The Kama Automobile Plant is perhaps the most famous enterprise in Russia producing medium- and large-tonnage trucks. These machines are used in every region of Russia - from the south to the Far North. KamAZ is a reliable truck capable of operating in any weather and road conditions. The line of trucks from the Kama Automobile Plant is quite extensive. And today we will look at one of the most popular truck tractors. This is KamAZ-65116. Technical specifications, photos and features are further in our article.
Appearance
The car was produced in several generations. So, before restyling, the car had the same appearance as in the photo below.
The cabin design was exactly the same as the 5460 truck tractor (known as KamAZ from the movie “Truckers 2”). The car has strict square lines. The cab, fenders and bumper are painted the same color. At the bottom there are small foglights. But as reviews note, they shine very poorly. The main optics are located slightly higher. The headlights use classic filament lamps. They shine well, but I would like it to be better, drivers say. On the sides of the cabin there are vertical “gills” that direct air flow. Thanks to them, the side of the cabin does not get dirty so much in dirty weather. Finally, KamAZ lost its old, two-piece windshield. Now there is a single panoramic window. But since the cabin is quite wide, I had to use three windshield wipers. There are orange side lights at the top of the cab. The cabs on KamAZ-65116 trucks are low. High ones are only available in modifications 5460. By the way, more than half of KamAZ-65116 trucks are painted orange. Blue and white shades are less common.
Changes after 2012
In 2012, the manufacturer made minor changes to the design. So, the cabin and bumper were modified. The cabin remained low, but a sun visor appeared on the roof. The vertical “gills” have become more compact, and the bumper has become more angular.
The headlights are now structurally combined with turn signals. Fog lights may be located at the bottom. They are slightly larger than on the pre-restyling versions. However, they are located very low, and drivers often carry them higher. Otherwise, the appearance of the KamAZ-65116 truck remains the same. The car is still produced in this guise to this day.
Are there any problems?
What do reviews say about KamAZ-65116? The owners note that despite the design improvements, the cabin itself was not without old problems. So, the first trouble is corrosion. Cabins of both first and second generations of trucks are significantly susceptible to it. Rust especially often forms in the area of wheel arches and doors. To keep the metal in its original form, it must be treated with Movil every year and lockers installed. Owners also speak negatively about the fuel tank mounts. The brackets are quite weak and you have to strengthen them yourself. The quality of the painting itself also leaves much to be desired. Three years later, the first chips and bugs form on the cabin. If you do not deal with rust in time, through eight years, through corrosion will form in these areas.
Modifications
The KamAZ-65117 flatbed version is most often used in conjunction with trailers designed for 14,000 kg of cargo (NefAZ-8332 or SZAP-8357). In addition, the successful design of the truck chassis allows you to attach an awning-frame installation or an isothermal booth (the so-called “refrigerator”) to its platform. The model can also be registered as special equipment after equipping the machine with a crane.
A special version of trucks with o is intended for use in temperate latitudes. The temperature range at which the car operates as usual is between -45 and +40 degrees. In this case, air humidity should not exceed a threshold of 75%.
The car modification marked “T” is designed specifically for operation in tropical climates, in areas of high humidity or extremely dry regions. Their lifespan is designed for temperatures of -10 – +45 degrees and humidity up to 80%.
We should also talk about the modification of KamAZ-65117 with an installed crane. Despite their “exotic” nature, such installations are in considerable demand on the domestic market, as well as in neighboring countries. Therefore, on the company’s official website there are several models equipped with retractable CMUs directly from the factory. The range of their applications is incredibly wide - these include loading and unloading operations, working with construction and installation materials, as well as transporting complex and fragile cargo.
The maximum lifting capacity of the CMU is 7 tons, and the boom “opens” to a distance of 12 meters.
KamAZ-65116: dimensions, ground clearance
This car has a 6 x 2 wheel arrangement and the following dimensions: total length is 6.15 meters, width – 2.5 meters, height – 2.9 meters. Despite such large dimensions, the machine has a small turning radius. It is only 10.7 meters. Another advantage of the KamAZ-65116 vehicle is ground clearance. The ground clearance on standard 20-inch tires is as much as 29 centimeters. This allows you to operate the machine in the most difficult conditions. It’s not for nothing that dump trucks are made based on the KamAZ-65116 truck. These cars are able to overcome any road, be it a wet dirt road, sand or snowy rough terrain.
History of the model
KamAZ-65116 represents the latest generation of truck tractors with a 6x4 wheel arrangement, the development of which began back in the 80s of the twentieth century. The first model of this series was the KamAZ-5410, intended for use with trailers and semi-trailers with a total weight of up to 25 tons.
It was replaced by a more improved version with the index 54112, which differed from its predecessor in increased carrying capacity, an extended cabin, enlarged fuel tanks, spring design and the location of components at the rear of the cabin.
In the early 2000s, the Kama Automobile Plant updated its line of three-axle truck tractors by releasing the KamAZ-54115 model. It received a high cabin, new wheels and tires, a powerful 240-horsepower turbocharged diesel engine that meets the Euro-2 environmental standard, and a 10-speed manual transmission.
Production of this truck model continued until 2008. They have proven themselves to be hardy and unpretentious heavy trucks that work effectively over short and long distances.
Since 2009, the worthy successor to the 54115 model is the new KamAZ-65116. Despite the presence of the number “5” in the model index, it is a truck tractor. Thanks to the introduction of a number of innovative design developments, this truck has become even more reliable, convenient, economical and safe to operate. And in terms of its maneuverability and traction qualities, it is in no way inferior to its foreign analogues.
Cabin
According to the manufacturer, the KamAZ-65116 tractor is equipped with a luxury cabin. However, reviews prove the opposite. There is no minimum set of devices required for long-distance transportation. So, owners have to install:
- Heater.
- Walkie-talkie.
- Radio tape recorder with speakers.
- Voltage converter from 24 to 12 Volts.
The interior is designed rather ascetically: a flat front panel with huge buttons, a shapeless seat and a dial instrument panel. What is noteworthy is that this KamAZ does not have the usual floor-mounted accelerator pedal. The gearshift lever is very high. By the way, in the photo you can see the dangling braid. This is not a defect - this is how the link comes from the factory. The owners have to modify it themselves. The steering wheel is not as big as usual, which is very pleasing. But the range of adjustments is limited. The cabin is not sprung, and all shocks from the suspension go directly to the cabin. What pleases is the good visibility due to the captain's landing. The car uses six mirrors mounted around the entire perimeter of the cabin. The presence of dead zones is reduced to a minimum. Climbing into the cabin is fairly easy thanks to the metal handrails and multiple running boards. There are sun visors. The stove heats well, so you won’t freeze in the cabin in winter.
Unfortunately, that's where all the benefits end. The space in the cabin is quite small. Over time, the air intake begins to “dumb” and emit an unpleasant hum. In addition, vibrations from the engine are noticeably felt. To get rid of them at least partially, owners install a third pair of pillows under the body. The noise of the engine is audible in all operating modes - this is a childhood disease of all KamAZ vehicles.
Device
KamAZ-65116 has a reinforced frame that allows it to take additional weight. Thanks to the modernized design of the fifth wheel, the tractor is capable of working with container and tilt semi-trailers.
The KamAZ-65116 frame consists of 2 spars with cross members. Internal and external linings have significantly strengthened it. This element is the basis of the design of the tractor, determining the strength parameters.
The modified air suspension with variable stiffness ensures comfortable movement on difficult roads. The front suspension is mounted on springs with a sliding rear end and has hydrotelescoping shock absorbers. The front axle with brakes and steering knuckles is mounted on it. The balanced rear suspension is mounted on 10-leaf springs with torque rods and sliding rear ends.
The brakes play the most important role for a tractor, since with a large mass it is quite difficult to stop the car. This problem was solved by installing pneumatic drum brakes.
KamAZ-65116 is equipped with a single-plate clutch with a hydraulic drive and a 9-speed manual transmission with remote control. The truck is equipped with a foreign ZF 9S1310 gearbox. The drive mechanism is equipped with a pneumatic booster.
The truck's cabin has noticeably changed. During its refinement, special attention was paid to aerodynamics. It has a new front fascia with side spacers and a wide, streamlined bumper that minimizes noisy turbulence on the windows and doors. Thanks to the convex wing flaps, oncoming air flows to the side. This protects against dirt. The handrail and step are conveniently located and make it easy to climb into the cab. KamAZ-65116 is equipped with an adjustable Grammer driver's seat, designed for long-distance routes. Adjustable lumbar support makes the chair very comfortable. The cabin contains devices that allow you to maintain an optimal climate and ensure normal ventilation.
The truck's dashboard is made of high-quality plastic and is slightly oriented towards the driver, which improves ergonomics. Instruments and switches are conveniently located and accessible for viewing. The truck's steering has an adjustable column and a built-in hydraulic cylinder, making turns easier. The cabin features a raised ceiling that makes it feel less cramped, and there are spacious drawers for personal belongings above the windshield. Behind the seats there is a sleeping bag on which you can lie down.
Extensive modernization of most components has significantly reduced the car’s “gluttony”, and the newest engine has increased dynamic and power indicators.
Frame
KamAZ-65116 is built on a strong and reliable frame, the design of which includes two side members with cross members.
A significant increase in the load capacity of this model became possible thanks to the use of reinforcing elements in the form of internal and external linings. The frame is equipped with a cast fifth wheel coupling with two degrees of freedom.
A well-thought-out design and excellent technical characteristics of the fifth wheel device have expanded its functionality, providing the ability to transport tilt and container semi-trailers weighing up to 30 tons.
The fifth wheel coupling mechanism (cast, with 2 degrees of freedom) must be coated with a thin layer of lubricant.
Cabin
The designers did a good job on the cabin of the updated tractor. The main attention was paid to improving the aerodynamic properties of the car and ensuring ease of use.
New exterior elements are presented in the form of a modernized front panel, complemented by side spacers, a wide, streamlined bumper and convex fenders. This architecture helps to minimize noisy turbulence and divert oncoming air flows to the sides, which significantly improves the aerodynamics of the truck. The fenders also perform a protective function, protecting the cabin elements from dirt flying out from under the front wheels.
Access to the interior of the KamAZ-65116 is much more convenient compared to previous versions of this tractor. Standing on the step and holding the handrail, the driver easily climbs into the cabin, immediately finding himself in a comfortable chair. By the way, this element of the interior deserves special attention.
The seat, manufactured by Grammer, has a full range of adjustments aimed at ensuring driver comfort on long trips. Its main feature is the ability to adjust the lumbar support function to the individual anatomical characteristics of each driver, regardless of his height and build.
The ergonomics of the car dashboard have also been improved. The new design provides the most convenient access to controls for machine functions. The reach-adjustable steering column design includes a built-in hydraulic cylinder, allowing you to easily perform any maneuvers.
The updated cabin has good sound insulation, it is quite spacious and comfortable. Additional volume of internal space is achieved by raising the ceiling. There are spacious storage compartments above the panoramic windshield, and behind the seats there is a comfortable sleeping area for the driver to rest.
Dimensional and mass parameters
- Length – 6.52 m;
- Height – 2.975 m;
- Width – 2.975 m;
- External turning radius – 10.7 m;
- Climbing angle – 18˚;
- Curb weight - 7.7 tons;
- Max. saddle load – 15 t;
- Max. semi-trailer weight – 30 tons;
- Max. road train weight – 37.85 tons;
- Max. rear axle load – 3.7 t;
- Max. front axle load – 4 t;
- Wheels - disc type;
- Tires – tube (11.00 R20), pneumatic tubeless (11.00 R22);
- Fuel tank volume – 350 l.
KamAZ-65116: technical characteristics
The power plant of the first generation tractor is a turbocharged V-shaped diesel engine with eight cylinders. The working volume of this engine is 11.75 liters. The engine complies with Euro-2 environmental standards. The manufacturer KamAZ used a system of direct fuel injection and intermediate air cooling in this engine. This made it possible to increase power to 280 horsepower. Torque is 1177 Nm. The torque plateau is available in the range from 1.3 to 1.6 thousand revolutions. As for the gearbox, it was also developed by the Kama Automobile Plant. This is the 154's five-speed transmission and features a splitter that splits each gear into two more. Thus, the total number of gears is 10.
A few years after the release of KamAZ-65116, a new nine-speed transmission appeared in the line. This time its manufacturer was the German company ZF. A diaphragm disc with a hydraulic drive and pneumatic booster is used as a clutch.
Peculiarities
The KamAZ-65116 truck tractor is an excellent alternative to some European models. When developing this model, the designers were able to realize all the qualities necessary for a full-fledged truck tractor. As a result of modernization and frequent updates, modern versions of the car have increased efficiency and safety, which makes them one of the most popular on the Russian market and in the CIS countries. Moreover, in terms of technical and operational characteristics, KamAZ-65116 is almost identical to its foreign counterparts, but has a more affordable price.
It is also necessary to note the excellent maintainability. In this model, many of the elements were unified with the rest of the products of the Kama Automobile Plant, so finding the necessary parts and consumables will not be particularly difficult. Moreover, their prices are quite reasonable. As for the design itself, it is made as simple and clear as possible, which allows for maintenance or various repair work even with a minimal set of tools.
The Kama Automobile Plant also made quite a big step in terms of comfort. The interior of the tractors has excellent ergonomics and significantly improved sound insulation compared to its predecessors. The wide windshield and large rear-view mirrors provide excellent visibility from the driver's seat. For operation in harsh weather conditions, an efficient heating system was installed that warms up the interior in almost a few minutes.
The driver's workplace is equipped with a comfortable seat with many adjustment options. In addition, it is equipped with an air suspension, which additionally smoothes out all road irregularities. Behind the seats, the developers have installed a comfortable sleeping place, allowing the driver to rest on long trips.
The engines used have excellent power performance and an impressive service life (800 thousand kilometers for the 740 series and one million for Cummins), the braking system is very effective and more reliable, and the reinforced design of the tractor allows transporting trailers with a gross weight of up to 30,000 kilograms.
In addition, it is necessary to note the modern appearance. However, the design was developed not only from an aesthetics point of view, but also to achieve improved efficiency through increased aerodynamic properties. In principle, the developers still managed to achieve this. Smooth cabin transitions and fairings provide 10-15 percent improved fuel economy.
All these advantages allowed the domestic KamAZ-65116 truck tractor to take a confident position in the market, enjoy truly great consumer demand, and compete with some analogues from European manufacturers. Moreover, models, both used and new, are popular, not only on the Russian market, but also beyond its borders.
KamAZ with Cummins
The manufacturer understood that the engine had a lot of shortcomings, so in 2012 it replaced the old KamAZ-65116 engine with a Chinese Cummins. The power unit is marked 6 ISBe 300 and complies with Euro 4 standards. Unlike the first, Cummins has only six cylinders, and all of them are arranged in a row. Engine power is 282 horsepower. Torque – 1082 Nm at one and a half thousand revolutions. The cooling system has been improved in the design. While the previous engine used a viscous clutch to drive the fan, the Cummins uses an electrical system. The engine is equipped with a turbine and an intercooler, which cools the air supplied to the intake manifold. However, reviews from owners say that the design of the air radiator has flaws. So, the owners had to increase the flow area. To do this, honeycombs were cut out and pipes were welded into the structure.
Purpose
KamAZ-65116 is intended for interregional and international transportation on public roads. The model is used in conjunction with different types of trailers and semi-trailers, including tilt, container, tipper, flatbed, and tanks. Such a wide selection of trailers significantly expands the versatility of this vehicle, providing the opportunity to work not only in transport companies, but also in various industrial sectors. But it is worth noting that regardless of the trailer used, its total weight should not exceed 38,000 kilograms.
The cabin provides a fairly comfortable sleeping area, allowing the driver to rest during multi-day flights. In addition, modern models have an AdBlue exhaust gas neutralization system, which allows the tractor to be used in countries and regions that require compliance with Euro-4 environmental standards.
Consumption
How much does this truck spend per 100 kilometers? According to the passport data, without load the car consumes 22 liters per hundred. But in practice these numbers are completely different. After all, this car is constantly working under load.
So, in the summer the car consumes from 38 to 40 liters of diesel along with a loaded semi-trailer. In winter, this figure increases by another three to five liters. By the way, the Chinese Cummins is more economical. On average, it consumes 3-5 percent less fuel than the KAMAZ engine.
Reviews from owners and drivers
- I work on a KamAZ 65116 with a Cummins 6 ISBe 300 engine. I bought this miracle two years ago. It would never have occurred to me to buy a Kamaz for long-haul transportation - I just feel sorry for the driver who, sooner or later, will complain about discomfort, problems, etc. I myself used to work, and now I hire drivers. In general, a machine was needed to work in regions within a radius of 200 kilometers. Version with tank. The Brazilian-made Cummins engine raises no complaints. It turns out that these engines are now being installed on Chinese tractors. We all have three KamAZ trucks so far, one of which is a highway truck, I worked on it. Both other cars were driven in the same direction, their current mileage is the same - 250 thousand km. The problems are mainly with the body and chassis. The cabin is still rusting. It is necessary to periodically strengthen the suspension and install additional springs. One of the tractors had problems with the engine, and antifreeze was leaking. As a result, the first capital was needed for 90 thousand km. at the 160th thousand - the second major engine overhaul. Unfortunately, at the 230th thousand the engine finally seized. On the second car the Cummins engine works without problems. But in the future I plan to no longer contact these motors. It’s better to choose a regular KAMAZ engine instead, which is at least cheaper to maintain.
- KamAZ 65116 is a big step forward compared to previous KamAZ vehicles. I have a used car made in 2012, in active use since 2022. The cabin pleasantly surprised me when I first got acquainted with the car. The pneumatic seat is the height of perfection compared to those “buckets” from the times of the USSR on which I had the opportunity to work. We were pleased with the more efficient brakes and modern optics. In the first year of operation there was a minimum of worries - the cabin did not rust at all, and the chassis did not require any modifications. By that time, the mileage was 45 thousand km (in the first year). I have a version with a livestock semi-trailer, which I worked with in rural areas - I ran it mainly on dirt and gravel. In general, the car had a hard time in such conditions. And as a result, already in the second year of use, problems began to pour out of a bucket - something would fall off, then it would leak, etc. The rear lights seemed to play “color music”, the steering wheel began to bite due to problems in the power steering - all this with mileage 85 thousand km. The piston needed to be replaced. Minor breakdowns happen, which would be okay without them. If everything is fixed and improved in a timely manner, then there should be no unscheduled repairs - at least that’s the case for me. So, if you have direct hands, this Kamaz is completely worth the money spent.
- I have Kamaz 65116 since 2016. No worries at all with him. This workhorse has long paid for itself and brings stable profits. The native KAMAZ engine is very voracious, but not demanding on the quality of fuel and oil - unlike imported engines like Cummins, etc. Yes, it is very noisy even at low speeds, but alas there is nothing to be done. High fuel consumption of 40 liters per 100 km, and at the same time the car had small tanks from the factory - fortunately, there was room to install an additional tank. The cabin is quite cramped and uncomfortable, but it warms up quickly due to the small wheelbase. But there is no air conditioning in this cabin. The suspension is very hard, as is the seat, and the small sleeping bag only allows you to rest a little, and you won’t be able to lie down comfortably – especially if you are two meters tall. Diesel fuel is constantly becoming more expensive, maintenance costs are rising, and in general the economy is going to hell. Kamaz is bringing in less and less profit due to rising costs. So I’m thinking of changing it to something more economical and reliable.
- I didn’t find a single advantage in KamAZ 65116. Hmmm, this happens. Well, except that I was impressed by the Cummins engine - perhaps this is the most reliable link in this car. True, over time, the engine also began to fail, along with other components, electrical equipment, wiring, etc. After 35 thousand km, the antifreeze was expelled through the gasket. Well, what can you do, I had to fix it right in the middle of the road. In short, the engine needed a major overhaul, but it didn’t even reach 100 thousand km. Of course, at first he impressed with his excellent traction on long climbs. The motor never turned sour or overheated, but apparently it was defective or the operating conditions were too harsh. Later I found out that this engine was made in Russia, so it was most likely defective. In terms of cross-country ability, the car deserves a positive assessment, but for the time being - the more difficult the road, the more breakdowns. The sleeping bag made me smile - what kind of gnome is it intended for? Fuel consumption is 40 liters per 100 km.
Chassis
The car has a frame structure with leaf spring suspension. There is a pivot beam at the front, and axles on balancers at the rear. The car is equipped with inter-axle and inter-wheel locking.
Braking is carried out thanks to 40-centimeter drum mechanisms. The suspension on the car is quite stiff - reviews say. However, after loading the ride improves slightly.
Suspension after 2012
During restyling, the KamAZ truck tractor received a reinforced frame that can withstand overloads. The frame consists of two spars, reinforced with cross members. The thickness of the external and internal linings has also increased. Some modifications may use air suspension. However, the front still uses a leaf-spring pivot beam. Also among the improvements can be noted the presence of a stabilizer bar. Thanks to him, the car began to roll less when cornering.
Options
Cars produced before 2012 had the same level of equipment. So, the package included:
- Increased fuel tank capacity of 500 liters.
- Hydraulic booster.
- Mechanically adjustable seat.
- Fog lights.
- Mechanical windows.
- Cabin heater.
- Two batteries and a 28-volt generator.
After modifications, the new KamAZ received:
- Improved RBL power steering.
- Adjustable steering column.
- Instrument panel with anti-glare coating.
- Improved sun visors.
However, the tank capacity has decreased to 350 liters. Fog lights have been removed from the list. They became available only as an option. Also, for an additional fee, the car is equipped with the following options:
- Air conditioner.
- Radio tape recorder.
- Electric windows.
- Armrest for driver's seat.
