As both Weidemann and Kramer are part of Wacker Neuson Group, we assumed Weidemann would simply rebadge a Kramer handler to get an initial foothold in the 7.0m market. But that is actually not the case. The new T7042 is an in-house development, and only the two-stage boom comes from Kramer.
Attachment-wise, you can choose from JCB, Manitou, Kramer and even the Matbro pin and cone mechanical carriages. Our test machine, which to say it was really well specced is putting it mildly, had the optional hydraulic quick attach.
Pre-series machine on test…
Weidemann was brave enough to provide us with an early machine; in fact it was one of the pre-series models. So some components and details have already been improved since the 4.2t, 7.0m lift handler entered production. Other aspects are still being reworked and will be retrofitted to these early examples that have been retailed. Our main concern was the amount of lateral movement in the boom, which twisted so much under high loads that the boom would touch the chassis and the bonnet spring open. According to Weidemann, this has been remedied.
Powerful and economical
The T7402 is powered by a 3.6-litre Perkins motor producing 90kW/122hp in its standard guise. Our test machine had the 100kW/136hp version, an extra £700 option and certainly recommended. Much the same applied to the reversing function for the hydraulically driven fan (£425).
