German wheel loader and telehandler manufacturer Weidemann has just unveiled its new Easy Coupler System (ECS) at Agritechnica. The system is designed to make changing attachments easier.

The new coupling system removes the need to leave the cab and manually connect third-service hydraulic couplings.

The principle is simple. The hydraulically operated locking pins on the headstock have been designed to be a hydraulic coupling too. When the headstock pins are locked into place, the hydraulic circuit is complete. This means oil can flow through the locking pins and through to the attachment, allowing for control of the attachment’s hydraulic functions.

Weidemann claims this system is a environmentally sound solution, allows operation even under pressure and reduces the risk of operator injury. Return oil flow follows the same principle, flowing through the second locking pin. Removing the attachment from the loader is as simple. Locking pins are retracted normally, which disengages the hydraulic connection. No additional buttons are pressed during the attaching or detaching process.

The only negative is that attachments need to be compatible with the ECS but, on the upside, operators do not have to leave the cab and get oily hands from connecting hydraulic hoses manually.