MAZ timber trucks: models, technical characteristics

The Minsk Automobile Plant is one of the honored and oldest manufacturers of transport for transporting timber throughout the entire former Union. The cars are distinguished by their reliability and high cross-country ability. In addition, the developers have released several modifications, each of which can perform complex work or a specific task. You can still see MAZ timber trucks of the first production on the roads, not to mention the latest models.

Constructive series

The range of the Belarusian plant has developed a lot of modifications for transporting timber. Among them:

A MAZ tractor with an extended frame (log truck), designed for transporting short timber, has high maneuverability and is capable of transporting cargo over any distance.
Trucks with a rotating bunk interact with a trailed spreader. The transport has good maneuverability and is excellent for local movements.
A semi-trailer paired with a truck tractor allows you to transport timber of any length.
Trailers for traveling as part of a road train.
Manipulators equipped with a bucket, working with pipes and round timber.

New models are equipped with a telescopic boom, which folds in a triple position and can reach a reach of about seven meters.

Device

The design of these units is quite simple. The basis is an ordinary MAZ truck, which can also be used for other special equipment. So, what are the different types of technology:

Log carriers are a base chassis on which a special lattice body is installed to hold logs. Between the body and the cabin a manipulator can be placed, which is nothing more than an excavator arm with grab equipment. Such trucks can be either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive and have a 6x4 or 6x6 wheel arrangement.
Trucks with a swivel bunk have a short wheelbase and are a regular tractor, to which a swing trailer with a second bunk is attached. The logs are secured between them, and the rotating structure is necessary to make it possible to make a turn. A hydraulic manipulator can also be located immediately behind the cabin. For easier transportation, the trailer is lifted onto the truck using a winch.
For the trailer, a regular frame is taken, on which a special body is simply installed to hold the logs. And since there is no need to transport bulk materials, it can be made of lattice to save material and reduce weight. The semi-trailer is made according to the same principle.

MAZ-509: device

Based on the 500 series, the MAZ-509 was built, a timber carrier that differed from its predecessor in a number of parameters. Its release began in the late sixties of the last century in several interpretations. At that time, the truck was considered one of the most modern cars in its class.

The power unit of this model was almost identical to the “five hundredth” MAZ. Its role was played by the YaMZ-236 engine, which was equipped with six cylinders arranged in a V-shape and a water cooling system. The transmission installed on the new MAZ timber trucks was significantly different from previous models. The car received all-wheel drive, a five-speed gearbox, and a standard axle design.

To transport wood with this tractor, two two-axle trailers (GKB-9383 and TMZ-803M) were used, which were equipped with a special hauling mechanism. This made it possible to fold the trailer and load it onto a tractor; when laying out the structure, the result was a timber truck with four axles and two drive axles. This transformability made it possible to move in the most inaccessible places.

History of the creation of MAZ-6303

The history of the MAZ-6303 model began back in 1965. It was then that Belarusian designers began to take the first steps towards creating full-fledged three-axle trucks with increased payload capacity. The need to create such cars was determined by the rapidly increasing volumes of cargo transportation, as well as the poor quality and insufficient ramifications of roads of that time.

The engineers implemented their first developments in the segment of three-axle heavy-duty trucks in the MAZ-516 onboard truck with a suspended rear axle, the MAZ-520 and 515 truck tractors, as well as in the MAZ-514 onboard mainline tractor with a middle axle.

As tests showed, these experimental models were still very far from perfect, despite their promise. In particular, an increase in the carrying capacity of vehicles required the use of more powerful engines, improvements to the rear suspension, rearrangement of the chassis, etc.

Over the following years, these models underwent many changes, but the fate of each of them was different. For example, the first batch of improved MAZ-516s rolled off the assembly line in 1969. From 1970 to 1981, production of the modernized MAZ-516A and 516B continued. MAZ-515 and 520 never entered mass production, but the steering concept of the latter was later used by designers when creating the MZKT-6515. The MAZ-514 was tested in 1969, but the power of the six-cylinder YaMZ-236 engine for the model that was supposed to work as part of a road train was not enough, so the first industrial batch with a 270-horsepower YaMZ-238E engine was released only in 1974.

Over the next 10 years, MAZ designers worked fruitfully to create powerful and multifunctional trucks, and by the beginning of the 90s, the company already had in stock several quite successful models of the new generation of heavy-duty vehicles. It was this fact that helped the automobile plant not only to more or less calmly endure the economic crisis caused by the collapse of the USSR, but also to continue the development and production of new cars, which were so needed at that time to maintain the competitiveness of MAZ.

Onboard MAZ-630305

One of these bright and fresh models was the powerful onboard three-axle MAZ-6303, which stood out for its original technical solution in the form of a 6x4 wheel arrangement. This car was originally created to meet European requirements, so it was, as they say, doomed to success. The new product turned out to be so successful that almost all subsequent three-axle heavy-duty trucks of the Minsk Automobile Plant had a certain “family connection” with the MAZ-6303.

On the basis of this model, such special vehicles as the MAZ-630168 (6x2), MAZ-6317 (6x6), the powerful MAZ-630326 timber carrier, a large tractor for working as part of a road train with a carrying capacity of up to 67 thousand kg and other versions were created.

Technical specifications

Below are the characteristics of the MAZ tractor of the 509 series:

width/height/length – 2.6/2.9/6/77 meters;
wheelbase (m) – 3.95;
curb weight (t) – 8.8;
ground clearance - 30 centimeters;
engine power – 200 horsepower with a volume of 11.15 liters;
maximum speed (km/h) – 65 with an average fuel consumption of 48 liters per hundred kilometers;
maximum lifting capacity (t) – 21.

MAZ timber trucks of this series were divided into three main modifications (509P, 509A, 509), the main differences between which were in the transmission unit, exterior and some technical details.

New models

In the early 90s, Belarusian developers put into production the more modern timber carrier MAZ-6317, which was produced in two interpretations (log carrier and pass trailer). This approach made it possible to unify components and assemblies for working with different types of forest.

Technical indicators of this model:

type of power plant – diesel;
drive formula – 6*6:
engine power – 420 horsepower;
gearbox – nine-speed manual;
speed limit – 80 kilometers per hour;
load capacity (t) – 1.34/2.91 (depending on modification);
length/width/height (m) – 1.03/2.55/4.0 or 7.82/2.5/3.52.

The next model, MAZ-6303, is a timber truck that is still in production. This log carrier is additionally equipped with a hydraulic manipulator and supports. Its technical indicators:

engine – diesel;
drive – 6*4;
power indicator - 400 horsepower;
load capacity – 15.8 tons;
Gearbox – 9 steps, manual;
maximum speed – 90 kilometers per hour;
dimensions (m) – 6.6/2.5/3.7 (length/width/height).

This machine is widely used due to the presence of service centers and the availability of parts throughout almost the entire former USSR.

MAZ-6303 cabin: overview of the workplace

MAZ 6303 trucks can be equipped with one of two types of cabins - small or large capacity. In the first option, a sleeping place is not provided, so cars with a small day cabin are usually used to transport goods over short distances.

Large cabins with two berths are equipped with vehicles designed for long-distance operation. Such “rooms” on wheels have all the conditions for complete rest for drivers during a multi-day journey.

Both cab options are of the cabover type, because located above the engine. Access to the engine is provided by a hydraulic cab tilt system.

The car's interior is quite spacious, but, unfortunately, it does not have an elegant interior, and in terms of ergonomics it leaves much to be desired. However, the MAZ 6303 cabin also has several important advantages that smooth out the unpleasant impression of the lack of comfort in it. These benefits can only be truly appreciated on the road.

For example, the cabin is characterized by excellent visibility from the front, rear and down from the right side, which allows the driver to feel confident when driving in busy city traffic, as well as when approaching the curb on the right. The manufacturer also took care of the emotional state of drivers - the car interior is almost completely free of vibrations and noise, which are the main irritating and tiring factors, especially on long trips.

The standard interior configuration includes two seats - driver and passenger. The driver's seat is sprung, with a pedal for height adjustment, equipped with seat belts. At the same time, a comfortable fit is provided not only to the driver, but also to the passenger, because his seat is equipped with air suspension. It is worth noting that not all trucks have this option.

As for the driving functions, changing gears, turning the steering wheel or pressing the pedals does not require any additional effort, so even during long journeys the driver will not feel physical fatigue in the limbs.

Some difficulties when driving a car may arise for drivers without experience with MAZ 6303 models due to the inconvenient gear shift pattern and the lack of its graphic display. It should be noted that this drawback significantly slows down the process of getting used to the car.

The car cabin is equipped with basic and autonomous heating systems, ensuring a comfortable temperature in the cabin even in the most severe frosts. But, unfortunately, extracting this very heat is a very troublesome matter.

Oddly enough, over the several decades of existence of the MAZ 6303 model, the designers never bothered to move the function of opening the heater tap into the cabin, and it is still located under the cabin, but only experienced drivers know this “secret”, and beginners will have to freeze for a long time until They will be looking for the treasured valve.

Of course, in this case there can be no talk of any convenience for the driver, because Instead of quickly warming up, he will have to go out into the cold and raise the cabin to start the heater.

The heater valve is located at the bottom of the cylinder block, in close proximity to the coolant drain valve.

You will also have to freeze your hands when replacing the air filter, because its cover is closed not with convenient latches, but with numerous studs and nuts.

The combination of such absurd shortcomings, of course, does not have the best effect on the image of the legendary MAZ 6303 model. Despite this, the truck complies with the requirements of the TIR system and continues to be very popular among large transport companies, various enterprises and among private carriers.

Timber truck with manipulator: description

The MAZ timber truck with a hydraulic manipulator is a representative of special equipment used in logging and timber transportation. High performance and efficiency indicators are ensured thanks to the CMU (universal crane-manipulator) with the ability to capture assortments. The characteristics of the trucks are not inferior to domestic and foreign analogues.

MAZ 6312A9 series timber trucks are used for transporting logs, boards and other wooden blanks and products. The truck is equipped with a YaMZ-65010 diesel power unit with turbocharging. The engine power is four hundred “horses”, it complies with the Euro-3 standard. The wheel formula of the car is 4*6, which ensures high cross-country ability on difficult ground. With a maximum load capacity of 2.32 tons, the maximum speed of the vehicle is 85 kilometers per hour. The weight of the car when fully loaded is almost three and a half tons.

Buy MAZ log trucks at a good price

The extensive product line of the Minsk Automobile Plant includes a whole series of machines designed for transporting timber or logs - log carriers.
The RUSBIZNESAVTO company offers to buy this special equipment on the most favorable terms. Features and main characteristics of MAZ log trucks with a manipulator

MAZ log carriers have a large carrying capacity - from 15 to 21 tons. Used for transporting timber over short and medium distances. The vehicles are perfectly adapted to Russian roads and have a reliable 6×6 or 6×4 wheel arrangement.
The machines are equipped with a reliable YaMZ engine with a power of 412–420 hp. The motors are durable and repairable.
For convenient and quick loading of timber, the equipment of MAZ log trucks includes hydraulic manipulators.
For safe transportation of timber there are 4–6 supports.
The large fuel tank of MAZ log trucks allows you to travel long distances without refueling.
The long platform of log carriers is suitable for transporting logs up to 8 meters long.
To increase the cargo volume, the vehicle can be equipped with a trailer.

In general, MAZ log trucks are distinguished by high build quality, good controllability and maneuverability. They have a reliable braking system with ABS. The vehicles are also equipped with a comfortable driver’s cabin (the configuration may include a sleeping place).

CALL US 8 (800) 55 104 88 or
ORDER A CALL

Peculiarities

A timber truck with a manipulator, manufactured on the basis of the MAZ-6303, has received a number of improvements and modifications. Among them the following aspects can be highlighted:

The chassis has been modernized;
reinforced subframe;
two pairs of bunks were installed to allow the assortment to be held and securely fixed;
a pair of winches installed;
a special barrier plate is equipped between the cabin and the platform;
possibility of installing several types of hydraulic manipulators (from SF-62 to SF-85ST).

New MAZ timber trucks prove that their use helps transport timber of various categories in extreme conditions. This is achieved thanks to the truck’s increased cross-country ability, its improved technical parameters, and compliance with all safety requirements.

Reviews from MAZ-6303 owners: advantages and disadvantages

Alexander Viktorovich, 47 years old, Kaluga I am a professional driver, I spent almost a quarter of a century behind the wheel. During this time I had to work on different machines, so I know their features first-hand. In 2010, I bought a brand new flatbed MAZ-6303 A8, and before that I drove an old ZIL. Of course, these trucks cannot be compared in any way. Although my “Mazurik” can no longer be called fresh, and some problems do occur, I am not going to change it, at least for now.

The main advantages of the MAZ include easy control, excellent cross-country ability, power and large load capacity. It rushes uphill even when fully loaded, like a young racer. The car’s modest “appetite” is also pleasing, which is very important at current fuel prices.

The biggest troubles I've had in the entire time I've had this truck have been the clutch and radiator failures - I had to replace both of them, but otherwise it's just little things that I'm fixing myself. Well, I also changed the tires several times. Spare parts are not a problem, their prices are normal, so you can work.

The only annoying thing is that rust is eating away at the cabin. After every winter you have to touch up the paint. Oh, and the starting heater was damaged and had to be replaced. But, as far as I know, this is a constant disease of 63 MAZs. Overall I'm happy with everything, the car is reliable

Yuri, 32 years old, Moscow

Our company recently bought a MAZ-6303 timber carrier, on which I now work. Before that, I was driving a KAMAZ, which was also not bad, but the MAZ, in my opinion, is better for transporting timber. The engine is powerful, turbocharged, 400 horses, confidently pulls the load both in a straight line and uphill. And the car itself is reliable, it has never let us down on the road.

Of course, you often have to tinker with the hardware, but so far there have been no serious breakdowns. I often travel to other regions and even if I spend several days behind the wheel, I practically don’t get tired, because this car is easy to drive, effortless. The situation inside the cabin is a little frustrating, but I plan to make it more cozy and comfortable over time. In general, it’s what you need for work. I recommend.

Reviews and prices

Reviews from owners and specialists confirm the reliability and efficiency of using specialized MAZ trucks for transporting timber. It is not for nothing that these cars have been in demand for several decades in the territories of the former socialist countries and abroad. Additionally, it is worth noting the variety of modifications of timber trucks, which makes it possible to optimally select equipment for performing a particular operation.

MAZ timber truck, the price of which on the secondary market starts from one million two hundred thousand rubles (series 6303 with a manipulator), occupies one of the leading places in popularity in this class. The final cost depends on the condition of the car, its modification and spent life. A new model of a timber truck from Belarusian manufacturers will cost an order of magnitude more, but is still cheaper than similar foreign equipment.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of timber trucks from the Minsk Automobile Plant include the following:

an excellent indicator of the cross-country ability of all modifications for transporting timber;
the ability to choose the optimal option among a variety of models;
high quality indicators combined with an adequate price;
unification of spare parts and assemblies;
a large assortment of used but fully functional cars;
continuous improvement of production and introduction of modern technologies;
availability of spare parts in abundance and extended service throughout the country.

The disadvantages include the fact that the level of comfort and additional equipment is not yet comparable with foreign analogues. However, the affordable price combined with reliability and ease of maintenance almost compensates for this aspect.