MMZ - trailer for a passenger car: technical characteristics, modifications, repairs

The MMZ trailer has been in serial production since 1972. The device is designed for transporting various types of cargo and tourist equipment. The base tractor for this unit is the VAZ-2101. Both vehicles have the same components: tires, shock absorbers, bearings. The MMZ trailer can be used in conjunction with other passenger cars of domestic and foreign production, which are equipped with a standard towing unit.

Device

The towbar under consideration includes the following parts in its design:

• Frame and drawbar.
• Awning with arches.
• Body.
• Chassis.
• Lock.
• Support stands.
• Electrical equipment.
• Alarm system.

The frame of the MMZ trailer is made of steel by welding. It consists of a pair of longitudinal beams and three transverse elements. The spars have a trapezoidal cross-section (50/32/25 mm) and are made of steel. A locking device is welded in the front part of the converging side members. In the middle there are brackets on which the suspension springs and hydraulic shock absorbers are mounted. The rear cross member is equipped with buffer and support strut mounts. In addition, holes are made in the frame for bolting the body.

Characteristics of MMZ trailers

The body part is made of steel by welding. The bottom and sides are made by stamping from sheet steel (0.7 mm). Wheel niches are located inside the body near the side walls. The floor is covered with a rubber corrugated cape. The upper frames of the sides are equipped with sockets for mounting awning arches, which are pipes of a certain diameter. The awning itself is made of tarpaulin, fixed to the arches using a special cord, which is threaded through eyelets located along the edges of the canvas.

The lacing is carried out between the eyelets and thrown onto the strapping hooks, which are welded to the sides. The chassis of the MMZ trailer consists of the following elements:

• Wheels with VAZ-2101 type tires.
• Tubular axle with axles welded at the edges.
• Transverse and longitudinal rods.
• Spring suspension mechanism.
• Telescopic type hydraulic shock absorbers.
• Shock absorber fixing brackets.
• Rubber buffers.
• Otboynikov.

Loading platform

The body is made of sheet steel, the platform is attached to the frame through beams with bolts and washers. The body floor is covered with rubber mats with a corrugated surface. The tailgate in the first series of MMZ-81021 was made in the form of a blank wall, later it was modified - a folding element appeared. Fixation and tension of the awning to the sides is provided by linen rope.

Trailer MMZ-81021 with awning

Equipment

The MMZ passenger trailer is equipped with three support legs. They are mounted on a platform to block the suspension springs. The electrical equipment of the device is of a single-wire type, powered by the vehicle's on-board voltage of 12 V. It also includes a pair of tail lights, a license plate light, and a set of wires with a plug.

The rear light elements are of a two-chamber type (in the upper compartment there is a single-filament turn signal lamp, and in the lower part there is an analogue with two threads, indicating the brake light and dimensions).

Peculiarities

The front side of the MMZ trailer is equipped with a pair of reflective reflectors of a round configuration and a white color scheme. At the rear there is a pair of red triangular reflectors. In 1986, the board began to be made collapsible, and new reflectors appeared. Improved variations received a rear-biased axle, smaller wings, and mudguards. Later they began to produce models without bumpers, instead of which there were simply two protrusions, options with updated optics and different combinations of reflectors. The frame number is located on the right under the folding part of the side.

Modification of MMZ trailer

Below is one way to modernize the device in question. The essence of tuning is to dismantle the body and replace all elements to the maximum. Initially, we install a new lock, then sandblast and paint the sides. The main process includes the following steps:

• Replacement of rear shock absorber rubber bands with bushings.
• If these elements are suitable for further use and do not show signs of deformation, it is better to leave them, especially if they were made during the Soviet Union.
• As spring mechanisms, you can install analogues from Oka or Zaporozhets (if a constant and maximum load is provided). In the second case, you will need to purchase spring ties.
• Parts from a VAZ-2101, Moskvich or Niva are suitable as rear shock absorbers.
• For fastening, use 12*60 mm bolts.
• The wooden cross members under the body can be replaced with a metal profile.

If the tires rub against the springs, use an additional spacer from the VAZ-2101 brake disc.

Purpose

The first serial trailer from MMZ was the immortal model 81021. It was created specifically for installation on VAZ cars.

Initially, the model was developed as a tow hitch for the VAZ 2101, that is, the Soviet Kopeyka. It is not surprising that the vehicles received similar shock absorbers, identical bearings and even identical wheels. In fact, all the components of the chassis for 81021 were already there. All that remains is to install them on the body and make some modifications. Thus, the plant came up with an ideal partner for Kopeyka, which the owners of these cars immediately took advantage of. They started buying 81021 very quickly and actively.

If we talk about the dimensions of the pioneer, they were 1850x1600 mm. This made it possible to transport all kinds of cargo, making the trailer universal and multifunctional. The design provided for a side with a height of 450 mm and an awning, which was installed on a metal frame. As a result, the total volume of the MMZ was about 1200 liters.

Soon trailers began to be adapted for use on vehicles of other smaller classes. They were intended for cars that were then produced by factories such as AZLK, VAZ and IZH.

Interestingly, the trailer from MMZ, intended for AZLK, received the same design elements as those used on the vehicle itself. For such vehicles, the load limit was set at 135 kilograms. It should also be noted that the GAZ plant produced models for middle-class cars. That is, MMZ made trailers for the then elite and for many inaccessible Volga. The load on the coupling device was a good 50 kilograms, and trailers were allowed to be operated at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour.

At one time, 81021 was recognized as a necessary and extremely useful device. This was due to the fact that the trailer could perform several important functions.

Now on Avito and other portals you can find used trailers from different manufacturers, or purchase a new vehicle from a huge assortment. Back then the choice was limited.

But in fact, people did not need a huge choice. They were quite satisfied with the opportunities that MMZ provided them with. After all, with the help of their trailers it was possible to:

• deliver industrial goods;
• transport food;
• transport agricultural products;
• deliver construction materials.

Due to its versatility, MMZ has solved a number of transportation problems. The awning protected from dust and precipitation, the spacious body made it possible to transport fairly large quantities.

Modernization

Trailers for passenger cars, the price of which starts at $200 (depending on the condition of the “cart”), can be improved in one more way. Stages of work:

• Replacement of the coupling device with a new version.
• The hubs and handbrake are installed.
• From an ordinary jack you can make an additional support on the drawbar.
• Next, the headlights are replaced (you can buy new elements or use existing headlights, for example from a VAZ-2108).
• The structure is sheathed with galvanization.
• Further modification of the MMZ trailer consists of restoring the suspension. To do this, we replace the hubs with plates from the VAZ-2108 (from a bent beam).
• The frame is strengthened.
• The structure is being painted.

Technical specifications

Performance characteristics of the tow hitch in question:

• Total weight – 300/450 kg.
• The mass of transported cargo is 135/285 kg.
• The maximum speed when coupled with a car is 80 km/h.
• Length/width/height – 2.6/1.6/1.02 m.
• Ground clearance – 25.8 cm.
• Wheel track – 1.34 m.
• Platform area – 2.12 sq.m.
• Dimensions of the internal part – 1./1.5/0.38 m.
• The connection is of the ball type.

Introduction

Trailer MZSA 817701 (MZSA 817702, MZSA 817703, MZSA 817710, MZSA 817711, MZSA 817712, MZSA 817715, MZSA 817716, MZSA 817717, MZSA 817730, MZSA 817731, M ZSA 817732) is manufactured in accordance with TU 4525-005-34595938-2006.
The trailer is designed for transporting various cargoes.

The weight of a trailer intended for towing must not exceed the technically permissible weight established by the manufacturer of the tractor and half the weight of the tractor in running order and, in all cases, 750 kg.

To tow a trailer, the tractor must be equipped with:

1. A ball-type coupling device corresponding to the tractor model and having a certificate of conformity obtained in the prescribed manner. The dimensions and location of the towing device must comply with the requirements of TROBCTS.
2. Elements for reliable fastening of safety chains.
3. Socket for connecting electrical equipment of the trailer.

The trailer is manufactured in version U1 in accordance with GOST 15150-69 and is designed for operation at ambient temperatures from minus 40°C to plus 40°C, with relative humidity up to 80% at plus 20°C and wind speeds of up to 15 m/s.

The design of the trailer allows it to be stored without a garage. The manufacturer is constantly working to improve the trailer, so some changes to the trailer components may not be reflected in this manual.

Recovery

Repairing an MMZ trailer can be done as follows (the original model was practically coming apart at the seams):

1. Resuscitation begins with careful straightening of the body and sealing all cracks by welding. Next, the diagonals are checked, the sides are pulled together with soft rolled wire and the corners are further strengthened. A couple more amplifiers are welded onto the bottom part. This operation is due to the fact that in the standard version the bottom is equipped with only one amplifier, which is not enough for full operation. As a result, the metal breaks and the bottom simply falls through.
2. You can use improvised means to weld a new body bottom as an additional layer on top of the main element. Several pieces of iron 3 mm thick are quite suitable for this purpose. To begin with, the segments are welded together and then with the main coating. For reliability, the entire structure is fixed with bolts and press washers.
3. We install reinforced springs.

After restoration, the MMZ-81024 trailer was subjected to increased loads (transportation of cement, sand, crushed stone). After 4 months of use - no complaints, even compared to the new model.

Negative reviews

The comment is given about the standard trailer MMZ-81021. Owners note the small body size of 180*160 mm, while inside there are huge niches for wheels. It is not very convenient to carry it, since only the middle part of the rear door opens. The ultimate dream is to transport 3-meter boards. There is also practically no place to place furniture, due to the same wheel arches.

The frame is weak and deforms even with a slight overload. The springs are also not very strong, and the short drawbar does not allow for normal backing. The result is an inconvenient design, suitable only for transporting fruits and vegetables.

Safety requirements and warnings

When operating a trailer, it is prohibited:

• transport people on a trailer;
• movement of a road train at a speed of more than 70 km/h on public roads and 90 km/h on highways;
• movement of a road train without connecting the electrical equipment of the trailer to the tractor;
• movement of a road train without reliable fastening of safety chains on the tractor.

In this case, the body of the coupling head, the parts of its attachment to the trailer drawbar or the ball end of the tractor coupling device and the parts of its attachment to the coupling device should not be used for attaching safety chains.

The safety chains are secured to the tractor by the driver of the tractor in accordance with the documentation for the tractor or towing device.

When securing, it is necessary to ensure that in the event of an emergency rupture of the main coupling, the safety chains prevent the drawbar from touching the ground and provide some residual control of the trailer;

• leave a road train or an uncoupled trailer on a slope unless wheel chocks are placed under the trailer wheels;
• movement of a road train without reliable fastening of a platform with a drawbar;
• movement of a road train with an open side/sides of a trailer or without sides;
• parking a trailer with an open tailgate/sides without a warning triangle displayed;
• transport loose cargo;
• load the trailer with cargo whose weight exceeds the value indicated in the table of this manual;

The manufacturer is not responsible for the safety and reliability of the trailer when third parties make changes to the trailer design.

Read news about the new Niva

• Duster all wheel drive
• How does the transfer case work on a Chevrolet Niva?
• Homemade wheels for an all-terrain vehicle: how to peel off tires, video
• How to properly rearrange wheels on front-wheel drive. How to properly swap tires on car wheels
• How Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive works
• All about the Valet button and how to disable it yourself on alarm systems of different brands
• A unique 1977 Niva went on sale - it was rated as a new Land Cruiser Prado - read in the News section in Avto.ru Magazine
• Services @ Niva 4×4

Competitors

In order to choose a good trailer for a passenger car, the price of which depends on many factors, you should pay special attention to the manufacturer. The durability and practicality of the device depend on the quality of the components and materials, as well as the quality of the device’s painting.

Towbars from the Moscow company MZSA have received good reviews. The model line includes products with aluminum or steel sides, additional protection, large caps, and enlarged sides. The manufacturer also offers specialized designs for transporting boats, boats and other small vehicles. A distinctive feature of this manufacturer is the powder coating method using metal and ceramic inclusions. This provides excellent reliability and safety.

Load correctly

In order to drive safely, you should know the rules for placing cargo in the tow hitch.

The load must be distributed evenly over the entire area. When the dimensions are large, it needs to be distributed between the axles or strictly above the axle (if the car has one axle).

Indeed, if the load is incorrectly installed on the front of the trailer, as a result of pressure on the rear of the car, the front wheels may partially lose traction with the road, and, conversely, when the load is shifted to the rear, the rear wheels of the car lose traction with the road surface.

Therefore, to avoid an emergency on the road, resorting to the laws of physics, the load must be secured strictly in the center of the trailer, thereby increasing the control of the vehicle.

Also read - Connecting a trailer socket and a tow bar for a car and truck, color scheme.

Other manufacturers

Among the leading trailer manufacturers are . The company specializes in the production of heavy products aimed at transporting yachts, boats, and large industrial equipment. Recently, the model range has been replenished with lightweight modifications that can be equipped with an awning for an MMZ trailer. In addition, the manufacturer claims that, upon customer request, it can supplement the unit with all possible additional structures.

Also popular on the trailed equipment market are models from the Ukrainian enterprise “Kremen” (Kremenchug). The products are distinguished by a high margin of safety, as they are made of high-quality metal, thickened profiles and are equipped with a reinforced frame. The disadvantages of these devices include their heavy weight, which makes the trailer not very convenient. It is worth noting that the range of this manufacturer is limited to single-axle modifications with an average load capacity. Nevertheless, the company remains among the leaders in the relevant market.

A little history

The author or creator of such a trailer is the Mytishchi Machine-Building Plant. Hence the name MMZ. This enterprise is an integral component of the association, which is widely known as Metrovagonmash. Even during the times of the Union, the plant produced an extensive range of products, among which there was a place for passenger trailers.

MMZ began producing trailers for passenger cars back in 1972, which was far away for many of you. This was due to the fact that the AvtoVAZ company actively began to fill the domestic market with its cars. You may be surprised, but today there are about 200 thousand still serviceable trailers produced by the Mytishchi plant.

It cannot be said that these trailed vehicles have an ideal body, unique technical characteristics or other undeniable advantages. No. It's just a good trailer of high quality, which was in its time. This allowed them to survive to this day.