Dump truck KamAZ-6520 “Mammoth”: technical characteristics, owner reviews

About the history of the KamAZ-6520 model

KamAZ-6520 dump trucks are one of those main families of the Kama Automobile Plant, which allow the company to confidently maintain a leading position in the truck market in the CIS. Being designed for the transportation of bulk construction, agricultural and industrial cargo on roads with an axle load limit of 10-13 tons, this particular vehicle more than ten years ago became the very first heavy-duty dump truck in the KamAZ plant product line.

Until the beginning of the 2000s, the most powerful dump trucks produced at the Kama Automobile Plant were the KamAZ-55111 with a carrying capacity of 13 tons, as well as the heavier KamAZ-65115, with a carrying capacity of 15 tons. But at the beginning of the new century, a real grandiose “construction boom” unfolded in the country, and the capabilities of these machines were not always sufficient for the growing needs of the booming construction industry.

Therefore, in just a few years, a new model of a dump truck with a 20-ton payload was quickly developed. This vehicle, designed for large-scale construction, quarrying and agricultural work (grain trucks), having a load capacity of up to 20 tons, has become the most powerful dump truck in the vehicle line. Its serial production started in 2003.

An important point: KamAZ-6520 was not a modernization of dump trucks previously produced by the company, or a copy of any of the trucks from other manufacturers. This is a completely new model, developed from scratch.

It is characteristic that by 2003, many KamAZ models had already undergone restyling and acquired a more comfortable new-style cabin: with more comfortable seats, new-style instrument panels, with climate and acoustic systems. However, the new KamAZ-6520 dump truck received an outdated cabin, developed “under Tsar Gorokh,” and was equipped with it until 2007. Then it was finally replaced with a restyled one. However, not only KamAZ, but also many other automakers have traditionally not considered it necessary to take care of the comfortable work of dump truck drivers. But now the KamAZ-6520 cab is in no way inferior to other company vehicles in terms of comfort.

What's under his cabin?

Appearance

The operating systems and components of the truck were designed to withstand difficult operating conditions. Our review guest cannot be called an improved working version; it is a completely new model that was developed from scratch. From the very beginning, the car was equipped with a previous model cabin, which is already outdated. They decided not to touch it for now because the main efforts were directed towards researching the innovative chassis. A little later, the cabin was replaced with a more improved one. This made it possible to abandon the literally obsolete and morally old cabin. The new one began to look more beautiful, received new headlights (lens optics) and a visor. The car had a high roof, which had a lower belt and a unique buffer.

The fact that this element was introduced into the design made it possible to ensure the most convenient boarding and disembarking of people. The windshield was not divided, but was solid. As many as 3 wipers will be able to clear it from rain or snow, which will allow you to get better visibility. There are also additional mirrors that will help you be more mobile without fear of catching the car and damaging it. The cabin is raised using a standard hydraulic booster. The section for the mechanical method of lifting the cabin was placed on the traditional right side, but under the passenger door between the lower and upper legs.

The body itself is also presented with an oval section of 16 cubes. The shape of such a body makes it possible to reduce the sticking of cargo by changing the center of gravity of the load closer to the middle of the body.

Salon

Getting into the KamAZ-6520 cab, you immediately notice the presence of a safety steering wheel, which has received a new look. The steering wheel control device already had a hydraulic rotation limiter, which was intended to prevent the steering rods from coming out of position. The steering column itself is adjustable in angle, which will allow it to be adjusted to any driver. The dashboard is quite informative, all the required controls are at hand, the buttons are all convenient and pleasant to the touch. The instrument board received two large dials, where the left one shows the speed mode, and the right one shows the speed of the power unit (up to 3,000 rpm). There is a monochrome small rectangular display showing other relevant information (mileage, etc.).

They didn’t forget to install cup holders, and on the front panel there is a small island table that can be used for your needs. The cabin is much more comfortable than previous models; the glass is panoramic, which increases visibility. The company's design staff decided not to install a sleeping place. Moreover, the KamAZ 6520 can even have an air conditioner for an additional fee, which allows you to close the windows in hot weather in the summer and work in a cool environment, getting less tired. There is convenient access to fuses. The upper part received a pair of speakers located on the sides, glove compartments and a recess located in the middle for various things. The doors still don't have power windows, which is a bit disappointing.

We made thermal and noise insulation of the engine and gearbox, which made the driver and passenger feel more comfortable. The cabin received air suspension, which increases the level of comfort for the driver and passenger. In addition, the KamAZ-6520 has pneumatic seats, which are independently adjustable (can be raised, lowered, moved forward and backward). The new domestic dump truck is quite easy to drive, not much heavier than a passenger car.

Engines "KAMAZ-6520"

KamAZ-6520 dump trucks of the first years of production were equipped with KamAZ-740.51-320 diesel engines with a turbocharging system. This version of the classic KamAZ power unit was developed in the early 1990s, and was also used for other families of Kama trucks. The power of this engine is 320 horsepower, compliance with the environmental standard - Euro-2.

Since 2009, the company began equipping KamAZ-6520 dump trucks with new KamAZ-740.63-400 engines that already meet the Euro-3 standard. This V-shaped 8-cylinder engine has greater performance than its predecessor. Its characteristics are as follows: displacement – ​​11.76 liters, rated power – 400 horsepower, maximum torque – 1766 Nm, compression ratio – 16.5. A turbocharging system is also present.

Since 2008, some KamAZ-6520 vehicles also began to be equipped with Cummins ISLe +350 engines. The Cummins power unit generally shows better efficiency indicators than the KamAZ-740 engine. Characteristics of the Cummins ISLe +350 engine: displacement - 8.9 liters, rated power - 334 hp, maximum torque - 2738 Nm, environmental class - Euro-3.

Engine "KAMAZ-740.73-400" under the cab of the truck.

Currently, KamAZ-6520 dump trucks are equipped with new KamAZ-740.73-400 (Euro-4) engines. This is an 8-cylinder V-shaped diesel engine with 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), at a crankshaft speed of 1900 rpm.

The maximum useful torque is 1766 Nm (180 kgcm), at a crankshaft speed of 1250 -1350 rpm. The working volume is the same as the previous version – 11.76 liters. Cylinder diameter – 120 mm, piston stroke – 130 mm Compression ratio is 17.9. The engine is equipped with a pre-start heater “PZhD 15.8106-01”. The capacity of KamAZ-6520 fuel tanks is 350 liters. The traction and dynamic parameters of the engine and the dump truck itself allow the truck to easily overcome 25% inclines when the loading platform is fully loaded.

Let's summarize

The plant continues to pay attention to cars of the classic family and its production does not seem altruistic. For many operators, interchangeability of parts and availability of service play an important role, while others no longer want to put up with an outdated cabin and low-power, noisy engine. Therefore, the strategic direction of development, where the maximum use of the traditional chassis and component base of classic KAMAZ vehicles, but with a new cabin and smooth modernization in order to meet all modern standards, is fully justified.

The externally similar KAMAZ-6580 dump truck with a 6x4 wheel arrangement will soon receive 16-ton axles, a new frame and a more advanced engine, which will allow a total weight of at least 41 tons, but the price tag will be significantly higher. But now foremen will have a visible choice.

Transmission "KAMAZ-6520"

The clutch is installed diaphragm, single-disc type. Drive – hydraulic, with pneumatic booster. The gearbox currently installed on the KamAZ-6520 is “ZF-16S1820” - mechanical, sixteen-speed. The gear ratio of the double final drive gearbox is 5.11.

By the way, the “pre-restyling” KamAZ-6520 cars were also equipped with a modern imported gearbox, also only an eight-speed one: “ZF-8S1820”. However, now these manual transmissions are already “only half” imported, since they are produced under license from a German company at a plant in Naberezhnye Chelny.

The KamAZ-6520 transmission provides the vehicle with high traction and dynamic performance with a relatively low level of fuel consumption: 40-55 liters per 100 km (depending on the type of engine installed and operating conditions). This model is also equipped with lockable cross-wheel and center differentials and a modern ABS system.

Manual

The operating instructions contain basic information about the transport mechanism, preparing it for operation, rules and frequency of maintenance, and main malfunctions.

For reliable and smooth operation of the engine, it is recommended to use the following types of fuel and oil that have passed the necessary tests and have been approved for use.

• The quality of diesel fuel must meet all the requirements of the GOST 305-82 standard when refueling a car used outside the city. The main parameter of this standard is the percentage of sulfur content in diesel equal to 0.5%. If the truck is operated within the city, the sulfur in the fuel should be no more than 0.1%. When choosing fuel, you should also take into account the time of year and air temperature (brands that are used in the summer have the letter “L”, and brands that are used in winter have the letter “Z”).
• Motor oil must be used in groups CE or CF-4 (according to API). The viscosity class of the oil is selected depending on the ambient temperature. For example, 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 oil is suitable for engine operation in all seasons in areas with moderate or cold climates.

Important KamAZ-6522: technical characteristics of the dump truck, electrical diagram

If minor damage occurs, you can use the diagram and instructions for self-repair. Otherwise, you should contact customer service.

Steering and brake control, electrical equipment

The KamAZ-6520 steering mechanism is equipped with power steering and a hydraulic rotation limiter, which prevents damage to the steering rods. This dump truck is also equipped with a safety steering wheel.

Brakes – with pneumatic drive. Dimensions: drum diameter – 420 mm; Brake lining width – 180 mm.

"KAMAZ-6520" with a U-shaped body.

The internal network voltage is 24 Volts. There are two batteries, 12 Volts / 190 Ampere Hours each. Generator – 28 V / 2000 W

conclusions

It is impossible to speak unambiguously about the model. This applies to both new and old year models. Some changes had a positive effect on the car: appearance, body, useful functions.

Manufacturers added a new engine and increased power. KamAZ-6520 operators began to feel more comfortable in the cab. The air suspension seat also had a positive effect. The operator can sit in a way that is comfortable for him by adjusting his seat.

The cabin is also equipped with air cushions, which is a plus for comfort. Air conditioning is important in hot weather.

But the car still consumes a lot. And the design does not reach the level of European competitors. But for hard and dirty work it’s just the thing.

Owners of cars of these models were able to identify many shortcomings. This refers to regular breakdowns and frequent replacement of bearings. Manufacturers are trying to improve existing models and create new ones, but so far many drivers have already drawn their conclusions.

Some believe that it is easier to purchase a used car from a European manufacturer than to buy a new KamAZ-6520. But these are too hot reviews.

Frame, cargo platform, suspension and chassis "KAMAZ-6520"

To achieve higher load capacity, power and efficiency than its predecessors, KamAZ-6520 acquired completely new modern hydraulics, a reinforced frame and a number of units not only of domestic but also foreign production. For example, many cars were produced with Hungarian drive axles.

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.

The heavy dump truck received an all-metal reinforced welded platform that tilts back. Initially, the body did not have a heating system, but in 2007 this technical solution was implemented. The platform is controlled directly from the driver's cabin. The body is protected by a canopy that covers the space between it and the cabin.

"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.

The durability of the supporting structure is ensured by straight-section frame spars equipped with reinforcements. Transverse stabilizers are installed on the rear axle and front axle, which contribute to greater stability of the heavy truck when cornering and when maneuvering. The cross-axle differential locking mechanism provides a significant increase in the truck's cross-country ability, which makes it suitable for use in off-road conditions too.

Suspension - spring. The wheels are disc mounted, with pneumatic tubeless tires. Rim size – 9.00-22.5. Tire size – 315/80 R22.5.

Video review

A grain truck based on the new generation DAIMLER KAMAZ-65207-S5 chassis - designed for transporting grain, equipped with a metal platform.
TIPPER UNLOADING. You can buy a KAMAZ 65207 grain truck in different modifications (tipper, flatbed, three-way unloading), depending on which modification suits you for your work. Price

6 500 000rub.

Cabin on springs, 1 berth.

Dump body with two-way side unloading.

• Internal dimensions of the platform, no less than 7200*2420*1500 mm.
• Extension sides +300 mm up to 30 cubic meters.
• The tailgate is folding.

3-axle trailer with single-pitch tires, 7 wheels on steel rims (6+1 spare). wheels - Russian production, tires - Russian production 385/65R22.5.

The platform is steel, box-type with folding lower side sides with an upper hinge, the opening/locking of the side boards is mechanical, done manually; The upper side boards are rigidly fixed to the platform posts.

• The front sides are fixed;
• Tailgate - folding
• To prevent the sides from opening in the presence of a person in front of them, a single locking and holding mechanism is provided for two rows of sides; it is opened using a handle on the front trim; for one side it is opened using a handle on the rear trim;
• In the front part of the body there is a metal platform with a folding ladder for access to the body and winding up/unwinding the canopy;
• A ladder and/or handrail is installed on the front wall of the front side;
• To give rigidity to the body, the racks are tied together with chains on the inside, the chains are arranged diagonally, and they are also tied together with horizontally located rigid rods;
• To transport fine bulk cargo and ensure a tighter fit of the sides, seals are provided on each opening, and a metal corner is installed on each folding side in its lower part;
• A stationary canopy (PVC with a density of 650 g/m2) with arched arches (to prevent sagging) is included in the package;
• Body material: steel “09G2S”, bottom thickness – 4 mm, side panel thickness – 3 mm;
• The volume of the dump platform is no less than 30 cubic meters. m;
• The internal dimensions of the platform are no less than 7258x2458x1650mm.

Hydraulic equipment:

• Telescopic hydraulic cylinder in the amount of 2 units. with longitudinal arrangement;
• The lifting mechanism is controlled remotely from the driver's cabin.

Chassis:

• Welded frame, with two side members made of channels of variable cross-section;
• Reinforced, trapezoidal drawbar with a “Euro-loop”, coupling ring diameter 50 mm;
• Turntable made in Russia;
• Plastic fenders with rubber mud flaps over the rear bogie and front axle;
• License plate mounting bracket and spare wheel holder with winding system;
• Metal or plastic tool box;
• Installation of side protection and rear underrun protection is provided in accordance with UNECE rules;
• It is possible to apply reflective contour markings to the dump platform in accordance with UNECE rules.

Technical specifications in numbers

• Overall length – 7710…7800 mm; Width – 2500 mm; Height – 3010 mm;
• Wheelbase – 3600 mm;
• Front overhang – 1320 mm;
• The distance between the axles of the rear bogie is 1440 mm;
• Curb weight – 13025…14500 kg;
• Front axle load – 5305…6300 kg; load on the rear bogie – 7720…8200 kg;
• Load capacity – 20000 kg;
• Maximum trailer weight – 20000 kg;
• Gross vehicle weight – 33100 kg;
• Front axle load – 7500 kg; load on the rear bogie – 25600 kg;
• Permissible trailer weight – 20,000 kg;
• The total weight of the road train is 53100 kg;
• The volume of the cargo platform is 12...16...20 cubic meters; the largest volume is in the modification “KAMAZ-6520-23072-63” (“Grain carrier”): 33 cubic meters of cargo.
• The lifting angle of the loading platform is 50 degrees.

Ten-ton trucks with increased volume

If it is necessary to transport large-sized light cargo, trucks with increased body volume are used. The sides are equipped with a frame on which the awning is installed. It protects the contents of the body from the influence of precipitation.

The rear part of the platform is equipped with a gate through which the vehicle is loaded and unloaded. The increased height of the platform allows you to load large luggage.

The overall dimensions of platforms with increased volume are as follows:

• The internal volume of the body is from 40 to 60 m3;
• Platform length – from 6.5 to 8 meters;
• Width – from 2.43 to 2.45 meters;
• Maximum load capacity – 10,000 kilograms;
• The height to the upper edge of the platform is from 2.5 to 3 meters.

The wheel arrangement and ground clearance depend on the type of chassis. You can also read about How to pump power steering on a KamAZ.

ATTENTION: If it is necessary to transport non-standard or very large cargo, a road train is used. It consists of a KamAZ truck tractor and a semi-trailer

The volume of the semi-trailer can reach 122m2.

New modifications based on KamAZ-6520

The KamAZ-6520 dump truck became the basis for a whole family of trucks belonging to the heavy class. The new design ensured compliance with all current requirements of domestic and foreign legislation. The vehicle's service life before major repairs is 500 thousand kilometers. The first maintenance should be performed after 5500 km, the second after 16500 km.

Over the years of production, about a dozen modifications of the KamAZ-6520 were produced, the differences between which consist in minor design features and configuration options. Currently, the KamAZ-6520-73 modification remains in mass production, in nine configuration options, each of which has its own factory index. But they all have the same engine brand - KamAZ-740.73-400 (Euro-4), with Common Rail; and the manual transmission is also similar - “ZF-16S1820”. In addition to the rectangular and enlarged “grain” body, U-shaped (or, in Russian speaking, “trough-shaped”) bodies are also installed on the KamAZ-6520 chassis.

"KAMAZ-6520-23072-63" grain truck with trailer.

Since the KamAZ-6520 was the first model developed by our vehicle in quite a long time, new specialized trucks were soon created on its basis. So, in addition to the already mentioned “grain” modification “KAMAZ-6520-23072-63” with a 33-cc body, the first domestic four-axle trucks were built on the basis of the KamAZ-6520 chassis. This is a KamAZ-6540 dump truck with an additional steered axle (8x4 drive), capable of transporting up to 18.5 tons of various bulk cargo. This is a four-axle heavyweight (also 8x4) KamAZ-65201, which is capable of carrying up to 25 tons of cargo.

Such specialized machines are in demand wherever there are axle load restrictions. And for operation in the most difficult road conditions - in quarries, off-road, an all-wheel drive three-axle (“6x6”) modification of the dump truck was developed - “KAMAZ-6522”, with a maximum load capacity of 19 tons.

Versatility or thriftiness?

The NEFAZ body with a geometric capacity of 16 m3 is designed to transport 21 tons of cargo and is equipped with a tailgate. Judging by the vertical stiffening ribs, it means working with lumpy bulk cargo. The bottom of the platform is welded from 6 mm Swedish Hardox steel, the sides are made from S500MC steel 5 mm thick. But this is still excess weight. The platform lift angle of 50º and heating by exhaust gases allows you to work in the off-season and in winter and with such plastic loads as alumina. If you look at analogues of similar tonnage, you will find that Chinese manufacturers mastered the Russian market with just such bodies, completely rejecting lightweight body models without developed side rigidity.

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. “Purely dump truck” version: without sleeping place. Although some cars also have extended cabs with a berth. The KamAZ-6520 cab is equipped with air suspension.

As already noted, the KamAZ-6520 received more modern cabs of the new model only after 2007. Now the car interior looks quite decent, having the necessary set of options for the driver’s comfortable work. Namely, 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.

Financial catharsis

So what kind of fruit is this – “Lux” 6520-B5?

This is not yet a new 6580 family and not a further development of the 6520 model, which traces its lineage back to the late 1990s. But what?

The orange dump truck with the index KAMAZ-6520-26012-53, which we considered as a compromise between budget and manufacturability, is equipped with a K3 generation cab, a modernized V-engine of the 740 family and a 20-cubic-meter body. Is it worth kicking the old cabin because it is cheaper by a quarter of a million rubles?

The cherry version of the KAMAZ-6520-B5 “Lux” received a more advanced K4 cab from the Mercedes-Benz Axor. The new K4 cabin is the ultimate in comfort for the dump truck driver. He spends a quarter of his working life in the interior of the car, and the main thing is the quality of the inhabited space. If a classic KAMAZ with a K3 cab is a means of earning money and spending the night, then in the new K4 cab the world seems a little more rosy and allows you to understand what the interior of a modern dump truck should look like.

Reviews about "KAMAZ-6520"

In general, the KamAZ-6520 could become a worthy alternative to similar, but much more expensive imported dump trucks to purchase and maintain. It is able to work normally in such domestic conditions as bad roads or their absence; not the best quality fuel; low level of maintenance in most regions. The only price cheaper than its “Belarusian brother” is the 20-ton MAZ-5516.

Owners and drivers note that the welding of the KamAZ-6520 body is clearly superior in quality to the MAZ-5516 and similar Chinese-made trucks. The design of disc wheels with stud fastening to the hubs, in the opinion of many, is more reliable in comparison with previous discless wheels with a wedge clamp. In such a design, there are no problems with the wheels being misaligned if installed incorrectly.

After restyling, the dump truck acquired a new type of cabin.

The ZF gear shift lever and the operation of the manual transmission itself are noticeably different from the previous KamAZ gearbox for the better. In general, working in the new type of cabin is much more comfortable.

On the Internet you can find many angry reviews from drivers about the poor quality of KamAZ-6520 components, careless assembly and insufficient reliability of many components and assemblies. As one of the drivers put it, “you can continue to write endlessly about constant minor and major breakdowns, as well as about pull-ups, welding, welding, and much more. Conclusion - yes, you can drive, the price is low, but in terms of breakdowns the price at the end of operation will be much higher than that of a foreign car.” At the same time, it is more expensive and more difficult to repair and maintain than the MAZ three-axle 20-ton truck MAZ-5516.

Determination of volume

Sometimes we don’t even think about how much a cube of this or that material weighs, for example, crushed stone or sand. However, to calculate the cost of transportation services, road carriers use an indicator that characterizes the weight of the cargo.

How many cubes of a particular material will fit in a KAMAZ truck depends on various factors. Among them the most important can be identified:

• Vehicle modification. For each model, the maximum load capacity values ​​are determined in cubic meters or tons;
• Type of material transported. Each of them has certain characteristics: density, humidity, fraction, etc. As a result, different materials will require different volumes for the same weight.

Knowing all the necessary data, you can make the calculations yourself. The table calculates the mass density of some materials that are most often transported on KAMAZ vehicles.

Sand

When transporting sand, its type is of particular importance. Most often the following are transported in the back of a KAMAZ:

• Dry sand;
• Building;
• Construction dry friable;
• Construction dry compacted;
• Career.

The bulk density of each of them varies from 1200 to 1700 kg/cubic meter. Thus, to transport 10 tons of sand, a platform with a volume of 12 to 17 cubic meters will be required.

Crushed stone

Transporting crushed stone also requires careful calculation to select the optimal truck. To do this, it is necessary to take into account the fraction of the building material. The bulk density indicator depends on it.

The following types of crushed stone are used on construction sites:

• Granite fraction from 20 to 250 mm. Its density will vary from 1370 to 1400 kg per cubic meter;
• Limestone fraction from 10 to 70 mm. The bulk density of such building materials varies from 1250 to 1330 kg/cubic meter;
• Crushed gravel offers a wide range of fractions. Its bulk density will be from 1600 to 1730 kilograms per cubic meter;
• Slag with a density of 800 kg/m3;
• Expanded clay fraction from 5 to 40 mm. For it, it is necessary to select a dump truck based on a density from 210 kg per cubic meter to 450;
• Secondary, which is characterized by a density in the range of 1200 - 3000 kg/cubic meter.

Land for the plot

In addition to building materials, KAMAZ trucks are used to transport land for summer cottages. This need arises when carrying out work on landscaping a personal or local area or registering a land plot. As with other materials, in this case the maximum volume of transported cargo depends on its density. On average, one KAMAZ can deliver from 5 to 7 tons of earth to your site.

Firewood

Thanks to the design features of the platform, KAMAZ is perfectly suited for transporting timber. Depending on the modification of the KAMAZ dump truck, one vehicle can load from 25 to 45 cubic meters of logs.

If you use KAMAZ to transport sawn firewood, then one vehicle will be able to transport from 5 to 7 cubic meters of logs. This indicator is influenced by the shape of the cut and the option of laying firewood in the car body.