As Claas approaches its 25th anniversary of manufacturing Lexion combines, the latest generation sees the German manufacturer enter a new dimension in terms of performance and user-friendly operation.
After 10 years of development and over 6,000 hours of field testing, Claas has finally introduced to the public what the company believes is the best Lexion to date.
The new-generation machines bring about more changes than any of the other Lexion iterations, with 66% of the parts being completely different than before, according to Claas. The latest models have four-digit model numbers, moving on from the older three-digit model numbers such as the 670 and 770 machines.
Both conventional straw walker machines (5000 and 6000 series) and hybrid machines (7000 and 8000) were launched. The straw walker models will not be available in the UK and Irish markets until 2021, while the hybrid machines can be purchased for next season. According to Claas UK, the plan is to establish the bestselling hybrid machines first given the large amount of updates and training that goes with the launch of new models.
The new generation Lexion combines see more changes than ever before.
Among the updates are the APS Synflow threshing system, new engines with increased power, increased grain tank sizes, faster unloading systems and greater dust extraction systems to mention some of the more major changes on these new machines.
Two versions of the APS Synflow hybrid machines are available. The Lexion 8000 is a wide-body machine that comprises three models including the flagship 8900 that boasts some impressive specs. This sees the Lexion 7000 being the narrow-body machine in which there are four models offered. Claas claims the tests on the hybrid machines are showing increased outputs of around 10% when compared on a like-for-like basis with the current models, while being kinder than before on straw and grain.
The new hydraulically driven Convio draper type cutterbar is available in both rigid and flex versions.
Feeder house
One of the standout updates is the new dust extractor, designed to pull any dust or chaff from the feeder house and deposit it down behind the header. So, before the threshing process even begins, there is an improvement in dust extraction compared to current models. There is a fan on top of the feeder house to keep this area free from build-up of awns and chaff, while on a more subtle note the feeder house has increased in depth to accommodate increased crop flow.
The new dust extractor removes dust and chaff from the feeder house before threshing begins.
APS Synflow threshing
The new APS Synflow primary threshing system has been developed from the firm’s original APS concept, this being the main factor for the increased output of the 7000/8000 machines. As with the current hybrid machines, the primary threshing system is designed to thresh out 70% of grain, leaving the remaining 30% to be threshed by the Roto Plus secondary separation system.
Inside the primary threshing system, Claas has gone with the bigger is better approach. Biggest of all is the 755mm diameter main threshing drum, some 26% larger than the 600mm drum found on the current 700 series. The larger-diameter drum now accommodates 10 rasp bars compared to the previous eight. The feed drum, otherwise known as impeller drum, is 57% larger than before, at a diameter of 600mm. This means both a longer crop contact time and a more powerful rotor feed.
The new APS Synflow primary threshing system mainly sees larger drums among other small changes.
Larger drums mean higher centrifugal speeds of rasp bars. This allows drum speed to be reduced to 550rpm compared to 750rpm on current models to maintain the same rasp bar velocity. Threshing drum speed is infinitely variably controlled from 330rpm to 930rpm compared to the current 450rpm to 1,050rpm. Change of drum speed is fully synchronised with APS and the feed drum.
This increased drum size called for a newly designed concave, with an increase in separation area leaving the operator with more control than before from his/her seat using the revamped Cebis terminal. The main concave flaps are hydraulically engaged with the addition of a hydraulic pivoting concave bar between the pre-separation and main concaves. This adds for more of an aggressive thresh. 
A hydraulic pivoting concave bar along with hydrualic concave flaps have been added for a more aggressive thresh if required by the operator.
Up until now both these additions were a manual install. Concaves all move together in a parallel motion using a linkage system, while movements are infinitely adjustable through Cebis and are integrated into Cemos Automatic.
Larger drums allow for a reduced wrap angle than before, meaning drive to each of the drums is in more of a straight line. Claas claims this straighter drive line saves both power and fuel, while the straighter material flow sees less straw damage and improved grain quality.
Both narrow and wide body machines see concave size increases in the region of 23%. These concaves have been designed so that 40% of the main segments are easily pulled out to the side of the machine. Leaving maintenance and setup changes for varying crop types easier than before.
Residual grain separation/rotors
Increased flow of material from the primary separation system sees an extension of the nose separating crop flow into the two rotors. The angle of the Roto Plus rotors has been slackened for both reduced straw damage and wrapping. Rotor concaves have also been redesigned, with the number of rotor cover plates (or bomb doors) increased. Claas says this is to improve grain separation and reduce losses. Other new features here include increased rotor speed and beefed up bearing hangers. As standard, 8800 and 8900 combines will arrive with four rotor cover plates. The optional 4D cleaning remains unchanged.
The angle of the Roto Plus secondary seperation rotors has been slackened to reduce straw damage.
Grain tanks
Grain tank capacity on Lexion 7000 and 8000 machines has been increased with the flagship 8900 Tera Trac available with a grain tank option of 18,000l (14.4t). These larger tanks see more sensors and a faster unloading time. Maximum unloading auger speed is 180 litres/second through a new 420mm auger compared to the current 330mm augers. This sees the largest of tanks unloaded in 100 seconds, says Claas. Although this unloading system is only available to the three 8000 series machines. A new feature gives the option to halve auger speed to 90l/second to avoid any grain spillage as trailers become close to full. Unloading arm pivot angle has also been increased from 101° to 105°, which may not sound major but given the auger length it makes a notable difference. Both the main grain elevator and the returns elevator have seen increases in capacity. The Lexion 7000/8000 is capable of moving 33% (narrow body) and 47% (wide body) more grain than current Lexion 700 models. The returns elevator carrying capacity is up 30% on current models.
Both larger grain tanks and unloading augers are available on larger models. witht he largest tank option of 18,000l available on the 8900 Terra Trac.
Driveline and engines
Claas has made an effort in streamlining the Lexion, with a driveline involving fewer chains and belts. A new dry clutch drive engagement system is now fitted, removing the well-known squeak of the older belt drive tensioner engaging. The rotor drive system has been moved to the left-hand side, eliminating the need for its belt to pass through the diesel tank as we see in current models. The Jaguar-inspired straight line drive system reduces power loss and sees two fewer cha ins and two fewer belts than before, while belt tensioners are more standardised.
The Lexion inherits the Dynamic Power engine management system also seen in the Jaguar forager. This system senses engine load and adjusts output accordingly. More power can be made available when unloading under full engine load thanks to the Dynamic Power system.
Lexion 7000 and 8000 models are powered by either MAN or Mercedes-Benz Stage V-compliant engines with power outputs ranging from 408hp in the 7400 to a new high of 790hp in the range-topping 8900 fitted with a 16.2l MAN D26 engine. The New Holland CR10.90 is the closest contender in terms of power, with 90hp less.
Whether fitted with Tera Trac systems or wheels, all 7000/8000 models are capable of travelling at 40km/h. Differential lock is available on wheeled machines, along with larger tyre options now going up to 42in allowing for a tyre height of 2.15m up front. On the rear a 34in rim can be fitted with a tyre size of 1.75m. The cleverly designed rear axle linkage system makes fitment of larger tyres possible.
Yield measuring
Current Lexion models see a volumetric yield measuring system, whereas the new Lexion sees a new Quantimeter yield measuring system fitted to the 7000/8000 hybrid models. This system takes its information from a pressure cell, which Claas claim is more accurate as well as being telematics compatible for yield mapping and record keeping.
Claas has developed an automatic steering system called Field Scanner to replace the older Laserpilot guidance system. This cab-mounted system uses a radar scanner originally developed by Audi requiring zero calibration. Field Scanner can scan an arc of over 145° compared to one directional Laserpilot system.
Updated cab
Since the Lexion 7000/8000 sees a slightly lengthened chassis than before, more space has been allocated to improving cabin size. The cab sees an extra 15cm of length leaving more space for the operator as well as an increased grain tank window and improved sound insulation.
The outdated Cebis has been replaced with the latest intuitive touchscreen terminal which is much more user friendly and colourful than current terminals.
Direct Control sees an array of switches along the armrest for controlling all major settings without the need for navigating through Cebis. Three Cemos options are available depending on preference – Cemos Dialog, Cemos auto through Cebis and Cemos automatic.
Cemos Automatic allows for more machine monitoring with the addtion of the second terminal.
Cutterbars
Cutterbars have also seen changes for the 2020 season. The major addition is the hydraulically driven Convio cutterbar. The Convio draper-type cutterbar is available in five widths from 7.70m up to 13.8m. It is available in both rigid and flex versions, with the flex version ideal for close cutting as it has the ability to flex over a range of 225mm (90mm up and 135mm down). Both cutterbars use the proven Auto Contour and Active Float systems as current models do. The Convio Flex cutterbar has four operating modes which Claas claim do essentially as the name suggests, Cereal mode, Laid Crop mode, Manual Flex mode and Auto Flex mode. Both Convio models have a newly design reel with adjustable cam tracks. Automatic Belt Speed adjusts belt speed relative to the combine’s forward speed, ensuring even crop flow into the feederhouse.
The new hydraulically driven Convio draper type cutterbar is available in both rigid and flex versions.
A new 13.8m (45ft) Vario cutterbar is available to maximise increased threshing capabilities of the new Lexion APS Synflow Hybrid models, says Claas. Features of the new header include a split knife and 660mm header auger, both of which are mechanically driven. Filler plates allow for the cutterbar to be extended over a 70cm range to suit different crop types. In addition headers are now fitted with more lights and quick-release crop lifters.
Claas also launched two conventional straw walker Lexions, the five-walker 5000 series and six-walker 6000 series. The fact that these will not be available in the UK and Ireland until 2021 will have more of an effect on the Irish market given the preference of conventional walker combines on many Irish farms, albeit there are steady numbers of hybrid machines being sold yearly.
The new 5000/6000 Lexions benefit from all the same upgrades as the hybrid machines, including the new APS Synflow threshing system. Significant output increases have been made on these machines, with Claas claiming somewhere in the region of 25% greater output in comparison to current model straw walkers. Across the 5000/6000 range, there are seven models ranging from 313hp to 507hp. So, in the meantime straw walker fans will have to remain patient until 2021.
The Lexion 5000/6000 straw walker machines will not be available on the UK and Irish market until 2021.
As Claas approaches its 25th anniversary of manufacturing Lexion combines, the latest generation sees the German manufacturer enter a new dimension in terms of performance and user-friendly operation.
After 10 years of development and over 6,000 hours of field testing, Claas has finally introduced to the public what the company believes is the best Lexion to date.
The new-generation machines bring about more changes than any of the other Lexion iterations, with 66% of the parts being completely different than before, according to Claas. The latest models have four-digit model numbers, moving on from the older three-digit model numbers such as the 670 and 770 machines.
Both conventional straw walker machines (5000 and 6000 series) and hybrid machines (7000 and 8000) were launched. The straw walker models will not be available in the UK and Irish markets until 2021, while the hybrid machines can be purchased for next season. According to Claas UK, the plan is to establish the bestselling hybrid machines first given the large amount of updates and training that goes with the launch of new models.
The new generation Lexion combines see more changes than ever before.
Among the updates are the APS Synflow threshing system, new engines with increased power, increased grain tank sizes, faster unloading systems and greater dust extraction systems to mention some of the more major changes on these new machines.
Two versions of the APS Synflow hybrid machines are available. The Lexion 8000 is a wide-body machine that comprises three models including the flagship 8900 that boasts some impressive specs. This sees the Lexion 7000 being the narrow-body machine in which there are four models offered. Claas claims the tests on the hybrid machines are showing increased outputs of around 10% when compared on a like-for-like basis with the current models, while being kinder than before on straw and grain.
The new hydraulically driven Convio draper type cutterbar is available in both rigid and flex versions.
Feeder house
One of the standout updates is the new dust extractor, designed to pull any dust or chaff from the feeder house and deposit it down behind the header. So, before the threshing process even begins, there is an improvement in dust extraction compared to current models. There is a fan on top of the feeder house to keep this area free from build-up of awns and chaff, while on a more subtle note the feeder house has increased in depth to accommodate increased crop flow.
The new dust extractor removes dust and chaff from the feeder house before threshing begins.
APS Synflow threshing
The new APS Synflow primary threshing system has been developed from the firm’s original APS concept, this being the main factor for the increased output of the 7000/8000 machines. As with the current hybrid machines, the primary threshing system is designed to thresh out 70% of grain, leaving the remaining 30% to be threshed by the Roto Plus secondary separation system.
Inside the primary threshing system, Claas has gone with the bigger is better approach. Biggest of all is the 755mm diameter main threshing drum, some 26% larger than the 600mm drum found on the current 700 series. The larger-diameter drum now accommodates 10 rasp bars compared to the previous eight. The feed drum, otherwise known as impeller drum, is 57% larger than before, at a diameter of 600mm. This means both a longer crop contact time and a more powerful rotor feed.
The new APS Synflow primary threshing system mainly sees larger drums among other small changes.
Larger drums mean higher centrifugal speeds of rasp bars. This allows drum speed to be reduced to 550rpm compared to 750rpm on current models to maintain the same rasp bar velocity. Threshing drum speed is infinitely variably controlled from 330rpm to 930rpm compared to the current 450rpm to 1,050rpm. Change of drum speed is fully synchronised with APS and the feed drum.
This increased drum size called for a newly designed concave, with an increase in separation area leaving the operator with more control than before from his/her seat using the revamped Cebis terminal. The main concave flaps are hydraulically engaged with the addition of a hydraulic pivoting concave bar between the pre-separation and main concaves. This adds for more of an aggressive thresh.
A hydraulic pivoting concave bar along with hydrualic concave flaps have been added for a more aggressive thresh if required by the operator.
Up until now both these additions were a manual install. Concaves all move together in a parallel motion using a linkage system, while movements are infinitely adjustable through Cebis and are integrated into Cemos Automatic.
Larger drums allow for a reduced wrap angle than before, meaning drive to each of the drums is in more of a straight line. Claas claims this straighter drive line saves both power and fuel, while the straighter material flow sees less straw damage and improved grain quality.
Both narrow and wide body machines see concave size increases in the region of 23%. These concaves have been designed so that 40% of the main segments are easily pulled out to the side of the machine. Leaving maintenance and setup changes for varying crop types easier than before.
Residual grain separation/rotors
Increased flow of material from the primary separation system sees an extension of the nose separating crop flow into the two rotors. The angle of the Roto Plus rotors has been slackened for both reduced straw damage and wrapping. Rotor concaves have also been redesigned, with the number of rotor cover plates (or bomb doors) increased. Claas says this is to improve grain separation and reduce losses. Other new features here include increased rotor speed and beefed up bearing hangers. As standard, 8800 and 8900 combines will arrive with four rotor cover plates. The optional 4D cleaning remains unchanged.
The angle of the Roto Plus secondary seperation rotors has been slackened to reduce straw damage.
Grain tanks
Grain tank capacity on Lexion 7000 and 8000 machines has been increased with the flagship 8900 Tera Trac available with a grain tank option of 18,000l (14.4t). These larger tanks see more sensors and a faster unloading time. Maximum unloading auger speed is 180 litres/second through a new 420mm auger compared to the current 330mm augers. This sees the largest of tanks unloaded in 100 seconds, says Claas. Although this unloading system is only available to the three 8000 series machines. A new feature gives the option to halve auger speed to 90l/second to avoid any grain spillage as trailers become close to full. Unloading arm pivot angle has also been increased from 101° to 105°, which may not sound major but given the auger length it makes a notable difference. Both the main grain elevator and the returns elevator have seen increases in capacity. The Lexion 7000/8000 is capable of moving 33% (narrow body) and 47% (wide body) more grain than current Lexion 700 models. The returns elevator carrying capacity is up 30% on current models.
Both larger grain tanks and unloading augers are available on larger models. witht he largest tank option of 18,000l available on the 8900 Terra Trac.
Driveline and engines
Claas has made an effort in streamlining the Lexion, with a driveline involving fewer chains and belts. A new dry clutch drive engagement system is now fitted, removing the well-known squeak of the older belt drive tensioner engaging. The rotor drive system has been moved to the left-hand side, eliminating the need for its belt to pass through the diesel tank as we see in current models. The Jaguar-inspired straight line drive system reduces power loss and sees two fewer cha ins and two fewer belts than before, while belt tensioners are more standardised.
The Lexion inherits the Dynamic Power engine management system also seen in the Jaguar forager. This system senses engine load and adjusts output accordingly. More power can be made available when unloading under full engine load thanks to the Dynamic Power system.
Lexion 7000 and 8000 models are powered by either MAN or Mercedes-Benz Stage V-compliant engines with power outputs ranging from 408hp in the 7400 to a new high of 790hp in the range-topping 8900 fitted with a 16.2l MAN D26 engine. The New Holland CR10.90 is the closest contender in terms of power, with 90hp less.
Whether fitted with Tera Trac systems or wheels, all 7000/8000 models are capable of travelling at 40km/h. Differential lock is available on wheeled machines, along with larger tyre options now going up to 42in allowing for a tyre height of 2.15m up front. On the rear a 34in rim can be fitted with a tyre size of 1.75m. The cleverly designed rear axle linkage system makes fitment of larger tyres possible.
Yield measuring
Current Lexion models see a volumetric yield measuring system, whereas the new Lexion sees a new Quantimeter yield measuring system fitted to the 7000/8000 hybrid models. This system takes its information from a pressure cell, which Claas claim is more accurate as well as being telematics compatible for yield mapping and record keeping.
Claas has developed an automatic steering system called Field Scanner to replace the older Laserpilot guidance system. This cab-mounted system uses a radar scanner originally developed by Audi requiring zero calibration. Field Scanner can scan an arc of over 145° compared to one directional Laserpilot system.
Updated cab
Since the Lexion 7000/8000 sees a slightly lengthened chassis than before, more space has been allocated to improving cabin size. The cab sees an extra 15cm of length leaving more space for the operator as well as an increased grain tank window and improved sound insulation.
The outdated Cebis has been replaced with the latest intuitive touchscreen terminal which is much more user friendly and colourful than current terminals.
Direct Control sees an array of switches along the armrest for controlling all major settings without the need for navigating through Cebis. Three Cemos options are available depending on preference – Cemos Dialog, Cemos auto through Cebis and Cemos automatic.
Cemos Automatic allows for more machine monitoring with the addtion of the second terminal.
Cutterbars
Cutterbars have also seen changes for the 2020 season. The major addition is the hydraulically driven Convio cutterbar. The Convio draper-type cutterbar is available in five widths from 7.70m up to 13.8m. It is available in both rigid and flex versions, with the flex version ideal for close cutting as it has the ability to flex over a range of 225mm (90mm up and 135mm down). Both cutterbars use the proven Auto Contour and Active Float systems as current models do. The Convio Flex cutterbar has four operating modes which Claas claim do essentially as the name suggests, Cereal mode, Laid Crop mode, Manual Flex mode and Auto Flex mode. Both Convio models have a newly design reel with adjustable cam tracks. Automatic Belt Speed adjusts belt speed relative to the combine’s forward speed, ensuring even crop flow into the feederhouse.
The new hydraulically driven Convio draper type cutterbar is available in both rigid and flex versions.
A new 13.8m (45ft) Vario cutterbar is available to maximise increased threshing capabilities of the new Lexion APS Synflow Hybrid models, says Claas. Features of the new header include a split knife and 660mm header auger, both of which are mechanically driven. Filler plates allow for the cutterbar to be extended over a 70cm range to suit different crop types. In addition headers are now fitted with more lights and quick-release crop lifters.
Claas also launched two conventional straw walker Lexions, the five-walker 5000 series and six-walker 6000 series. The fact that these will not be available in the UK and Ireland until 2021 will have more of an effect on the Irish market given the preference of conventional walker combines on many Irish farms, albeit there are steady numbers of hybrid machines being sold yearly.
The new 5000/6000 Lexions benefit from all the same upgrades as the hybrid machines, including the new APS Synflow threshing system. Significant output increases have been made on these machines, with Claas claiming somewhere in the region of 25% greater output in comparison to current model straw walkers. Across the 5000/6000 range, there are seven models ranging from 313hp to 507hp. So, in the meantime straw walker fans will have to remain patient until 2021.
The Lexion 5000/6000 straw walker machines will not be available on the UK and Irish market until 2021.
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