REPORT: Its 18 years since Claas presented the first inhouse-developed Axion having purchased a majority stake in the tractor business from Renault. Are these first generation tractors on their way to becoming a future classic. We catch up with two owners to get their opinion.
Claas acquired over 51% of Renault’s tractor division in 2003 before scooping up the remaining shares in 2008. Initially, they continued with the existing model ranges including the Ares and the higher powered Atles but donning the familiar spring green colour scheme.
In 2006, Claas presented the Axion 800s, the first tractor range that was developed inhouse as the successor to Ares 700 and 800. We chat to the farmers Georg Budde and Phil Brintrup about their years of experience with their first-generation Axions. These are mainly used for carrying out arable work on their respective 80 and 100ha farms Georg bought his 820 Axion in 2011 when it had just 2,200 hours on the clock; Phil’s father bought their 810 in 2014 with around 4,000 hours clocked.
Powershift..
The Claas Axion is available in three levels of specification: The simplest version is called CIS and comes with the Hexashift powershift transmission together with mechanical spools. The latter operated from manual levers on the side console being the easy identifier. The Hexashift transmission comes from the jointly developed Gima business. This offers six powershift steps in four groups each. Bot the ranges and powershifts are worked by flicking the drive stick on the armrest.
If you want more setting options but still prefer a mechanical box then there was the mid-range Hexashift transmission and Cebis terminal. The spec on these tractors comprised up to five electric spools with time and flow control as well as a headland management system that can be programmed from the terminal.
The spools are operated by ‘playing’ two or three piano keys; an electric single-lever cross control is conveniently located on the armrest next to the drive stick.
For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save.
