Giant V761T Tele

Certainly not yet a household name here, the Dutch company Giant is looking to expand its presence in the western Canadian market, and it wants farmers to consider its machines for ag use.


The machine we tested was the V761T Tele. It’s window sticker MSRP was $168,000, but was offered at a show special of just $132,00 — a significant discount. 


Operating this articulated machine was similar to being in a four-wheel drive tractor, but in this model, as with similar machines, the operator sits behind the articulation point, and it has a limited boom extension to make high lifts easier. The centre pivot design gives farmers another choice in machinery type compared to skid steers and telehandlers.


Maximum lift capacity is 4,350 kilograms (9,590 pounds). But our test machine boom had been converted to use a skid steer-style quick attach system. That’s something the company will provide if a buyer really wants it, but the skid steer quick attach load rating reduces the effective load capacity of the machine by nearly half.


Underneath the Giant is a pair of 16-ton axles with differential lock on both the front and rear to maximize four-wheel drive traction. The hydrostatic drive pump is capable of 150 litres per minute. And the loader has a ride suspension system to improve stability and operator comfort.


Hydraulic fittings on the boom allow the V671T Tele to operate front-mounted attachments.


We didn’t know until after the test that the company no longer plans to import this model into Canada. Instead, a similar-sized and updated model will replace it. The first of which will arrive this fall to undergo cold weather testing to ensure it stands up to a Canadian winter. The affect of cold weather on the electronic system of the V671T Tele is a concern according to a company rep. If the test of the new model goes well, expect to see it available next season.

Cab access was really nice.


It is very manoeuvrable in tight quarters. The articulated design made accurately positioning loads very easy. 


It’s a nice machine to operate (once you get onto the control arrangement). Some controls are programmable to suit an operator’s preference.


Very good visibility around the machine, and the cab door pins open, flat against the machine side.


All filters are visible and easily accessible when the hood is opened.


The controls were initially difficult to figure out and took a couple of phone calls to the rep to understand them. Joystick buttons are unmarked.


When extending and retracting the boom, there is no flow reduction near the end of the cylinder limit, so it hits the ends hard.


The hood must be opened to fill the fuel tank.