The timing of raking is reported to be more critical than the type of rake used. In a 1984 survey, however, the majority of producers preferred the side delivery bar rake to the wheel rake.
Some producers use a tedder a couple of hours after mowing to fluff up the hay and allow air movement through wet slugs.
Also, they recommend raking when hay is still tough (30 to 40 percent moisture) to keep the leaves on the stems. If the hay is still in the drying stage, rake in the morning just as the dew is evaporating. If the hay becomes too dry, rake in late evening or in early morning while it is still heavy with dew.