KamAZ - 6520: history, euro, technical characteristics, maintenance and repair

For a long time, the Kama Automobile Plant’s lineup did not include a heavy-duty vehicle that met the latest market requirements. KamAZ-6520 has become an effective response to new market needs driven by the need to increase payload capacity. The model remained among the market leaders for over 10 years, remaining popular and in demand.

The history of the creation of the KamAZ-6520 vehicle began in the 90s. Then there was a shortage of special vehicles on the domestic market, ready to work in difficult Russian conditions and transport large loads. The Kama Automobile Plant produced many models at that time, but their technical characteristics were noticeably inferior to foreign ones

6520 restyling

analogues. KamAZ-65115 with a load capacity of 15,000 kg was actively used. However, his performance was no longer enough.

As a result, the Kama Automobile Plant developed the KamAZ-6520 car with a six-by-four wheel arrangement. An excellent worker, he coped with almost any task. Among the design features of the model were the ABS system, an all-metal welded platform and control of work from the cab.

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The truck's operating systems and components are designed for harsh operating conditions. KamAZ-6520 is not a modernization of the current version, but a completely new model developed from scratch. Initially, it was equipped with an old-style cab, since the main efforts were aimed at developing an innovative chassis. Subsequently, the cabin was replaced with a restyled one.

KamAZ-6520 became the basis for a whole family of trucks belonging to the heavy class. Its design ensured compliance with the most stringent requirements of domestic and foreign legislation. The vehicle's service life before major repairs was 500,000 km. The first maintenance should be performed after 5500 km, the second after 16500 km.

The distinctive technical features of the model are:

1. the ability to transport bulk and bulk cargo, regardless of the quality of the road surface;
2. service life increased by 15% in comparison with “predecessors”;
3. economical diesel unit;
4. large fuel tank;
5. an oval-section platform, which reduces the build-up of transported cargo and increases body rigidity;
6. high-quality gearbox and reinforced frame;
7. the presence of a hydraulic cylinder for the façade structure, which increases stability during unloading;

Taking into account the low fuel consumption and resource savings, the model is one of the best in the segment. That is why the KamAZ-6520 is in demand not only in Russia, but also in the foreign market.

The car is offered in the following modifications:

• KamAZ-6520-006,
• KamAZ-6520-60006,
• KamAZ-6520-001,
• KamAZ-6520-026-06,
• KamAZ-6520-032,
• KamAZ-6520-007,
• KamAZ-6520-036,
• KamAZ-6520-037,
• KamAZ-6520-120.

The differences between them are manifested in minor design changes.

Scope of application and technical features of KamAZ 6520

Characteristics of KAMAZ 6520
Due to their advantages, these dump trucks are now in great demand in the field of agricultural, construction and quarry work. They can be used both for delivering materials to the site and for removing construction or household waste.

Since KamAZ dump trucks have relatively low fuel consumption (up to 50 liters per 100 km), they are in great demand not only in Russia, but also in a number of European countries.

The supporting structure of the model 6520 and its various modifications is durable due to the frame side members of a straight section. The front axle and rear axle are equipped with transverse stabilizers, giving the dump truck high stability during various maneuvers and turns. Excellent cross-country ability is achieved thanks to a special mechanism that blocks cross-axle differentials.

Specifications

The vehicle's carrying capacity is 20,000 kg. KamAZ-6520 can transport cargo with a volume of 12 cubic meters, and with add-ons - up to 18 cubic meters.

Model dimensions:

• length – 7800 mm;
• width – 2500 mm;
• height – 3055 mm.

Fuel consumption of KamAZ-6520

Over 100 km of travel, the average fuel consumption of a fully loaded KamAZ-6520 is about 45.5 liters. In winter it increases to 53 liters. The figure also varies depending on operating conditions: in the city – 50.67 l/100 km, in off-road conditions – about 50 l/100 km.

Owner reviews

Review of KAMAZ 6520 2011

We can talk about twenty for a long time, but to be honest, it’s better not to bother, and for the same amount take a five-year-old Scania, which will last longer and will not, like a new KamAZ, constantly require replacement of the radiator, cylinder, cooler. Well, at first this is done under a guarantee, and then you have to do it all at your own expense.

A little later, springs and turbines begin to break, and balancer bushings fly off. In general, I wonder what the designers were thinking when they installed fluoroplastic bushings under a 30-ton body? I had to change them to bronze ones, which last for almost three years. If I had my way, I would poke the designers into every detail and ask why it was done this way?

Review of KAMAZ 6520 26014-63 2011

The first impression of the dump truck was positive - a soft cabin with air springs, it’s a pleasure to drive one. The car was driven to its tail and mane; in two months the mileage was 35 thousand km. During this period, the intercooler caused a lot of headaches, which had to be disassembled and soldered several times. As soon as we solved this problem, a problem came that we have not been able to cope with for almost two months. At a certain point, the truck stopped gaining momentum.

At idle, the engine runs like a clock, but after warming up the check light comes on and the dump truck stands up, as if an anchor was attached to it from behind. If you turn off the engine and start it again, everything is fine until it reaches 1500 rpm. Specialists from Perm arrived and spent almost ten hours trying to make a diagnosis. The computer generated error 1121 - a malfunction of the fuel supply system. The specialist said that he was 90% sure that the problem was in the injectors. The diagnosis seemed dubious to me, but there was nothing to do - I had to send the car to a service center, where these same injectors were adjusted.

After the adjustment, we put the injectors in place - everything was the same, no changes. The service center specialists said that they would have to remove the pump. They went through the pump, cleaned something there, adjusted it and said that now everything should work perfectly. We put it on a truck - it’s the same story... So we’ve been racking our brains over this riddle for two months now.

Review of KAMAZ 6520 2012

We have this KamAZ truck in our garage, a 20-ton truck. With a 740 engine, boosted to 320 horses. 16-speed ZF gearbox, gear axles. In general, there are different modifications - with and without inter-wheel locking. There are options with an 8-speed gearbox, but you shouldn’t mess with these. The engine in this version has an extremely narrow range of operating speeds; below 1000 revolutions the thrust is generally just like a moped.

For me, this KamAZ is inferior to the three-axle MAZ in all respects, except the cab. The engine, frame, suspension are weaker than those of MAZ. At the same time, it is more expensive and more difficult to maintain. Our office already operates several such KamAZ trucks, and the reviews about these vehicles are contradictory.

Engine

Until 2008, the KamAZ-6520 was equipped with a classic diesel unit that met Euro-2 requirements. This engine was intercooled and turbocharged.

However, then the Kama Automobile Plant decided to modify the engine. Now the car is equipped with an advanced diesel engine that meets Euro-3 standards. The power plant differs from its predecessors in being more environmentally friendly.

Engine parameters:

• working volume – 11.76 l;
• rated power - 400 hp;
• maximum torque – 1225 Nm.

Characteristics, modifications of KAMAZ 6520

Content:

The KAMAZ-6520 dump truck has been produced since 2004. KAMAZ has a 6X4 wheel arrangement and a rear-load cargo platform. This dump truck with a load capacity of 20 tons is designed for road transportation of a full coverage of bulk cargo and construction materials.

Dimensions, weight and load capacity of KAMAZ 6520.

Engine KAMAZ 6520

Initially, KAMAZ 6520 was equipped with a KAMAZ-740.51-320 turbocharged engine. This version of the power unit was developed in the early 1990s. Its power is 320 horsepower, meeting the Euro-2 environmental standard.

In 2009, KAMAZ 6520 dump trucks began to be equipped with the KAMAZ-740.63-400 engine, which complies with the EURO-3 environmental standard. This eight-cylinder engine has a V-shaped cylinder arrangement and has a displacement of 11.76 liters and produces up to 400 horsepower with a maximum torque of 1,225 Nm.

Also, since 2008, some dump trucks began to be equipped with Cummins ISLe +350 power units. In general, the Cummins engine has better efficiency indicators than the KAMAZ-740 engine. The working volume is 8.9 liters, rated power is 334 hp, maximum torque is 2738 Nm, environmental class is Euro-3.

Currently, KamAZ-6520 dump trucks are equipped with new KamAZ-740.73-400 engines with the EURO-4 environmental class. This eight-cylinder engine has a V-shaped cylinder arrangement, turbocharging and intercooling of charge air, equipped with a progressive “Common Rail” fuel supply system. The maximum net power of the KamAZ-740.73-400 is 294 kW (400 hp), with a crankshaft speed of 1900 rpm.

Transmission KAMAZ 6520

Currently, the dump truck is equipped with a ZF-16S1820 gearbox - mechanical, sixteen-speed. The gear ratio of the double final drive of the gearbox is 5.11. The clutch is installed of a diaphragm, single-disc type. Drive – hydraulic, with pneumatic booster.

Frame and cargo platform KAMAZ 6520

The dump truck has an all-metal reinforced welded platform that tilts back. Control is carried out directly from the cabin. The body is protected by a visor covering the space between the cabin and it

The strength and durability of the frame is ensured by straight-section spars equipped with reinforcements. The suspension has not changed since the USSR period, as it has proven its effectiveness.

Suspension and chassis of KAMAZ 6520

The KamAZ 20-ton truck is equipped with a hydraulic tipping device driven by a power take-off, a powerful subframe and a body stop. The loading platform is lifted by a hydraulic cylinder of the façade structure, which increases stability during unloading.

KAMAZ-6520 is equipped with drive axles with a single-stage main gear and planetary-type wheel reducers. This design not only increases the clearance of the bridge, but also significantly increases the reliability and durability of the bridges, which is especially important when operating a truck with overload.

Cabin KAMAZ 6520

The cab type is the same as on all KamAZ vehicles - located above the engine, with a high roof, three-seater, all-metal. Cabs are usually not equipped with a sleeping area, although some vehicles are equipped with extended cabs. KAMAZ 6520 cabs are also equipped with air suspension. The driver is given a wide range of options to choose from for comfortable work: a normally adjustable driver's seat and steering column, air conditioning, heater, audio system, power steering, a new ergonomic dashboard and side mirrors with improved visibility.

Modifications of KAMAZ 6520

Currently there are 6 modifications of KAMAZ 6520:

• KAMAZ-6520-029 - this model is almost no different from the standard modification. The model has an increased volume of the body - 20 cubes instead of 12, like the standard one;
• KAMAZ-6520-010-60 – unloading on 3 sides is available. The price of a car starts from 2,500,000 rubles;
• KamAZ-6520-73 is a version where the cargo is heated to prevent freezing of the cargo. The price starts from 2,300,000 rubles.
• KamAZ-6520-43 – dump trucks of this modification are equipped with power units with the EURO-4 environmental standard. The price starts from 3,500,000 rubles.
• KamAZ-65221 is a tractor unit with a fifth wheel coupling mechanism.
• KamAZ-65225 is a tractor unit with a fifth wheel coupling mechanism.

Driver reviews about KAMAZ 6520

Malfunctions KAMAZ 6520

First of all, the pump suffers from low-quality oil. Since diesel fuel lubricates the injectors and injection pump. Wear of working parts occurs quickly if the fluid is of poor quality. Maintenance also requires a systematic approach. The fuel filter must be changed every 10,000 km.

The turbine also suffers from breakdowns. Low quality fuel is also to blame for this. After all, the turbine runs on the energy of exhaust gases; soot removed from the cylinders leaves a thick coating on the impeller. At one point, the compressor may break down. To avoid these problems, you need to change the oil regularly. It is important to select high-quality filters; you can save on oil.

Corrosion has been a problem with KamAZ-6520 since the 90s. Optics also have disadvantages. The headlights are made of plastic and over time they begin to become cloudy. Factory fog lights generally do not cope with the task at hand. Owners immediately replace them with powerful options.

Device and reviews

KamAZ-6520 is equipped with a large dump platform with rear unloading. The body is capable of lifting even large loads thanks to powerful hydraulics. The volume of the body when transporting light loads can be increased by means of extension sides provided by the design. Excellent traction and dynamic characteristics allow the machine to overcome an incline of 25% even when fully loaded.

The traditional “Kamaz” rumble of the vehicle disappeared thanks to a number of measures that made it possible to make the model comply with the requirements of UNECE rules. Reduced noise makes working on KamAZ-6520 more comfortable.

inside the cab of KamAZ-6520

The model is equipped with a modernized cabin with a high roof, which has a lower belt and an original buffer. The introduction of an additional step into the design of this element ensured maximum ease of landing. A set of rear-view mirrors also appeared here, which increased the visibility for the driver driving the dump truck.

A new type of safety steering wheel has appeared in the dump truck cab. A hydraulic turn limiter was added to the steering mechanism, designed to prevent breakage of the steering rods. The car was also equipped with an anti-lock brake system.

The drive axles of KamAZ-6520 have planetary wheel reduction gears and a 1-speed main gear. This design, in addition to increasing ground clearance, ensures greater reliability and durability of bridges even under constant overloads. The frame spars have the same cross-section along the entire length; solid reinforcements of the side members make the load-bearing elements of the truck more durable.

Vehicle stability is achieved by installing anti-roll bars on the front axle and rear axle. Difficult road conditions will not be a problem for KamAZ-6520. Locking cross-axle differentials can significantly increase its cross-country ability.

The car also had its downsides. Owners complained about the fuel and brake systems, speedometer and generator. However, problems appeared only in the first modifications; later the manufacturer eliminated them.

In 2010, the Kama Automobile Plant presented a restyled version of the dump truck that meets advanced requirements. Now this model is one of the flagships of the brand.

Historical information about the KamAZ 6520 dump truck

Dump truck KamAZ 6520

Until 2000, the Kama Automobile Plant produced dump trucks, the maximum axle load of which was limited to 10–13 tons. The carrying capacity of the improved KamAZ 55111 model was increased to 15 tons, but such indicators did not meet the needs of the “construction boom” that occurred in the Russian Federation at the beginning of the new millennium.

It was during this period that a team of engineers and designers developed the KamAZ 6520 model, intended for agricultural, quarry and construction work, with a load capacity of 20 tons.

When creating the KamAZ 6520, employees of the Kama Automobile Plant decided to abandon old developments, making the design of the model different from all its predecessors. As a result, this modification of KamAZ acquired a reinforced frame, advanced hydraulics and a new power plant. An impressive part of the components was replaced with foreign-made parts; only the dump truck cabin remained without major changes.

Price of new and used KamAZ-6520

The cost of KamAZ-6520 varies significantly depending on the technical characteristics. Thus, a 320-horsepower modification without a berth with a load capacity of 20,000 kg, supplemented with inter-axle and inter-wheel locking and platform heating, will cost 2.5 million rubles.

Dump truck with a foreign CumminsISLe unit of 400 hp. in the database it will cost 2.6 million rubles.

Additional equipment can increase the cost of the machine to almost 3 million rubles. However, with rational use of the KamAZ-6520 it pays for itself quite quickly.

The cost of a shift (rent) on a KamAZ-6520 will cost 7,000-9,000 rubles.

Driving impressions

Getting into and out of the cab is not much different from previous KAMAZ models. The driver's seat doesn't add any new sensations either. But the ZF gear shift lever is noticeably different from the traditional KAMAZ one for the better. In general, the licensed box fits very well into the KamAZ-6520 transmission system. In addition to a high-quality, reliable mechanism, the gear ratios and switching pattern are very well selected.

The dynamics of acceleration demonstrated quite acceptable driving characteristics of the truck. The engine provides a maximum speed of 100 to 107 km/h, which is quite enough for cars in this class. With a full load, the dump truck accelerates to 60 km/h in 37-39 seconds.

Overall, my impressions of the truck were quite good. True, we, as specialists, were to a certain extent alarmed by the readings of the truck’s oil pressure sensor. When the power unit is warmed up, regardless of the speed, the pressure sensor indicator needle is in the middle of the yellow sector of the scale. And this despite the fact that the car’s mileage is extremely short, only 3,000 kilometers. For example, in a Scania with a 10,000th mileage, the pressure in the lubrication system at 1500 rpm is stable at 6-7 bar, and at idle it is about 3 bar.

In conclusion, we note that if the reliability parameters of KamAZ vehicles within the specified mileage correspond to foreign analogues, at their cost they will be in good demand on the market.