KamAZ, which has proven itself with trucks, also produces buses and agricultural equipment. The start of production of agricultural machinery in Russia was facilitated by cooperation with the Italian holding company ARGO Tractors SPA. The first KAMAZ tractor, called T-215, rolled off the assembly line in 2008. During the first year of production, more than 200 units were produced. The following year, production of 4 more types of equipment began under license from McCormick. The Kama Tractor Plant does not produce mini tractors.
The history of the appearance of the KamAZ XTX-215 model on the agricultural machinery market
The Kama Tractor Plant was one of the large-scale projects of the mid-80s, which, thanks to “perestroika” and the collapse of the Soviet Union, was never fully implemented. However, in 2008, KamTZ received a “rebirth”: at the production facilities of KamAZ OJSC, in collaboration with the international machine-building holding ARGO Tractors SPA, the production of five models of McCormick tractors was launched.
They are named after the 19th century American inventor and entrepreneur, agricultural equipment manufacturer Cyrus McCormick. Since 1949, tractors under the McCormick brand have been produced by a plant in Doncaster, UK. Since 1999, this company and the McCormick trademark have been owned by ARGO Tractors SPA, an international concern headquartered in Italy. The annual turnover of this holding is over 900 million euros. Every year ARGO Tractors SPA produces and sells about 25,000 tractors and 800 combines.
In Naberezhnye Chelny, the production of advanced and modern tractors in all respects has been launched - powerful, productive, and at the same time having economical engines that meet Euro-3 standards. The start was successful; it was planned to increase the production volume of five models of Kama McCormicks from one hundred to two hundred to a thousand units per year.
However, the onset of the economic crisis, the collapse of the ruble, the sharp rise in prices of imported components (of which KamAZ XTX-215 is almost one hundred percent), and, accordingly, the prices for the tractor itself, made adjustments to these plans. Today, the Kama Tractor Plant has left three models in its product line, among them the KamAZ XTX-215, renamed KamTZ TTX-215.
Price and owner reviews
The model range of agricultural products in Naberezhnye Chelny was reduced to 3 models: TTX-185, TTX-215 and TTX-230. The first 2 models are a renamed version of similar XTX series tractors, and the 230 replaced the T-215. It has an uprated IVECO engine with 228 hp. and 950 Nm of torque. The cost of tractors of the existing KAMAZ model range varies from 6 to 8.5 million rubles.
On the territory of the plant there is a large amount of mothballed equipment of early models, which can be purchased at a discount of several million rubles.
Andrey, Altai Territory: “For 2 years now we have been working on the XTX-215 with the AGRATOR and KTS 10 seeding complex. It works 2 times faster and more economically than the T-4. Because The technology is comfortable, you can work throughout the day without feeling tired. I am satisfied and recommend purchasing."
Yuri, Krasnodar: “KAMAZ tractors have the best price-quality ratio. Over 6 years of year-round operation, more than 5,000 hours have been worked without breakdowns. It copes with a cultivation area of 530 hectares without any effort.”
Alexander, Krasnoarmeysk: “We have been operating the XTX-185 since 2008. The equipment is reliable and powerful. In 2022, the gearbox and injectors were replaced. The tractor has fulfilled its stated service life with reserve. There are plans to purchase TTX-185 in the future.”
Purpose on the farm; scope of application of KamAZ XTX-215
The middle tractor of the third traction class "KAMAZ XTX-215" is designed for a full range of agricultural work, primarily in soil cultivation and preparation. His “element” is voluminous work on a large scale. Accordingly, over large areas. Where this one tractor, thanks to a significant gain in productivity and speed of land cultivation, is actually capable of replacing several classic tractors from previous years of development.
Therefore, KamAZ XTX-215 is designed for use in large peasant farms with large acreage. During sowing and harvesting campaigns, it is very important to process these areas in the shortest possible time. There, KamAZ XTX-215 will really “give a hundred points ahead” to its competitors in terms of profitability. Due to the combination of high productivity and speed of work with economical consumption of diesel fuel and oil.
Efficiency is promoted not only by the modern Iveco diesel engines with which this model is equipped, but also by the Power Management system with which the KamAZ McCormick is equipped. It is responsible for maintaining a constant speed during operations that require the participation of the PTO - power take-off shaft. It is also impossible not to mention the huge range of attachments, which gives the tractor truly unsurpassed versatility in solving any tillage and transport tasks.
Advantages and disadvantages
Thanks to the experience gained from representatives of the McCormick company, KamTZ tractors have the highest performance indicator among domestic agricultural machinery, and their versatility allows the use of any attachment.
Economical and reliable IVECO and Perkins power units with XtraSpeed transmission provide high productivity without equipment downtime, comparable to European counterparts.
KamTZ equipment has the highest load capacity in its class.
KAMAZ tractors are equipped with a comfortable cabin with a wide seat on air suspension, a digital panel and air conditioning.
The disadvantages of the products of the Kama Tractor Plant include the high initial price, several times higher than the cost of domestic analogues. But thanks to profitability and European quality, purchasing KamTZ equipment is more economically profitable.
Tractor Kamaz XTX 215: technical characteristics
When developing the McCormick XTX-215 tractor, in accordance with the “dictations of the times,” the main attention was paid to creating a productive, but at the same time, economical agricultural machine. For this purpose, its design includes a variety of devices and mechanisms that ensure rational consumption of forces, and, consequently, consumption of fuels and lubricants.
For example, the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor is equipped with a piston pump with a performance control system. This makes it possible to provide the working body with exactly the power it needs at the moment, no more, no less, without “overkill.” This system operates due to the presence of sensors in the control valves, which inform the pump about the required flow force. Thus, the energy of the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor is not wasted. The use of the Power Management system also provides a noticeable gain in productivity and efficiency.
Engine "KAMAZ XTX-215": "Iveco BetaPower"
The power unit of the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor is Italian, manufactured. This is a six-cylinder four-stroke engine with a displacement of 6.7 liters, equipped with a double turbocharger and an air intercooling system. "Iveco BetaPower" - high-torque motors with extraordinary power, efficiency and autonomy.
On KamAZ XTX-215 tractors, the engine is installed in a special cast frame made of high-strength steel. The engine in the KamAZ McCormick is not a supporting structure, as a result of which it is not subject to torsional and bending stress. The engine is mounted on the chassis as follows: the power unit is mounted on a rubber cushion and secured at four points. Thus, the Iveco BetaPower engine carries out natural movements, which allows it to absorb any shock loads coming from the front axle.
The main technical characteristics of the Iveco BetaPower engine in numbers are as follows:
- Maximum power: 231 horsepower, or 157 kilowatts.
- Engine power at rated speed: 193 horsepower, or 142 kilowatts.
- Rated motor shaft speed: 2200 rpm (ISO).
- Engine displacement: 6.7 liters.
- Engine bore/stroke: 102mm/120mm.
- Maximum engine torque: 900 Nm.
- Motor torque reserve: 35 percent.
- Engine speed range at constant power: 1900-2200 rpm.
- Engine speed range at maximum torque (with Power Management system): 1200-1750 rpm.
- Specific fuel consumption: 203 g/kWh.
- Oil change interval: 500 hours.
This engine model is also characterized by optimal specific fuel consumption; much lower noise level in the operator’s working area compared to Rosstandart, switchable under load with an electrically-hydraulic controlled gearbox, allowing no loss of power at all. The fuel system of the Iveco BetaPower engine complies with the Euro-3 standard. The fuel tank capacity of the KamAZ XTX-215 is 350 liters.
Transmission "KAMAZ XTX-215"
Gear shifting is carried out by the XtraSpeed high-speed transmission. It is capable of transferring from gear to gear in both normal and optimized electronic modes. This transmission model provides for 8 main speeds under load. The general range of speeds that the main ones support is 32 forward and 24 reverse gears.
In addition, there is an option for the “XtraSpeed” high-speed transmission with a creeper - this gives the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor “another 16 additional forward and reverse speeds. (48 – forward and 40 – backward). The process of changing direction (reverse) is carried out by means of a servo drive with a neutral. The type of rear axle differential locking mechanism is in the form of a multi-disc clutch in an oil bath.
Each gear provides a 17 percent increase over the previous one and provides the right speed range for any type of work. Multi-disc clutches are used to change 8 speeds under load. The four ranges are controlled either by a manual shift lever or by hydraulic cylinders. To reduce noise and enhance tooth contact, all gears are made in a helical design. Pressure lubrication minimizes power loss and ensures oil circulation under all conditions. The oil change interval in the XtraSpeed transmission system is 1000 hours.
Axles and suspension of the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor
The front axle is equipped with electronically controlled hydraulic suspensions and an electro-hydraulic differential lock. The maximum rotation angle is 55 degrees. The uniqueness of the advanced front axle system "XTX-215" is that it acts on the wheel, which is affected by changes in the soil (or any obstacles), or when the load on the axle is lost. And the wheels are constantly in contact with the surface of the earth.
The cross-axle differential of the rear (drive) axle has a forced locking mechanism, activated from the operator’s workplace. The limited slip front axle design engages gradually and adjusts the torque supplied to the front wheels according to their grip on the road surface. The internal ball cam design accomplishes this task effectively by locking the clutch pack with large chrome plated bearings.
The front axle ratio is 1.328:1. The camber angle of the wheels is within six degrees. The maximum wheel rotation angle is 55 degrees; and the maximum turning radius is 5.4 m.
PTO (Power take-off shaft)
This is a multifunctional three-speed PTO (540E/1000 or 540/1000) with electro-hydraulic control, made specifically for a high-performance tractor. The power take-off drive and the entire output system are designed to work with any additional equipment that is available on the market today. The PTO gear ratio exactly matches the engine performance characteristics.
The power take-off shaft on the KamAZ XTX-215 has six splines on one side and twenty-one on the other, which simplifies its connection with additional equipment. The shaft drive is completely sealed to prevent oil loss when it is removed and reinstalled. A simple retaining ring is used to secure the PTO.
Towbar, hydraulics and brake system
The hydraulic system pump on the XTX-215 is an axial piston pump (PFC), closed type, with flow control. The pump capacity is 163 liters per minute. The category of the hydraulic system is III, its maximum load capacity is 10950 kg. Double-acting hydraulic cylinders guarantee freedom of movement of the hitch in various directions. All types of attachments can be raised above the ground to the required position for safe transportation. The hitch arms have Cat-II/N spacing between the hook ends (ISO standard) and the hook ends have Cat-III size outer balls.
The three-point hitch and remote valves can actually be used simultaneously. This promotes complete control over the attachment. All valves are installed vertically at the rear of the tractor. This simplifies the process of connecting hoses and reduces the number of required pipelines. The system supplies an average of 106 liters per minute to remote equipment, which makes it possible to successfully solve the problem of performing the necessary hydraulic functions of the engine while simultaneously operating remote valves.
The brake system on the KamAZ XTX-215 tractors is equipped with multi-disc brake mechanisms that operate with immersion in oil. This eliminates the need to use an automatic dual clutch when braking to ensure immediate transfer of braking force. Even when changing direction. A reliable and powerful parking brake provides an impeccable level of safety.
The KamAZ XTX-215 is characterized by more efficient braking when driving with a trailer, and a longer service life. Overall, the brakes are extremely reliable and durable. They do not require special maintenance and ensure high safety in all operating conditions.
KAMAZ CX-105
CX-105 belongs to the group of small tractors and corresponds to the second traction class. It is a copy of the economical and reliable McCormick 105. The Kama tractor has a low cost and is capable of cultivating medium-sized plots of land, performing the work of various agricultural machinery. Therefore, it is in demand among private farmers.
Technical characteristics of CX-105
The Perkins diesel engine has a volume of 4.4 liters. Thanks to turbocharging, it develops 392 Nm of torque. Perkins Engines Company Limited is a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. ICE 1104S-44T was developed using patented Caterpillar technologies, which made it possible to create a powerful and reliable engine with low fuel consumption. The internal combustion engine has a cast block with a closed lubrication system, and the fuel is supplied through a common rail system.
Due to the economic crisis, KamTZ began installing a cheaper IVECO BetaPower motor with a Power Management system. The Italian internal combustion engine develops a power of 98 hp and a torque reserve of 25%. Both engines comply with EC Stage 2 environmental standards.
The XtraSpeed transmission provides 24 forward and 24 reverse gears (36 / 36 with creeper). The direction is selected using a servo drive with neutral gear. The front axle of the Carraro-707S4 4WD provides high traction capacity of the tractor and a turning radius of 4.2 m.
The CX-105 has a PTO similar to the XTX-215 (540/1000 rpm). The tractor is equipped with a hydraulic system (PFC) of the third category, the maximum pressure of which is 54 l/min. This allows the use of equipment weighing 3875 kg.
A distinctive feature of the KAMAZ SMAH-85 is a derated engine, IVECO or Perkins, developing a power of 81-84 hp. and 368 Nm with a margin of 25-30%. The tractor has a simplified XtraSpeed gearbox with 12 forward and 12 reverse gears. With a creeper, another 12 forward speeds are added.
The operating weight of SMAX-85 is 3300 kg, and the permissible load on the front/rear axles is 4020/4860 kg. The downside of this model is the category 2 hydraulic system with a load capacity of 2600 kg.
Cabin of the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor
The cabin provides maximum visibility from the operator's workplace in all directions. Excellent rear visibility makes maneuvering much easier and safer. Manufacturers are proud of the unsurpassed level of cabin noise insulation (the noise level reaches no more than 71 decibels, and this is quieter than any other modern tractor).
In addition to providing unrestricted visibility to the outside, the cabin has good visibility of all instruments and controls. These instruments are simple and easy to recognize: all controls are conveniently located to the right of the driver, are intuitively color-coded and grouped by function.
Practicality and comfort are thought out to the smallest detail: wide and stable steps, a comfortable spring-loaded seat with a wide cushion and air suspension. Ventilation has double dust protection; The heater is located in the cabin roof. The fuel tank is located to the left of the operator's platform, making it easy to fill from the ground due to its convenient location. Refilling time is minimal, since the filling speed is 60 l/min.
The anti-glare display is distinguished by image clarity and provides good readability of information in any conditions. It provides the driver with real-time data on the operating parameters of the tractor (travel speed, PTO speed, number of operating hours, total mileage, etc.).
Purpose
KamAZ XTX 215 became one of the most successful products of cooperation between the Kama Tractor Plant and ARGO Tractors SPA. The model was distinguished by economical fuel consumption even under heavy loads and high performance. The equipment was adapted for use in harsh Russian conditions.
KamAZ XTX 215 was launched into mass production in 2009; later the tractor was renamed KamTZ XTX 215. The model was intended for the domestic market, but large quantities were also supplied to England and Italy.
Tractor Kamaz XTX 215: reviews
Reviews about the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor often revolve around its, to put it mildly, not very cheap cost. However, besides price, there are also such concepts as economic efficiency and profitability. Due to its fuel efficiency and excellent performance indicators, KamAZ XTX-215 is considered the best in its class among tractors available on the domestic market.
When combined with a very wide range of different machines and mechanisms, the tractor is capable of performing work that would require the efforts of several highly specialized types of agricultural machinery. This eliminates the need to keep a large number of tractors, thereby saving money previously spent on fuel and lubricants, as well as on maintenance and repairs. This is noted by all owners of KamAZ XTX-215 tractors.
The peasants appreciated the versatility of this powerful technology. In particular, the KamAZ XTX-215 can not only plow five or six furrow plows in the entire range of conditions (in sandstones, on loams, on chernozems). But it can also be used in the cultivation of row crops such as potatoes, beets, corn, sunflowers, which do not require constant cultivation of inter-row spaces. At the same time, the design allows you to change the overall track width of the tractor to process crops with different row spacings.
Disadvantages include a poorly developed dealer network, high cost and lack of spare parts. These are truly significant problems that hinder the promotion of McCormick/KamAZ/KamTZ tractors on the Russian market.
Features and Benefits
The KamAZ XTX-215 tractor is characterized by the following technical features:
— CARRARO front axle with electronically controlled suspension.
— Possibility of forced locking of the rear axle differential from the operator’s cab.
— Increased productivity achieved through rational power distribution.
— Control sensors that regulate hydraulic fluid pressure.
— Intelligent transmission system.
— Extended replacement intervals for lubricating fluids.
Thanks to its functionality, the KamAZ XTX-215 tractor is considered the best in its class and has no analogues among domestic and Western-made equipment.
