DRIVING IMPRESSION: In an effort to keep up with the likes of JCB and Manitou and their heavyweight load-shifters, Claas has added serious beef to its top-end Scorpion models. They can now lift 5.5t — over a tonne more than their predecessors
Responding to operator demands for more muscle power, last year Claas revamped its complete telehandler line-up, creating two distinct ranges based on two separate chassis. As before, the Scorpion is built in cooperation with Kramer which knocks up the telehandlers at its factory in southern Germany.
There are four large frame machines and four smaller units. We got hold of what is likely to be the biggest seller to arable operators — a Scorpion 7055 with 5.5t lift and a 7.0m reach.
First impressions were promising. We were immediately taken aback by the machine’s hydraulic power, even at full boom extension (when it is rated to lift 2.0t). Lab-style measurements of lift and tear-out forces were not possible in our short test drive (we hope to supply these at a later date in a full practical test), however the 7055 is certainly not lacking in the brute force department. Claas says much of this is down to a redesigned goose-neck. The standard Z-linkage has been replaced by a set-up that connects directly to the base of the attachment carriage, a mod that seems to have significantly increased tear-out forces.
That has resulted in a reduction in the carriage pivot arc of nearly 10°, yet the bucket will still crowd 49° and dump through 41°, says Claas. Thankfully no changes have been made to the boom’s low pivot point, so visibility is still one of the Scorpion’s stand-out features.
