Engine 53 model ZMZ: characteristics, malfunctions and tuning

• Making a motor
• Description of the GAZ-53 engine
• Engine GAZ 53 technical characteristics
• Gas 53 engine maintenance
• Modification of the Gas 53 engine

It is not surprising that the products produced on the conveyor belt of the Gorky plant are known to every resident of our region, and the GAZ 53 engine personifies the era of traction devices used in freight transport. Cars of this class were considered the “backbone” of the country’s vehicle fleet, traveling around the remote nooks and crannies of the homeland, the products “faithfully” fulfilled the tasks assigned to them.

Mass production of the power plant started in 1964; subsequently, the engine received the same name as the machine. The engine is equipped with eight cylinders with a “V” layout, in comparison with competitors, it is devoid of a number of shortcomings, which influenced the further fate of the unit. The device is reliable, durable, with an increased power reserve; it is no coincidence that the motor lasted on the market for more than thirty years (until 1993). Even today, some of the products continue to be used, and the plant produces components, keeping the device in operation.

GAZ-53:

Tuning options

In order to give a more attractive look and improve the performance of the GAZ-53 engine, the following types of tuning are practiced:

GAZ-3309 gearbox - diagram

• A complete replacement of the engine involves the installation of a diesel, more powerful engine. At the same time, fuel consumption is reduced and the service life is increased to 400 thousand km. And also servicing the motor will not be difficult.
• The fasteners are welded, the fuel tank, electrical wiring, exhaust system are changed, and the driveshaft is remade.
• Updating the cabin on a GAZ-53 car involves installing a central locking and alarm system.
• Replacement of the rear axle from GAZ-3307. This is characterized by a particularly robust suspension and a self-locking rear axle.
• Transmission upgrade - it is recommended to replace the gearbox from the GAZ-3309.

Making a motor

The origins of the GAZ-53 engine began in 1959. During this period, work began on calculating the unit that would replace the GAZ-51. The latter was very outdated at that time. In addition, the valves located at the bottom did not allow the engine to realize its potential; tuning and repair were complicated by design flaws. The cast iron from which the load-bearing elements were cast made the product clumsy and increased its weight. The prerequisites for an imminent design change are obvious and the work was urgent. The day before, the designers of the engine plant mastered the aluminum casting method, then this was considered a breakthrough and made it possible to apply the technology to a new product.

The first engine installed on the GAZ-53 car was a unit labeled “511”, this happened in 1961. Subsequently, more than one experimental engine model was installed on the car, but the units could not take root. Thus, a striking example of “engineering thought” is the GAZ-53F engine with pre-chamber ignition, other models: GAZ-53A (12). A number of modifications have been created that have not found mass application, but are popular among those who like to tune the GAZ 53 engine. In addition, there are engines whose use goes beyond the scope of GAZ products. For example, 53 is found on cars: UAZ and Gazelle. The year 1993 was the final stage for the engine, since the brand ceased to be produced. Nevertheless, the plant operates a workshop that produces spare parts for engines that have not ceased operation.

Design

It is worth noting that many trucks were equipped with Gas 53 engines, which is very good. They had high efficiency and good technical potential. It is based on a simple carburetor running on gasoline fuel.

A small feature is the V-shaped arrangement of the cylinders. That is, they are located directly in the engine at a slight angle, which is very interesting. This stroke allows you to increase power and get good torque. As for the valves, they are located at the top.

The company's designers also used completely new cylinder heads with a high turbulence chamber and a screw exhaust valve. Thanks to this, Gas 53 engines received high efficiency and compression.

Also, do not forget that the power unit is equipped with a special exhaust gas recirculation system. This move will allow several times to reduce the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere.

The engine also has a housing for a manual gearbox.

From the technical characteristics it is clear that as standard the driver will be able to receive a combined lubrication system:

• by spraying;
• under high pressure.

This move will increase the performance of parts and provide them with high-quality lubrication.

If we talk about the cooling system, then everything is very good. The fact is that the designers used a liquid system. It circulates a special fluid throughout all vehicle systems. Due to this, you will be able to move not only in warm weather, but also in very hot weather.

Modifications

The variety of modifications of the GAZ-53 engine does not differ; the basis is the ZMZ-53 with some improvement in operating life and service. Some types of engine modifications can be distinguished:

The remaining engine models (5233, 5234) did not gain popularity among consumers, being installed only on PAZ and, to a lesser extent, on GAZ.

Service

The internal combustion power unit has a fairly good working life and endurance. Due to this, the driver can drive his car for several years and not think about repairs or replacement of parts.

If you want to get an even larger resource, then you need to carry out all kinds of maintenance. This will not only maintain the technical characteristics of the power unit, but will also allow you to forget about financial costs:

1. It is necessary to change the engine oil regularly, usually every 6 thousand kilometers traveled. Experts recommend using exclusively mineral type or semi-synthetics. The fact is that such oils are suitable for all Volgas and UAZs;
2. It is also necessary to periodically tighten the cylinder head and the intake manifold mountings, the so-called spider. Experts recommend performing this procedure every 1000 - 2000 kilometers. If you have replaced the cylinder head gaskets or made repairs, immediately tighten all the bolts and belts. In other cases, the check is carried out every 30 thousand kilometers. I would also like to note that tightening is carried out exclusively on a cold engine;
3. Check the water and coolant levels. This process is recommended to be done every day, especially in the summer. After all, if you don’t do this, problems may arise in the form of overheating of the power unit. All this will require a lot of money, which is very bad. This also applies to those who have a Gas 53 engine in a UAZ. The fact is that in this case the cooling system is a sore spot;
4. Don't forget about adjusting the valves. Not only the performance of the engine, but also the amount of compression depends on this. It is worth noting that a high-quality gas distribution system does not require daily maintenance. As a rule, adjustment is carried out after replacing the cylinder head gaskets and when an unpleasant knocking noise occurs;
5. Next, you should check the oil level in the sump of the internal combustion engine. This applies to drivers on the Volga and UAZ. Checking is necessary to ensure that all mechanisms receive their portion of high-quality oil and do not fail. If the level is insufficient, be sure to add engine oil. Otherwise the engine will fail. It is also necessary to check devices and sensors. They must show real numbers and not deviate;
6. An external inspection of the car is also important. During this action, an oil leak may be detected. Experts say that leakage is the main problem of the ZMZ 53 engine.

If you want your vehicle to last for a long time, then carry out diagnostics and maintenance. It is necessary to immediately eliminate problems and all kinds of breakdowns.

It is also necessary to disassemble the power unit to get to the very heart. Assembly of the Gas 53 engine is carried out using a set of keys and special experience.

To change the oil, you must perform the following operations:

• Unscrew the neck cap;
• Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain out;
• Screw the plug back;
• You need to be very careful while draining. The fact is that the oil is very hot and can burn the skin;
• Disconnect the filter and replace it with a new one;
• Fill some oil into the filter cavity;
• Fill with high-quality motor oil to the required level;
• Start the power unit and let it run for a while. This is necessary to ensure that the oil reaches all mechanisms;
• Check for leaks and oil level. If necessary, you can top it up.

Passenger engines marked V8 from ZMZ

The ZMZ V8 passenger engine was installed only on Chaika cars marked GAZ-13 and GAZ 14. Increased technical characteristics allowed the vehicle to accelerate quickly.

The only drawbacks of these power units are increased fuel consumption.

Technical characteristics of ZMZ 13:

Technical characteristics of ZMZ 13D:

Technical characteristics of ZMZ 14:

The only difference between the engines is the fuel used and the amount of horsepower.

Possible faults

Common breakdowns of the GAZ 53 that occur during the operation of the vehicle include:

1. Increased fuel consumption. Basically, the problem occurs due to the fact that oil begins to leak through element connections or seals.
2. Knock during operation of the connecting rod bearing. The cause of the breakdown is insufficient oil level or wear of parts.
3. Piston knock. The main reason is the breakdown of the skirt and partition of the mechanism. Also, a knock may occur due to the fact that the bottom is burned out.
4. Burnout of gaskets. A dangerous situation indicates that parts have overheated.
5. Exhaust valve burnout. Occurs due to the use of low quality gasoline.

Any breakdown requires repair or replacement. Ignoring the situation can lead to failure of the mechanism, system or engine as a whole.