly from the late 1960s into the late 1970s (about 1968 to 1977, when it was replaced by the 310). It makes conventional rectangular ("small square") bales with a 14 by 18 inch cross-section and adjustable length, tied with two twine knotters. It earned a lasting reputation as a simple, durable, easy-to-service baler that remains popular on small hay operations today.
Baler type
Small square baler, PTO-driven, flywheel plunger
Bale size
14 x 18 in cross-section; length adjustable
Power required
Roughly 25-35 PTO hp practical minimum (some sources cite 25 hp; comfortable with about 35 hp or more)
New Holland 273 specifications
| Production years | Approx. 1968-1977 (about July 1968 to July 1977; confirm by serial number) |
|---|---|
| Baler type | Small square baler, PTO-driven, flywheel plunger |
| Bale size | 14 x 18 in cross-section; length adjustable |
| Pickup width | About 60 in (commonly cited; confirm with manual) |
| Power required | Roughly 25-35 PTO hp practical minimum (some sources cite 25 hp; comfortable with about 35 hp or more) |
| Weight | Approximately 2,500 lb (approximate) |
| Tying | Two twine knotters (twine tie; wire tie was optional on some units) |
| Bale chamber | Fixed rectangular chamber, reciprocating plunger |
What the 273 is used for
The 273 was designed to put up dry hay in manageable, hand-stackable bales for small to mid-size operations. It suits grass hay, alfalfa, and mixed forage, and was sized to pair with the compact utility tractors of its era, making it a practical one-tractor baling solution for family farms and horse operations.
Today owners value the 273 for exactly the same reasons. It remains a favorite among small-acreage hay growers, horse owners, and hobby farmers who want conventional twine bales rather than large rounds. Many surviving units are still in regular service, and their straightforward mechanical design makes them approachable for owner maintenance and field repairs.
Why the New Holland 273 stands out
The 273 is notable for its simplicity, durability, and strong long-term support. Its knotter and pickup design were widely used across New Holland small square balers of the period, so mechanics are familiar with it and many wear parts and rebuild kits remain available through dealers and aftermarket suppliers. That parts availability, combined with a reputation for reliable knotting and a proven plunger drive, has kept resale demand steady for a machine of its age. For buyers wanting conventional small square bales on a modest budget and modest tractor, it is one of the most commonly recommended used options.
Buying a used New Holland 273
Inspect the wear points that decide whether a used 273 is a bargain or a project. Watch the knotters closely, since worn twine discs, billhooks, and knife blades cause misties and missed knots; if possible, watch it tie several bales in real hay rather than trusting a static demo. Check the needles for straightness and proper timing, and confirm twine tension is adjustable and holding. Look over the pickup for missing or bent teeth and worn pickup bearings, listen for knocks in the plunger and flywheel area (worn plunger bearings and slides are costly), and verify the flywheel shear bolt and slip clutch are correct and not bypassed. Finally, examine the driveline (PTO shaft, gearbox for oil leaks or play) and the various drive chains and sprockets for stretch and wear. Any figure such as required PTO horsepower, pickup width, or weight should be confirmed against the operator manual or a New Holland dealer for the specific serial number.
New Holland 273 frequently asked questions
What size bales does the New Holland 273 make?
It makes conventional small square bales with a 14 by 18 inch cross-section, and the bale length is adjustable. Actual weight per bale depends on crop, moisture, and density settings.
How much PTO horsepower do I need to run a 273?
A commonly cited practical minimum is roughly 25 to 35 PTO horsepower, which matches the compact tractors of its era; many owners run it comfortably on a tractor of about 35 horsepower or more. Confirm the exact requirement for your conditions against the operator manual or a dealer, since heavy or damp windrows demand more.
Is the 273 a good baler, and are parts still available?
Yes, it is widely regarded as a simple, reliable small square baler that is still in active use, which is why it stays in demand. Because its knotter and pickup design were shared across New Holland balers of the period, many wear parts and rebuild kits remain available through dealers and aftermarket suppliers. The most common issues to check are knotter mistie problems and worn pickup teeth, both of which are serviceable.
Specifications are commonly cited figures for general reference; exact figures vary by year and serial number, so confirm against TractorData.com and the machine's records. Values and prices of used balers vary by condition, use, and region. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.