The most important thing to check are the 4 spring loaded hay dogs. 2 on top and 2 on bottom. When the ram compresses a flake the retracts the dogs, all 4 must hold the compressed bale face from dragging into the chamber. If this happens you will get a miss tie...i keep mine oiled up really good...
use the opposing bolts where the needle mounts to adjust position instead of trying to bend them. They are cast, I've been told cast steel, regardless I welded mine with a small flux core welder. No issues since, but I only bale about 300 bales per season.
