MAZ-541 - the largest white, airfield aircraft tractor - truck

Author: Mithun Chakrabortenkov

24 November 2016 19:36

Tags: MAZ-541 USSR airfield tractor history facts  

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MAZ-541 is an airfield tractor, the only one of its kind, which was built in a sedan body. That is, it had a full-fledged interior with two rows of seats, a huge hood, under which was hidden a powerful power plant and two (!) steering wheels.

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The MAZ-541 was designed to meet international flights arriving at the main air gate of the Soviet Union - Sheremetyevo. The gigantic tractor had to walk beautifully against the backdrop of the modern “glass” pavilion and from the first seconds convince the guests of the country that everything was serious in the USSR. It is not known why the developers of the giant car chose to make it in exactly this form factor, but the MAZ-541 coped with the task of moving huge airliners wonderfully, thanks to a tank diesel engine and a weight of almost 30 tons.

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MAZ-541 - the largest and most unusual Soviet sedan-tractor

In Soviet times, there were quite a lot of interesting car models that even experienced motorists did not know about.
One of these special models is a unique airfield tractor called MAZ-541. This giant was created by order of Aeroflot in 1956 in Minsk. The purpose of the vehicle is to tow aircraft weighing up to 85 tons (Tu-104, Tu-114 and Il-18). The overall dimensions of the 28-ton Soviet MAZ-541 were 7797 mm in length and 3400 mm in width. Under the hood of the giant was installed a 500-horsepower engine from the tank - a 12-cylinder diesel V-2 with a volume of 38.8 liters, which was once equipped with the T-34 tank.

The car was also equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission with three forward speeds and two reverse speeds. The maximum speed of this giant machine was 30 km/h. Fuel consumption is 120 liters per 100 km.

The wheels of the car deserve special attention. They were different. The designers installed wheels from the YAZ-214 truck at the front, and wheels from the MAZ-525 mining dump truck at the rear. This was done taking into account the fact that the main load fell on the rear of the car.

The MAZ-541 body was painted in two colors. The cars had dual head optics, a chrome radiator grille, two steering wheels, duplicated controls and two seats. This car could be seen at airfields until 1970. But with the advent of the Tu-154 and Il-62 aircraft, a more powerful tractor was required.

In total, they planned to produce 12 of these cars, but only three copies of the MAZ-541 were produced. It is unknown what happened to the cars after they were written off. But the MAZ-541 airport dweller went down in history not only as the largest and heaviest, but also as the most unusual sedan in the world.

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Belarusian heroes: MAZ army heavy trucks

60 years ago, just in time for the anniversary of the revolution, a car appeared in the bowels of the Minsk Automobile Plant, which laid the foundation for a whole family of heavy “heroes”, and subsequently a separate brand with the same name. The main purpose of these vehicles was and remains military.

Anton Mikhailov
As you guessed, we are talking about the MZKT brand, better known under the trade name “Volat” (“hero” in Belarusian). Its history begins with a special design bureau created at MAZ. The Minsk Automobile Plant began with the production of two-axle MAZ-200 vehicles developed at YAZ and was not distinguished by a special design school. However, it was there that, by decision of the Soviet government, SKB-1 was created, the main focus of which was the design of heavy wheeled military equipment. Its success was largely determined by the personality of the leader - he was the talented engineer Boris Lvovich Shaposhnik, who had previously worked as the chief designer at AMO/ZiS and UAZ.

FIRST BORN

The first-born of SKB, however, was not a truck, but a MAZ-528 (4x4) tractor, which later turned into a single-axle MAZ-529. With its own weight of 9 tons, it could tow a 25-ton trailer. Of course, the military immediately began to use it.

The very first product of SKB-1 was the experimental tractor-pusher MAZ-528

In 1956, a prototype of the heavy four-axle tractor MAZ-535 appeared, which laid the foundation for all subsequent trucks. At that time it was an unheard of advanced machine. Much was used for the first time in domestic practice: hydromechanical transmission, semi-automatic gear shifting without interruption of power flow, original frame design with Z-shaped side members, torsion bar suspension, differential power drive system, power steering.

The nine-meter long vehicle with a total weight of 31.5 tons was equipped with a D12 tank diesel engine with a power of 375 hp. s., installed behind the four-seater cabin. The technical requirements drawn up by the military were very high: ground clearance - 500 mm, fording depth - up to 1.3 m, climbability - up to 30 degrees, ambient temperature from −50 to +50 ° C.

The MAZ-535 stood out with a third headlight - it was infrared illumination for the operation of a night vision device

After extensive testing, the MAZ-535A (ballast tractor) and MAZ-535V (truck tractor) went into production and were widely used by the military. For the first time, civilians were able to see these products at military parades in Moscow.

In connection with the advent of a more powerful D12-525 engine, the car was improved, and soon a strengthened version of the MAZ-537 appeared. It was unified in many respects with its predecessor, but had greater engine power (525 hp) and, therefore, a reinforced frame and braking system.

The heavy wheeled evacuation tractor (KET-T) on the MAZ-537 chassis of late production still serves in the army

The vehicles were produced in Minsk until 1964, when their production was transferred to the Kurgan Wheel Tractor Plant (KZKT), where their production continued until 1989 (!). In the army, these vehicles were equipped with dozens of superstructures depending on their purpose; in addition, they were supplied to the national economy in small quantities for transporting particularly heavy loads. It should be noted that these vehicles came with a 10-year warranty - unheard of for trucks of that era.

"HURRICANE"

The next epoch-making machine owes its appearance to the rocket scientists who in 1960 created the first guided solid-fuel operational-tactical missile "Temp". Especially for it, SKB-1 quickly developed a carrier chassis, since the advantage of a wheeled chassis over a tracked one was proven. And the famous MAZ-543 was born, which received the unofficial nickname “Hurricane”.

It was an evolutionary successor to the previous series - the fundamental design and a number of units were preserved. But its technical characteristics - speed, dynamics, maneuverability - were higher than those of its predecessor.

The most famous MAZ-543, carrier of the R-17 missile, known in the world as Scud-B

The updated D12A-525 engine now had a direct injection system, a dual starting system, and a pre-heater. Fuel consumption was 39 liters per 100 km, power remained the same - 525 hp. With.

The hydromechanical drive consisted of an automated four-speed planetary gearbox and a single-stage torque converter, transmitting torque to all eight wheels.

But the main feature that gave the car such a recognizable appearance was the unique layout of the cabin, or rather, cabins. With the classic layout, the missile launcher located at the rear noticeably increased the height and center of mass of the vehicle. In this regard, the designers used an ingenious solution - to use two cabins with free space between them. They were made from heavy-duty fiberglass with polyester resin (this was in 1962!). The sound insulation is also impressive - the noise in the cabin did not exceed 85 dB; a good indicator even for modern trucks.

Its descendant under the symbol MAZ-7313 in the role of towing indivisible cargo for the national economy

The total weight was 39 tons, ground clearance 440 mm. With dimensions of 11.5x3x2.9 m, the MAZ-543 had a maximum speed of 60 km/h.

The Hurricane series consisted of three generations and an endless number of modifications, both military and civilian. This is the original MAZ 543 (g/c 19.1 t), MAZ 543A (g/c 19.4–22.2 t), MAZ 543M (g/c 22.2 t, without right cab), MAZ 543P and many other. More than six dozen military superstructures were mounted on these chassis, including the Scud tactical missile, the S-300 anti-aircraft missile system, the Smerch multiple launch rocket system, the Bereg artillery complex and the Rubezh anti-ship missile system. The family is currently produced to order.

MULTIPEDS

In subsequent years, the special bureau continued to develop special chassis that had no analogues in the world, which received the general name of mobile ground-based missile systems. The first was the five-axle MAZ-547 conveyor, which in the process became the six-axle MAZ-547A. Many new components were developed for the MAZ-547; it received a more powerful engine (680–710 hp), a reinforced hydraulic transmission and a chassis with air-hydraulic suspension on wishbones with hydraulic balancers. The increased axle load reached 15 tons.

The 547 family was an enlarged 6-axle version of the Hurricanes.

But, since the type of missiles based on these chassis was destroyed under the SALT-2 treaty, their production was stopped, and attempts to adapt them for civilian needs were unsuccessful. But these vehicles formed the basis of the following families that are still used by the Russian army to this day.

The most secret prototype of military vehicles, MAZ-7904, existed in a single copy

When developing the first seven-axle chassis MAZ7912 for the Topol missile, it was necessary to solve problems previously unknown even in theory. In the early 1980s, a modified MAZ-7917 chassis (14x12) appeared for the same purposes. It was equipped with a V-58-7 (V12) diesel engine with a power of 710 hp. With. In 1995, a modern eight-axle transporter of ballistic missiles "Topol-M" MZKT-79221 appeared, unified with its predecessors.

The curb weight of the vehicle is 44 tons, the load capacity is 80 tons, the power of the YaMZ-847 engine is 800 hp. s., maximum speed 45 km/h, range 400 km.

The record of the world's most multi-axle chassis MAZ-7907 has not yet been repeated by anyone

Finally, we should remember two cars that stood apart and did not go into production. However, they became a kind of record in the creation of multi-axle oversized chassis, unsurpassed anywhere in the world.

15T316 - technical closure column support unit

The first of them, MAZ-7904, was manufactured in the strictest secrecy in 1982. Its purpose is still classified; it is only known that it was sent to Baikonur for testing. All its characteristics are striking: length - 32.2 m, width - 6.8 m, total weight - 360 tons.

Two other twelve-axle all-wheel drive (!) MAZ-7907 chassis were manufactured in 1985 to transport the then-designed 100-ton “Molodets” rocket. They had a unique design: a gas turbine engine with a power of 1250 hp. With. aggregated with an alternating current generator. 24 individual air-oil-cooled synchronous AC motors drove each of the wheels. However, the ensuing peaceful detente led to the fact that the machines were never used for their intended purpose.

The latest generation of missile carriers, MZKT-79221, is currently on combat watch.

The topic of military and civilian heroes does not end here, and we will definitely return to it.

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The history of the creation of the MAZ-541 airfield tractor

The MAZ-541 owes its creation, first of all, to the development of aircraft manufacturing. After all, at first, planes were transported around the airport by ordinary trucks, to which they were attached using special rods. But later, with the development of aircraft manufacturing, planes became heavier and larger, so ordinary trucks could not move them.

In order to create a car capable of solving the problems of moving an airplane around the airport without any inconvenience or difficulty, the Minsk Automobile Plant got down to business. This was at the end of the 50s, when the evolution of automobile and aircraft manufacturing reached its peak.

By the way, it was the “graduate” of the Minsk plant - MAZ-535 - that in those days served for the movement of aircraft . But he did not play this role in the best way, because the car had a very high seating position. This brought its own inconveniences: in order to connect the car with the aircraft, it was necessary to increase the rod and spend a lot of time.

In addition, moving backwards in such a car was very difficult due to extremely poor visibility.

Chassis

The machine is equipped with two continuous axles, in the middle of which there are planetary hypoid mechanisms. Rotation from the driveshaft and transfer case is transmitted to the wheels through axle shafts with flanges at the end, which serve as a mounting point for the wheel rims.

Both suspensions are spring, reinforced. The mounting brackets are borrowed from MAZ-525 trucks. The springs are assembled from parabolic sheets with lower support. Due to the low deflection of the package, the tractor's ride was rigid, but they did not soften the springs, as there was a danger of them sagging and breaking under the vehicle's own weight.

The steering knuckles of the front wheels of the pivot design, as well as the worm-hypoid steering mechanism, were taken from the MAZ-535 military truck. The driver had to make every effort to turn the steering wheel, so only strong and tall soldiers from the airport maintenance company were accepted for the position of tractor driver.

Tractor sedan

But the truck was replaced by a special airfield tractor for aircraft - MAZ-541 . This car in many ways destroyed all ideas about the automotive industry of that time. MAZ made an indelible impression at first sight. Even now, the MAZ-541, a photo of which is easy to find on the Internet, will amaze any viewer.

The fact is that this tractor does not resemble a truck at all, but a huge passenger sedan. The designers chose this particular concept for a reason: the fact is that this particular concept allowed for excellent visibility from all sides, including from behind.

In addition, this design corresponds to the design of ballast tractors, which can pull more weight due to stronger adhesion of the wheels to the ground.

Also, this appearance of the car looks very impressive , so it often moved aircraft for foreign flights in order to once again demonstrate the technical power and originality of the designers of the Soviet Union.

In 1986, there was an attempt to create another strong tractor, namely the MAZ-7940, but this model could not be developed to a fully operational state.

Making a machine

The MAZ-541 was developed as a tractor for towing passenger aircraft. Before him, this work was performed by army tractors, which created a number of problems. The main inconvenience was that the old tugs were too high and could not dive under the fuselage of the aircraft. We had to use a long tow bar, sacrificing maneuverability. In addition, it was inconvenient to work on military vehicles in reverse, and from time to time emergencies arose on the airfield.

When the number of accidents approached a critical level, the Ministry of Aviation Industry lost its nerve, and it ordered the development of a special vehicle that, on the one hand, could tow multi-ton vehicles, and on the other, would be maneuverable and safe. In addition, such a car had to look more or less elegant, so as not to damage the country’s prestige in front of foreigners who came to us by air.

The implementation of the ambitious idea was entrusted to Minsk designers. They began working on the project in 1956 and soon produced a vehicle that was compact for its class and quite nimble, capable of towing aircraft weighing up to 85 tons.

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"Heart" MAZ-541

airfield tractor was not the most economical equipment . Fuel consumption per 100 km was 130 liters, however, given that the maximum speed of this car is 30 km/h, this consumption figure was not critical. The fuel consumption of the MAZ-5337 is only 35l/100km.

The volume of the diesel engine of the D-12-A model was about 39 liters, direct fuel injection was provided, which for that time was a technical innovation and was extremely rare. The engine itself was equipped with 12 cylinders and, of course, high power of 500 hp.

There were variations with varying power from 375 to 600 horsepower. This engine version was previously used in tank production, and after modernization it was installed on the MAZ-541 . They really did a good job with this diesel engine, making it more powerful and efficient.

Thanks to this, the tractor could move aircraft weighing up to 85 tons! This is a truly impressive figure, because at that time very few types of equipment could pull such loads. Not to mention, the appearance of this tractor was truly unique and impressive. The MAZ-5551 truck, for example, can transport cargo up to 8.5 tons.

Features of operation

The technical characteristics of the Belarusian car allow the model to be used in difficult conditions, for transporting heavy and bulky cargo. The car is not afraid of intense loads. The machine boasts ease of operation, low maintenance and high maintainability. The car is often repaired independently, without contacting specialized service centers.

Attention! Despite the ease of repair, the manufacturer recommends regular scheduled maintenance and inspection. This will increase the reliability of the truck and reduce the likelihood of “sudden” malfunctions. In addition, it is recommended to carry out a major overhaul of the MAZ-5516 power plant in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The vehicle has a “reserve of carrying capacity,” which often allows it to transport cargo weighing more than 20 tons, and the reliability of the suspension makes it possible to operate the truck in difficult road conditions.

The versatility, reliability and unpretentiousness of the machine allow it to be used in various fields: construction, agriculture and public utilities, and cargo transportation.

Special outside and inside

Since towing aircraft is a very important and painstaking job, it was equipped with all-wheel drive . But since such maneuverability was not always needed, the front-wheel drive could be turned off. For maximum control over the movement of the vehicle and its valuable multi-ton cargo, 2 steering wheels are installed in the cabin.

So, according to the designers, it was easier to control the tractor. One steering wheel was responsible for steering the car when moving forward, and the other was responsible for driving backwards. Thus, it was as convenient as possible to control the tractor and the load, everything was under control.

The cabin itself was designed for 3 people. While two people are sitting at the controls, one can monitor the plane and give directions to the drivers. A very thoughtful move! The main thing is that neither the body nor the cabin interferes with looking back , because the car is designed in such a way that visibility is maximum.

That is why the external resemblance to a sedan. The gearbox was manual, like any other transmission of the time.

The vehicle performed its assigned tasks excellently and successfully transported Soviet Ilyas and “Tushkas” around the airfield. This tractor caused surprise and delight among tourists from all over the world.

Despite the fact that the USSR Ministry of Transport ordered more than a dozen similar vehicles from the Minsk Automobile Plant, only 3 of these airfield tractors were produced. Currently, they are not used , and they can only be seen in technical museums.

Until what period exactly did the MAZ-541 airfield tractor perform its functions, but in the early 1970s it could even be seen in a documentary film about the first flight of the TU-144 supersonic aircraft.

MAZ-541 is rightfully considered the most stylish tractor , which combines beauty, conceptuality, innovation and high power.

Truck recovery vehicles are created on the basis of the MAZ-437043 chassis; you can also read information about another MAZ model - 500.

Advantages and disadvantages

The car has both those and other qualities. Basically, most of the disadvantages apply to earlier models:

• low level of interior comfort;
• poor heat and sound insulation;
• weak stove;
• poor anti-corrosion coating, trucks that had just rolled off the assembly line began to “rot” and “bloom” literally after six months;
• poor optional equipment.

Attention! In most newer MAZ-5516 models, these shortcomings have been eliminated, but the car still cannot boast of good anti-corrosion protection. In addition, the quality of the interior assembly and design materials raises certain questions.

The car has many more pros than cons. The benefits include:

• High efficiency. Moderate fuel consumption, low price of spare parts and repair work;
• Easy to use. You can repair the car yourself, and the necessary spare parts are quite easy to buy. The machine does not require special care and is adapted to work in extremely difficult conditions;
• The car has a solid carrying capacity of 20 tons, however, this is not the limit. To increase the weight of the transported cargo, you can connect a trailer and transport up to 30 tons of cargo or materials;
• Price. The cost of a new car is much lower compared to similar trucks. In addition, fairly strong and technically serviceable used trucks can be purchased from 400 thousand rubles;
• Reliable suspension that has stood the test of time and work;
• Powerful, reliable and unpretentious MAZ-5516 engine.

Attention! A large number of negative reviews relate to early models. More modern specimens are free from “mistakes of other things” and can please you with their price-quality ratio.

This is a Soviet and Belarusian heavy-duty vehicle, which is popular not only in its homeland, but also in neighboring countries. This is due to the high reliability of the car, its unpretentiousness, efficiency, power and initially relatively low price. The machine can be used in construction, agriculture, and cargo transportation. The high power of power units often makes it possible to transport loads exceeding the maximum permitted load capacity. However, this significantly reduces the service life of the MAZ-5516. Models that are planned to be used for transporting goods over long distances are equipped with an extended cab with one or two berths. Among the car's shortcomings are a relatively low level of comfort and poor initial equipment.

MAZ-541, airfield tractor: technical characteristics, purpose. Giant sedan from the USSR

An all-wheel drive sedan almost eight meters long, weighing more than 28 tons, with wheels of different diameters, a three-hundred-horsepower engine and two steering wheels... You might think that we are talking about some kind of car from a science fiction film. However, this is not at all true. Such cars really existed, were successfully operated and were called MAZ-541. “Airfield monster” - that’s what contemporaries called this car, and there were reasons for that.

Memory

The MAZ-541 airfield tractor remains in the history of the automotive industry as a unique example of creative engineering. He became a record holder in his weight category, and, in fact, he had no equal. Soon, new tractors appeared at the airfields, powerful and maneuverable, which performed the additional function of a tanker. But all existing copies of five hundred and forty-one worked successfully until the end of the seventies.

For a long time, in addition to towing airliners, the tractor performed another function, which can be called honorable. The car met international flights at Sheremetyevo; it seemed to represent Aeroflot, and therefore the whole country. In the eyes of foreign guests, the MAZ-541 was another achievement of the Soviet aviation industry.

And when, after disembarking the passengers, the tractor took the airliner to the parking lot, it was a real theatrical event, and the foreigners who were already in the terminal building again took out their cameras in order to capture an unforgettable sight, even from afar.

The weight of the MAZ-54 airfield tractor was slightly less than 30 tons, but the car looked quite elegant. The necessary traction was provided by a powerful tank diesel engine with high efficiency. The gigantic tractor was a real decoration of the runway and all surrounding areas of Sheremetyevo Airport.

Aeroflot's order

The end of the fifties of the last century. There is an unspoken race between two states, the USSR and the USA, for the conquest of space and airspace. New technologies are emerging and being implemented, which are successfully used in the Soviet Union in the construction of civil aviation aircraft.

The latest Il-18, Tu-114 and even the supersonic passenger Tu-144 fly on international flights - aircraft that at that time were considered real giants of the air. And it was precisely because of their size and weight that a problem arose with their ground transportation.

Features of the airport sedan

MAZ-541, an airfield tractor, was designed taking into account all the features of towing aircraft. Good visibility and the required height of the car were provided by a body that resembled a passenger sedan. Thanks to this, the MAZ-541 could drive almost closely to the front landing gear of the aircraft without touching its belly.

To ensure the necessary traction force and good grip on the airfield surface, the car was equipped with wheels of different diameters: in front - from the YAZ-214, and in the rear, since this part was subjected to the greatest load, a pair from the MAZ-525 mining dump truck was installed. In addition, the car was equipped with all-wheel drive, which, if necessary, could turn off the front axle.

In the rather wide cabin of the MAZ-541, there were two control posts located diagonally relative to each other. This ensured the proper level of safety when towing the aircraft, the ability to drive forward and backward without the need to turn around; the driver only had to change seats from one seat to another.

In a word, the MAZ-541, an airfield tractor, to put it mildly, stood out from the traditional idea of ​​transport, not fitting into any category, remaining at the same time similar to a large passenger car, a truck, and even a tractor.

But this is not all the features of the amazing machine: Minsk engineers used the ballast method in their design.

Practical use

The MAZ-541, a new generation airfield tractor, replaced the MAZ-535 military trucks that were used at that time to tow large aircraft. The power of five hundred and thirty-five was barely enough to move the airliners, besides, the height of the MAZ-535 body did not allow the car to drive directly under the aircraft body, and it was necessary to use an additional rod to extend the hitch.

The new towing vehicle was designed with a sedan-type body that was as low as possible. MAZ-541, in fact, became the only tractor in the world with the external characteristics of a passenger car. However, the car could only be classified as a “passenger car” conditionally, since the wheels on the towing vehicle were far from small. The front ones were borrowed from the YAZ-214 truck, and the rear ones were supplied from the MAZ-525, a mining dump truck.

The MAZ-541 was an all-wheel drive vehicle with a range-mounted multiplier, thanks to which the front axle could be turned off if necessary. The adhesion of the tractor wheels to the road surface was ideal, which ensured maximum traction.

Ballast sedan

The MAZ-541 car was built according to the so-called ballast scheme: the car was specially made heavier, bringing its weight to 28 tons. Of course, the speed during towing with such a weight could not be high and did not exceed 20 km/h, but this greatly facilitated the process of transporting heavy airliners.

Naturally, in order to move such a colossus, an appropriate power unit was required.

Ballast method

It is not known for certain why the industrial designers of the Minsk Automobile Plant chose such a bold design for such a utilitarian car, but the fact is that the MAZ-541 turned out to be very, very unusual, especially for the Soviet school of automotive engineering. However, he was outstanding not only in appearance. Beneath the powerful contours was hidden a deformed tank diesel B-2, which had enormous torque and could move a tractor and an airplane, which together weighed about a hundred tons. The MAZ tractor was built using a ballast design - that is, the designers deliberately made it incredibly heavy - the car weighed about 28 tons. This made it easier for the tractor to move the airliners, even if only at a speed of about 20 kilometers per hour.

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Tractor engine

The airfield tractor was equipped with a derated twelve-cylinder diesel engine D12-A (civilian version) with a power of 300 l/s and a total volume of 38.8 liters.

This power unit was originally planned to be used in aircraft construction, namely on bombers, but nothing came of it, but the engine took its rightful place in tanks and tractors. Starting from 1939, the engine in various modifications, and accordingly with other indices, was installed on heavy KV (V-2K) tanks, a little later - on the legendary “thirty-fours” (V-2) and light BT-7m, as well as for tractors with crawler tracks “Voroshilovets” (V-2V).

Engine Features

The original purpose of the engine (aviation) determined the widespread use of light alloys in its design, which significantly lightened the weight of the power plant. And direct fuel injection, jet mixture formation, the use of bevel gears and inclined shafts in drives, overhead camshafts, and a dry sump were generally innovations that became widespread only at the very end of the twentieth century.

In general, the engine was distinguished by high specific parameters even by modern standards, but along with this it also had significant shortcomings, which, accordingly, became problems of the “airfield sedan”.

Disadvantages of the tractor

• A bad feature of the MAZ-541 car was that its operation was accompanied by an increased level of noise and exhaust from clouds of smoke. The reason for this was the oil scraper rings installed on the engine pistons. They worked, to put it mildly, ineffectively, therefore a large amount of oil burned along with the fuel, so the car required a lot of lubricant.
• The complex design of the engine drives caused difficulties with its maintenance.
• The high-pressure fuel pump installed in the engine had a significant cost, but low reliability.
• The electric starter had low efficiency (the gear ratio differed from the optimal one).
• The new tractor, of course, had a relatively good overview, but the huge hood and feed created a lot of “dead spots”, making it difficult to control the vehicle.

Device

MAZ 5516 is made in accordance with Soviet quality requirements. Some improvements in terms of operating comfort and design are observed only in the latest versions of the model. The first variations of the truck were treated with the cheapest paints, and the process itself was done manually. As a result, the car body began to “rot” after 2-3 years of work. On modern versions of the MAZ 5516, the problem was solved due to modern technologies and new materials.

The car body has a rectangular shape with slightly rounded edges. There is no hood, so the main elements are installed under the operator's cabin. The bumper is made of metal and is part of the passive protection system. The wheel arches are equipped with a convenient step that helps you climb into the cabin. The mirrors have different viewing angles, which ensures a minimal “dead zone” area. The operator's cabin is complemented by a cargo side with folding side or rear parts. In the 2000s, body heating became functionally available, making it possible to transport a variety of liquid mixtures and concrete solutions over long distances, even in sub-zero temperatures. The quality of body welding meets European standards. Additionally, the MAZ 5516 can be equipped with a specialized trailer, turning it into a full-fledged road train. Thanks to a special fixation system, maximum reliability of movement is achieved.

The basis of the MAZ 5516 is a reinforced frame, which allows it to transport a large mass. Modern versions do not require additional reinforcement, although in the first modifications this operation was performed by the drivers themselves or specialized workers. The latest variations received a double “spar-in-spar” frame, which increased the strength of the car.

The truck is equipped with 4 brake systems: service, parking, auxiliary and spare. again, there are devices for connecting the semi-trailer brakes with a 2-wire pneumatic drive. The pneumatic service braking system acts on all wheels through the brake drums. In the basic version it is complemented by ABS. The parking and spare systems act on the brake elements of the middle and rear axles, which are actuated by means of brake chambers. They are controlled from the inside using a crane. The parking system performs a number of backup functions and is used for braking in case of failure of the service brake system. The auxiliary system is started by creating back pressure in the exhaust system. It is used for light braking during long descents on mountain roads.

The type of transmission installed on the MAZ 5516 depends on the engine. The Yaroslavl-made motors come with the Yaroslavl gearbox YaMZ 2381. This 5-speed gearbox has a double final drive with planetary gearboxes (gear ratio - 7.24). Such a scheme actually gives 10 gears, which is enough for such a technique. During operation, the rigid gearbox lever behaves rather capriciously, and the car itself reacts to the driver’s movements rather slowly. In versions with foreign units, a 9-speed ZF manual gearbox is used, which is more costly and efficient.

MAZ 5516 is a car for work, so you can’t count on comfort in its interior. The truck is equipped with 2 types of operator cabs: standard (without a sleeping compartment) and large (with one or two shelves allowing for rest). The first versions of the model were not intended for quiet work. Currently, the MAZ 5516 has received a number of options that make its operation more pleasant. Air shock absorbers under the driver's seat reduced vibration, and the generous seating position ensured excellent visibility. Sound insulation has been improved. again, 3-point seat belts and adjustment of the steering column and seats appeared.

MAZ 5516 is a machine with 20 years of experience in the most intense conditions, which has gained love in all areas of the former USSR. When choosing this model, you can be confident in its long service life and reliability.

MAZ-541: technical characteristics

• Dimensions (mm) – 7797x3400x2802.
• Sedan weight (kg) – 28,230.
• Trailer weight (kg) – 85,000.
• Base (mm) – 3403.
• Gearbox – 3 stages for forward movement and 2 for reverse.
• Drive – full.
• Wheel tire size: front – 15-20 inches, rear – 17-32 inches.
• Fuel consumption is 130 liters per 100 km.
• The maximum speed without a trailer is 30 km/h.

The MAZ-541, whose characteristics are certainly not ordinary, is a truly grandiose machine. Even such, at first glance, huge fuel consumption is not so great, because the total weight of the car and the towed aircraft exceeded 100 tons! And for such a weight this is not much at all.

Power point

The engine installed on the tractor from the tank register is D-12A.

• Number of cylinders - 12.
• The gas distribution mechanism (GRM) is overhead valve.
• Configuration - V-shaped cylinder arrangement.
• Power - 300 l. With.
• Maximum traction load - 85 tons.
• Fuel consumption is 130 liters per 100 kilometers.
• Fuel consumption at airfield sites is 45 liters per hour.

The transmission is friction, designed for repeated starting with slipping. The gearbox is modified, two-stage, with one reverse gear.

Super tractor that never became serial

Of course, the “541st” can hardly be called even pretty, although in comparison with the airfield tractors of those years it was certainly a beautiful car: a body painted in two colors, four headlights, even chrome on the radiator grille, fashionable for that time. In general, the unit is quite worthy to meet international airliners and inspire respect in foreign guests for the technical achievements of the Soviet state.

But despite all their advantages, merits and characteristics, these machines never went into production.

A total of 3 MAZ-541 cars (1956) were produced, and those were prototypes that the plant transferred to Moscow airports for testing. And that was the end of it. A little later, Aeroflot refused the previously ordered 10 more cars.

Advantages and disadvantages

Over time, production of the MAZ 541 was discontinued and this indicates that the car had shortcomings. And this despite the fact that in those days the tractor became a breakthrough in the field of airfield technology.

pros

• two control stations for precise control;
• low height.

Minuses

• lack of power steering;
• impressive overall dimensions;
• insufficient review.

Taken together, the shortcomings led to the appearance of more powerful and compact tractor models later. It is worth adding that the weight of the aircraft increased. Equipment with greater traction power was required, and accordingly the requirements increased.

The MAZ 541 sedan was not able to compete with technical progress. It could tow aircraft whose take-off weight did not exceed 85 tons, and in modern conditions this is no longer enough.

Large sedan in recent years

MAZ 541 served at Aeroflot for almost 20 years; production was completed at the end of the 70s. Officially, there were three airfield tractors. In 1976, 10 more models were ordered for civil aviation, but they were never destined to leave the assembly line.

However, this did not prevent the MAZ 541 from going down in history as one of the heaviest sedans in the world. But his work at the Sheremetyev International Airport did not glorify him throughout the world. In addition, the tractor became a living reminder of the non-standard approach of Soviet engineers to the development of unique equipment.

Short career

It is unknown what the reasons for the refusal of airfield services from this vehicle are. According to one version, this happened because the aviation industry was developing quite quickly and aircraft were being prepared for production, the weight of which exceeded the permissible 85 tons. That is, a machine that has not yet entered the assembly line has already begun to become obsolete. According to another version, the reason was existing design flaws.

But one way or another, three experienced 541s served Aeroflot for another 14 years. The last example of the tractor was scrapped in 1970. Thus, the MAZ-541, a giant sedan from the USSR, has sunk into the history of the domestic automotive industry, forever remaining the largest in the world. None of the three cars has survived to this day. Today, it is possible to evaluate the external characteristics of a tractor only from the rare surviving photographs of not very good quality and from the products of car-model workshops, which, however, do not always accurately reproduce machine parts.

Notes

1. Shugurov L. M.
   Cars of Russia and the USSR. - T. 2. - M.: ILBI, "Progress", 1994. - P. 120-121.
2. O. Slavin.
   [5koleso.ru/articles/obzory/maz-541-gigantskiy-sedan-iz-sssr MAZ-541: a giant sedan from the USSR]. 5Wheel (04/1/2016).

Historical reference

The sedan tractor is practically unknown to the general public. This is because it performed highly specialized tasks and was not encountered in everyday life. The production of a tractor with a sedan configuration was launched in the 50s of the last century. It began to be produced at the car plant in Minsk under the serial number 541.

Airfield tractor MAZ 541

Not much time passed after the war, the country was still recovering and actively recovering. One of these areas was aircraft manufacturing. The number of aircraft for civil aviation increased, and therefore the volume of air traffic also increased.

At large airfields there was a need for special equipment that could perform the functions of a tractor. At the same time, the equipment had to be maneuverable, high-torque and compact in size.

The issue became especially acute with the appearance of production models of the new Tu and IL aircraft. The planes were of considerable size and, accordingly, impressive weight. The predecessor of the 541st MAZ 535 was not able to cope with them.

The truck did not have proper maneuverability, and often had to constantly re-engage the hitch, which increased the towing time. The main highlight of the new tractor was the sedan-type body, and the weight of 28 tons, which made it the heaviest car in such a body.

Price

The cost of new MAZ 5516 cars from official dealers starts from 1.9 million rubles for the basic configuration.

The supply of trucks has been carried out for 20 years, therefore there is a large assortment of used vehicles in good condition on the market. This special equipment, even 10 years old, has excellent performance characteristics, and the main danger is corrosion. However, the first versions should not be considered, since they usually do not perform the best. The best option would be modifications released in the early 2000s. They are distinguished by their low price (260,000-500,000 rubles for cars from 2001-2004) and can last quite a long time. Models of 2009-2010 will cost 900,000-1,150,000 rubles, 2014-2015 - 1.42-1.65 million rubles.

When choosing a used car, you should not trust the speedometer. It is better to pay attention to the condition of the frame, springs and suspension.

Design and interior

Over the years, a limited number of models have been produced. They all had the same color: the hood and roof were painted white, and the body was orange. Towbars were mounted on the front and rear bumpers, and there was a huge MAZ emblem on the radiator grille.

The optics were dual on both sides, the glass was made of three parts. For natural ventilation, special hatches were provided on the roof.

The tractor was often compared to a tractor due to the fact that the wheels located at the front had a smaller diameter compared to those located at the rear. Tires were installed in front from the YAZ truck with index 214, which was common at that time, and in the rear from MAZ 525, a dump truck for working in quarries.

Thanks to this design, reliable adhesion to the airfield surface was ensured. Actually, the car was so heavy for these purposes. What’s surprising is that the airfield tractor had a four-door design.

However, the driver and passengers could only enter the cabin through the front door. The rest were used for technical purposes. The low profile made it possible to drive up almost close to the chassis without touching the fuselage.

Cabin MAZ-5516

The interior of the cabin is quite ascetic and modest. Gray “rough” plastic is used as the main finishing material. The seats are trimmed with moderately hard fabric. As for the build quality of the interior trim, it is quite mediocre - when operating a truck, knocking, squeaking, and crunching noises appear inside.

The dashboard greets the driver with the same asceticism as the entire interior space - a set of necessary instruments and controls, a standard stove. In some modifications, the truck is equipped with a standard radio receiver, or is limited to audio preparation.

The advantages of the cabin include its size - compact on the outside, it is quite spacious inside. This applies to both short and long cab versions. The latter is equipped with a full-fledged and quite comfortable sleeping place, which is a real salvation for MAZ-5516 forwarding drivers when transporting goods over long distances.

Drivers can adjust the rearview mirrors in such a way that there are virtually no blind spots left, which, coupled with excellent visibility, increases the comfort and safety of working on the truck.

Other advantages of the salon interior also include:

1. High-set driver's seat equipped with a separate spring system. It is also adjustable for reach and backrest angle. A comfortable, ergonomic and high seat promotes good visibility and reduces driver fatigue, even on long trips. The spring system dampens unnecessary vibrations for comfortable control;
2. Drivers can adjust the steering column in terms of tilt and reach, which allows even larger drivers to use the heavy-duty vehicle comfortably;
3. For the safety of drivers and passengers, the car is equipped with seat belts;
4. The salon space is equipped with shelves and niches for personal belongings, tools and documentation. There are also curtains or partitions that separate the “stowage block” from the rest of the cabin space;
5. The MAZ-5516 cabin has average quality noise insulation and thermal insulation protection (the first models could not boast of these qualities at all). On cars for long journeys, an autonomous heater is installed.

Attention! The truck is standardly equipped with a pre-heater for the power plant, which greatly facilitates operation in severe frosts.

Specifications

MAZ 541 had quite compact dimensions, especially considering its height. Its predecessors could not boast of this: conventional truck-based tractors. To increase the accuracy of docking, the developers have provided two control locations: front and rear.

The latter was intended for more precise control and attachment to aircraft landing gear. After engaging the chassis, the driver sat forward and continued working.

The front axle was plug-in. The tank V-2, which was originally developed for aviation, but did not reach the required parameters, was chosen as the power plant. By the way, this type of motor is still used in the production of heavy tractors.

Dual control

The tasks of towing airliners are associated with certain maneuvering rules. Therefore, the car was controlled via a dual steering wheel. Two independent steering wheels were installed in the cabin. One steering wheel was located in the usual place, in front, on the left, and the other was placed diagonally, behind, on the right side. Other controls, clutch, brake and accelerator pedals were also duplicated. This arrangement was required by the specifics of maneuvering the tractor.

Operation of the first MAZ-541 vehicle in test mode showed good results. The car easily towed Il-62, Tu-114 and even Tu-144 Concorde. After the tractor passed all tests, the USSR Ministry of Aviation Industry ordered 13 more vehicles. However, the tractors were not produced due to changes in technical conditions and the transition of the Minsk Plant to the production of more modern types of airfield equipment.