In an extension of our telehandler test in the 4t lift and 7m reach category, we have taken a look at the best-selling rigid-frame machines from Kramer, Claas, Cat and Bobcat.  

Kramer has been hard at work relaunching the old Claas Scorpion models in its own livery. With no agricultural dealerships on its books, the firm has managed to strike a deal to sell through John Deere’s network, which has led to some impressive early sales success

Meanwhile, following its split from manufacturing partner Kramer, Claas has put the finishing touches to its new range of Scorpion handlers, this time built by Liebherr.

See also: Telehandler test: 5 mid-sized loaders battle it out

Although not a key player in the agricultural market yet, Caterpillar is also looking to grow its presence with the recently released D-series handler. Massey Ferguson is in the game too, and continues to offer its flagship TH.7038, based on the same platform as the Bobcat we tested last year.

The test was carried out on a dairy farm near Besancon, close to the French/Swiss border, with our colleagues from French magazine La France Agricole and the German publication Top Agrar.

The two-week trial included typical on-farm tasks such as bale handling, trailer loading and muckheap work. But to accurately compare their hydraulic performance and lifting prowess, the Germans also hooked them to their comprehensive range of testing equipment.

Caterpillar TH408D

Cab

Caterpillar’s conventional-looking cabin boasted the tallest internal space in our test group, making it feel fairly roomy, particularly for taller operators.

The downside is that it makes it the highest machine in the group by a clear 4cm, so it’s not the best choice for tight yards with low doorways. At 88cm, the cab floor is also a good bit higher than the likes of the Kramer, but generous access through the large one-piece door means it is easy enough to swing in and out.

Part of Cat’s upgrade process from the outgoing 407C was to lower the boom pivot point and put a pronounced slope on the engine hood, resulting in very good visibility to the right-hand side. Views in all other directions are clear too, which helps detract from the fact that it was the longest handler in the group.

The adjustable armrest was also a nice touch and makes it easy for different-sized operators to get comfortable.

Controls

Cat has opted for a more traditional control layout that means it’s more intuitive to drive than the Claas and Kramer.

On the left of the steering column there is a big shuttle lever and the twin rocker switches on the joystick handle the tele in/out function and third service.

We are enduring fans of the left-hand shuttle setup, as it prevents the operator’s right thumb getting tied in knots. However, for those who do like all controls in the right hand, Cat has neatly placed a second shuttle switch on the rear of the lever so you can change direction while still maintaining full control of the boom.

Less impressive is the big jumble of buttons on the dash with a bizarre set of obscure logos that give little clue to what they actually do – we counted 25. Thankfully most of them aren’t required for daily driving, so those hopping on the seat for a short stint won’t need to dig out the manual.

Another upgrade from the outgoing C-series machine is the optional screen on the right-hand side of the dash. This houses multiple functions such as reversing fan timings, the default starting gear and a rear-view camera. There is also a detailed greasing chart that tallies with colour-coded grease nipples on the machine.

Engine

Our test handler came with the top-spec version of Perkins’ 4.4-litre four-cylinder Acert engine. That means it delivers a healthy 142hp and 514Nm torque, putting it at the top of the group in the power stakes.

Unlike some of the other engines, the Perkins relies on Adblue only to get around emissions regs, meaning there are no bulky filters to clutter up the engine bay.

Presumably to help facilitate its sloping hood arrangement, the maker has positioned the cooling pack at the rear of the engine bay. This is fine in itself, but the design exhausts air on to the ground, which could kick up an almighty dust cloud in a grain store.

Transmission

The TH408D was the only machine in this year’s test to run a mechanical powershift gearbox. The main benefit of this is its ability to pull trailers.

Cat publishes a 12t towing capacity and with six gears to play with, the operator can make the most of the 142hp on offer.

These gears can be shifted manually using buttons on the joystick or automatically by selecting the auto-shift function.

The only real downside with the transmission in our eyes is that you get a slightly jerky engagement of drive, which you particularly notice when hopping out of a hydrostatic machine.

Boom and hydraulics

The Cat’s elongated boom trumped the rest of the test group in terms of reach.

And its long chassis and heavier weight meant with the boom retracted, it comfortably lifted the most too. Things evened out at full height though.

Despite the extra distance the boom had to travel, the 140-litre/min pump managed to deliver a respectable complete cycle time. It was also the second-fastest machine to raise the boom (trailing the Claas) and the fastest to lower it.

To allow the machine to be quickly tailored to different jobs, Cat offers two customisable hydraulic modes. These allow flow rates to be adjusted for different functions so you can do things like slow down the crowd and tip function for greater accuracy.