255 2 Inch Cotton Bale Spike Collar – Weld-In Sleeve

Description

The 255 2 inch cotton bale spike collar is a solid steel weld-in sleeve made for compatible straight cross-bolt cotton spears. It provides a permanent mounting point for cotton frames, bale movers and custom agricultural equipment. Its heavy wall and extended length help support spear alignment.

This collar has a 2 inch inside diameter, 2.50 inch outside diameter and 10 inch overall length. It weighs approximately 8 pounds. Those dimensions make it a substantial fabrication component, but diameter alone does not prove that a particular spear will fit. The mounting profile, insertion depth, cross-hole position, bolt diameter, rear clearance and frame design must also match.

Customers comparing complete movers, cotton spikes and related mounting parts can view PRO-Link’s selection of cotton bale handling equipment.

Solid Steel Cross-Bolt Collar for Cotton Frames

The 255 cotton spear sleeve is machined from solid steel to provide a rigid mounting location inside a properly designed attachment. Its 2.50 inch outside diameter leaves substantial material around the 2 inch opening, while the 10 inch length provides support along the spear’s mounting section.

The collar is intended for a straight cross-bolt spear, not a tapered cotton spike. A compatible spear slides into the opening until its cross hole aligns with the holes in the collar. The correct bolt then passes through both components and is secured with the required washer and nut. This mechanical connection retains the removable spear while allowing it to be serviced without cutting the collar from the frame when the sleeve and surrounding structure remain usable.

A common matching component is the 84CS 84 inch cross-bolt cotton stab, which has a 2 inch diameter. Buyers must still confirm the complete mounting dimensions and hardware rather than relying on nominal diameter alone. A tapered 2 inch spear uses a different seating and retention system and should not be substituted.

The collar does not establish the lifting capacity of a completed cotton mover. The spear, cross-bolt, welds, supporting frame, coupler and carrier must all be rated and configured for the intended load. Always follow the lowest-rated component and the equipment manufacturer’s limits.

Weld-In Installation and Inspection Requirements

The 255 is a weld-in fabrication component rather than a bolt-on bracket. A qualified fabricator should determine the opening, collar projection, cross-hole orientation, frame reinforcement and welding procedure for the actual attachment materials and intended application.

Install only the empty collar. Do not leave the cotton spear, bolt, washer or nut in place while welding because heat and distortion can damage the components or prevent correct alignment. After welding, allow the assembly to cool completely. Inspect the joint for cracking, distortion, incomplete fusion or blocked clearance, and remove any spatter or debris from the collar opening and cross holes.

Once the cooled installation passes inspection, insert the matching straight spear until the holes align naturally. Install the specified cross-bolt, washer and retaining nut. Never force a bolt through misaligned holes or enlarge the openings to make incompatible parts connect. Misalignment may indicate the wrong spear, heat distortion, debris, an incorrect collar position or frame damage.

Before each use, inspect the spear, sleeve, cross hole, bolt, nut, welds and surrounding frame. Stop using the equipment if any part is loose, cracked, bent, elongated, severely worn or unable to remain aligned. Replacing the spear alone will not correct a damaged collar or weakened frame.

PRO-Link’s bale spear sleeve and cross-bolt guide explains the difference between straight cross-bolt and tapered mounting systems. The 255 collar is covered by a one-year limited warranty against manufacturer’s defects.

Questions & Answers

What type of cotton spear fits the 255 collar?

It is designed for a compatible straight 2 inch cross-bolt cotton spear. Confirm the mounting profile, insertion depth, cross-hole location and retaining hardware before installation.

Does a 2 inch spear automatically fit this collar?

No. Diameter is only one measurement. The spear and collar must also have matching cross-hole positions, bolt dimensions, mounting length and operating clearance.

Is the 255 collar welded or bolted to the frame?

The collar is welded permanently into a properly designed frame. The removable spear is then retained inside the cooled collar with the matching cross-bolt hardware.