Claas has revamped its mid-range tedders to bring them into line with the larger trailed machines.

Five models span working widths from 6.6m to 10.8m, with the largest available in both mounted and trailed formats.

While four of the five stick with 1.5m rotors, each equipped with six tine arms, those who prefer a larger diameter can opt for 1.7m rotors with seven arms on the six-star 7.7m Volto 800.

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One of the most significant upgrades has been in the driveline department. Individual rotor gearboxes are now oil- rather than grease-filled and shaft speeds have been increased by 50% to reduce torque-loading on the whole driveline.

Rather than universal joints at each of the main beam hinge points, there’s an arrangement much like Kuhn’s time-proven DigiDrive design using interlocking fingers.

Alongside larger bearings throughout, we’re told each of these changes is designed to reduce maintenance requirements and extend machine lifespan.

Rams replace springs

The Volto’s steering headstock has had something of a rework too. Coil-spring stabilisers are replaced by accumulator-damped hydraulic rams to add a bit of extra finesse when cornering at speed.

With smoother operation, Claas says the new machines will track better when turning or following an uneven path.

When the tedder is lifted, the system centres the machine more gently and prevents it from rolling backwards on slopes. The company also claims better yaw control and contouring as a result of the move to this new arrangement.

Dealing with undulating terrain is helped by double hinge joints along the beam, allowing each of the rotors to drop into hollows and ride up over lumps and bumps independently. It even has an impact in limiting side-sway in transport.