Flatbed medium-duty truck JAC N75 (N721-type)

About the manufacturing company

As of 2016, JAC Motors was one of the three largest automakers in the People's Republic of China (second only to the fully state-owned FAW and Dongfeng Corporation). This is a company with a full and independent production cycle and a full range of automobile products: cars, SUVs, minivans, trucks of all classes, buses. And also – universal chassis, engines and gearboxes, mechanical engineering equipment. Annual production volume is 700 thousand cars and another 500 thousand engines.

In the Russian Federation, JAK commercial trucks are sold and serviced through a dealer network of thirty regional companies. The official distributor has its own spare parts warehouse in Moscow (and it is really large!), which reduces the waiting time for missing parts. There is an electronic catalog of spare parts that makes them easier to find.

These dealership centers with service stations, which accept all JAK Motors warranty obligations in dozens of regions of Russia, cover a vast territory, right up to Irkutsk. In the Far East, there is no promotion of new cars of this brand - due to the total dominance of cheap “elderly” right-hand drive Hino and Fuso from neighboring Japan. But in the European territory of Russia, finding an official JAC dealer is not difficult. And the factory warranty for JAC N75 trucks is currently 3 years or 200 thousand km , and this already says a lot and characterizes the model on the positive side.

Appearance

The model has received a more modern design and is now similar in appearance to its main Asian competitors - Hyundai, Nissan and others. This is not surprising, since the designers collaborated with a well-known company from Japan - Isuzu.

The powerful bumper, large optical devices and large glass area attract attention. It is also worth highlighting the uniformity of the gaps of all cabin panels. The exterior mirrors are compact, which is not very good, and are placed forward on large brackets.

About the technical characteristics of JAC N75

• Wheel formula – 4x2.
• Overall chassis dimensions: length – 6.945 m, width – 1.995 m, height – 2.222 m.
• Wheelbase – 3.845 m; installation length – 5.155 m.
• Track width – 1.665 / 1.525 m.
• Chassis curb weight – 3.02 t; load capacity – 4.47 t; total weight – 7.49 tons.
• Ground clearance – 173 mm.
• The maximum climbable grade is 30 percent.
• Maximum speed: 90 km/h – with Cummins ISF3.8s4R154 engine (Euro-4); 110 km/h – (with Cummins ISF3.8s5154 engine (Euro-5).
• Minimum turning radius – 8 m (with Cummins ISF3.8s4R154 engine (Euro-4); 7.1 m (with Cummins ISF3.8s5154 engine (Euro-5).
• Tire size – 215/75R17.5.
• Fuel tank capacity – 100 liters.

It's about statistics

As I was told, in 2015, the Chinese automaker JAC, one of the top three leaders in its homeland (the first place is held by the completely state-owned “unit with wings” FAW, the second by the Dongfeng Corporation), revised the strategy of its business in Russia and significantly updated the team. The main essence of the update is that a special technical department has been created to adapt products to Russian conditions. Thus, the chassis for our market has a number of differences, although it is manufactured on a common assembly line in China.

The car has a single key of the “throwaway” type - European style!

Among these differences are a fundamentally different set of frost-resistant rubber goods, a Webasto pre-heater as standard, an electric heater in the oil pan from an external energy source, preparation for installing a refrigeration compressor, a power take-off, full-length crankcase protection together with the gearbox, and custom control unit settings engine, the documentation is completely in Russian (there are no more “cabin reset procedures” and “driver belts not tied”) and some other small details.

About the configuration of JAC N75 trucks

As standard, cars of this model are equipped with:

• MP3/USB radio with antenna and two speakers;
• lockable tool box;
• electric rear view mirrors,
• steering column adjustable for tilt and reach; electric windows;
• cruise control;
• central locking;
• height-adjustable driver's seat belt;
• energy-absorbing front bumper;
• anti-lock braking system (ABS);
• daytime running lights;
• reverse buzzer;
• mountain brake;
• electrically adjustable headlights;
• lower protection of the engine and gearbox, tachometer, electrical connector and wiring for the tachograph;
• heating elements of the fuel system and oil sump;
• footrest with a special anti-slip coating;
• Flip key with immobilizer.

All cars of this model supplied to Russia are equipped with a “winter package” as standard:

• A fuel filter with a separator and heating, which dilutes diesel fuel at sub-zero temperatures.
• Rubber parts and components that are resistant to frost. Consistently low temperatures do not affect their strength and do not lead to ripping/cracking.
• Additional insulation and sound insulation of the cabin, which maintain the microclimate and comfort in the cabin even when traveling long distances.
• Powerful and efficient interior heater.
• Heated rear view mirrors provide better visibility and safety even in snowy weather.
• A heat-insulating engine screen that maintains the operating temperature of the diesel engine in winter and ensures its slow cooling.

As additional options, air conditioning, daytime running lights, a Webasto liquid preheater, power take-off, tachograph, and spoiler are offered.

Possible options for popular add-ons on the JAC N75 chassis: Flatbed + crane-manipulator unit, bunker carrier (multi-lift), manufactured goods or isothermal van, refrigerator, tow truck, vacuum machine.

Salon N-75

The salon leaves a favorable impression. Thanks to the low seating position and wide doorways, it is comfortable to climb into the cabin, and the presence of a step and handrail makes it easy to get in and out. To decorate the interior, the developers used good quality plastic, which has a nice texture and is pleasant to the touch.

There are many containers and pockets for storing all small things. The instrument panel is laconic and easy to read.

The position of the steering wheel can be changed in 2 planes, and the driver's seat has several adjustments, which allows you to sit comfortably.

On the right side of the driver's seat there are two seats for passengers, the backs of which fold down.

Ergonomics are at a high level, all controls are located in their places. The main panel has no innovations; in the upper left part there is a JAC N-75 radio with USB, and below it there is control of the climate system. Air conditioning is also available for a fee.

The visibility from the driver's seat is acceptable, if you do not take into account the right mirror - it was equipped in such a way that you need to look into it through the windshield, which is not very convenient.

The instrument panel is also worth noting. The main screen displays clear readings and warnings in Russian. Equipped with all the necessary dials and several control lamps for the most important parameters.

Light-colored upholstery visually increases the volume of the cabin, although it needs to be cleaned regularly. There is a large compartment behind the seats, and there are pockets in the doors. There is only one lamp, which is clearly not enough for normal lighting.

There is no sleeping place, since the truck is not designed for long journeys and you can sleep only if the seats are folded down.

Engine JAC N75

Trucks of this model are equipped with two versions of the Chinese-made four-cylinder 3.8-liter Cummins diesel engine. The power unit of the Cummins ISF3.8s4R154 model complies with the Euro-4 environmental standard. It produces 156 horsepower, or 112 kW, at 2600 rpm. The maximum torque is 490 Nm at 1200–1900 rpm. Type of electronic fuel injection equipment: Common Rail+EGR+POC.

The second version of this engine – “Cummins ISF3.8s5154” – meets the requirements of the Euro-5 standard. With equal technical parameters, it is equipped with Common Rail+SCR fuel equipment (with an exhaust gas aftertreatment system / selective catalytic reduction system).

It should be noted that the Chinese-assembled American Cummins ISF 3.8 is not only a time-tested diesel engine model, but also a power unit well known to domestic drivers. This four-cylinder diesel engine with a volume of 3.8 liters can be found on Valdai, on “smaller” MAZs and on about a dozen (!) classmate trucks. Therefore, if you need to repair it, search for consumables and spare parts, it is not at all necessary to contact JAC Motors.

Price

The price of the basic model is 1,600,000 rubles. For an isothermal van without a refrigerator you will have to pay another 270 thousand rubles.

The maximum configuration costs about 2,300,000 rubles.

The car is sold through a dealer network that includes more than 30 companies.

Jak N-75 is a good and practical truck at a low price, which has decent technical equipment, efficiency and safety. This is a great option for those who do not have a lot of money to buy and maintain a truck.

Transmission

The gearbox is our own, manual 6-speed LC6T55. The gearshift lever strokes are short, gears shift clearly. The empty car starts quietly from second gear. The engine and gearbox are protected from damage; this is part of the basic equipment, especially for Russia.

The elastic 3.8-liter Cummins is not demanding on the accuracy of use of the gearbox; it allows you to easily start from second gear, immediately switch to third, and sixth gear is suitable for the entire speed range from 60 to 110 km/h. The cable-driven gearbox lever is located on a special on the podium between the seats, and not on the front panel, unlike European “classmates”.

Maintenance and repair

To keep the truck in good condition and extend the life of all its main components, maintenance should be carried out after 3,000 kilometers, or three months after the start of operation, whichever comes first.

Subsequent maintenance of the JAC N-75 must be performed every 10,000 km of travel. With each maintenance, the engine oil must be changed, as well as filters - oil and air and other consumables. In addition, they check and regulate tire pressure, diagnose the brake system, steering and other important components.

The driver should check the engine and gearbox oil levels, brake fluid and fuel levels every day or at least once every few days, inspect optical instruments and the body part. If serious malfunctions are detected, you should immediately contact the service center.

Suspension. Brakes. Bridges

The suspension is made without exotics: dependent, fully leaf spring, with anti-roll bar on the rear axle. Which is a very smart solution for an inexpensive “workhorse” in domestic conditions. Of course, more than once there will be a temptation to overload the car, and this design will show itself in this case from its best side. The spring earrings are on silent blocks; naturally, there are no lubrication points. But grease fittings are present on the driveshaft crosspieces, but this is not a problem. The brake system is pneumatic. Front and rear are familiar drum mechanisms. The wheels have lost their outdated footings, and the headaches will be reduced.

Pneumatic equipment is installed here from all well-known leaders of the international market: from Wabco to Knorr-Bremse. This clearly indicates that when designing the machine, the Chinese did not order the final architecture of the entire system, but developed it themselves, carefully selecting components from catalogs. This means that in non-warranty repairs, if necessary, there is an option to do the same - by contacting component suppliers directly.

The dual-circuit pneumatic truck, from the famous one, with components from Wabco, is a big plus that adds points to the JAC N75 compared to its competitors with hydraulic brakes. The nylon brake lines come in different colors depending on their function, which is really convenient.

Positive Chinese

This was in the fall of 2014.
Skeptically examining the next Asian medium-duty truck JAC N75, I did not expect anything interesting, especially since the white cabin emphasized the essence of the “incubator” cloning of the vehicles, like two peas in a pod similar to each other, but then not all my assumptions turned out to be correct, and the truck in Overall I unexpectedly liked it. Of course, there were some comments and shortcomings, and two years later I was offered to test another “75th Jak”, but for the 2016 model year, and based on the test results, I am ready to repeat again: the Chinese auto industry continues to develop. Like this. And now first things first.

Safe cabin

Chinese designers proudly noted that while working on the new truck, they tried to make the cabin safe and comfortable. The first property was achieved due to a more rigid cabin design while simultaneously reducing its weight. The cab features a more rigid frame and reinforced doors, significantly reducing the risk of injury in the event of a collision. At the same time, the cabin has been made more spacious, so you can easily fit any equipment or personal items in it. Currently, all vehicle components have successfully passed the necessary certification tests.

Learn to read and write!

I will immediately dismiss all sorts of disputes regarding durability and reliability, which first arise simultaneously with the appearance of cars from the Middle Kingdom on the horizon. Today’s material is not a resource test or a reliability marathon, but an ordinary look at a relatively new and inexpensive truck model. The visual sensations of good quality workmanship and neatness of assembly pleasantly surprised me, resulting in the fact that the only serious complaint I have about this car is the grammar of its on-board computer and nameplates. Previously, I had not even suspected the existence of mysterious “cabin reset procedures” and had never seen a driver who “didn’t put his seat belts on”... Agree, if you take a Chinese truck from the mid-2000s, then these claims would be simply ridiculous against the backdrop of much more significant comments identified even without the use of diagnostic tools. Therefore, I recommend that you don’t turn your nose up to start with, but take a ride on the Jacques N series.

License for appearance

The falling window lines of the side windows and the vertical rectangles of the headlights along the edges of the angular contours of the cabin with a large glass area - I have already seen it somewhere. That's right, it's based on a licensed Isuzu cabin from the previous generation. Is it good or bad? From the point of view of capacity and ease of landing, there are no comments, but something pushed the Japanese to create a new cabin, and it is unlikely that it was just a changing fashion. The answer to this question can be given either by a long life test or a crash test, but this is not my task for today, and I am not yet ready to conduct a crash test on my own.

Silent evidence of the careful manufacturing of the truck - detailing on the frame

In our market, JAC N-series medium-duty trucks are represented by three models: N120 with a gross weight of 11,989 kg, N75 with a gross weight of 7,490 kg and N56 with a gross weight of 5,600 kg. For testing, I got the average model N75 (however, according to) with a superstructure in the form of an isothermal van with an “H-THERMO” refrigeration unit from Automechanical Plant LLC. The rear-view mirror brackets are fixed to the cabin, widely spaced to the sides and brought forward, there are no “hemispheres” for better control of blind spots, and the visibility of the mirrors is “C”, although you can get used to everything. “This is a stumbling block,” a company representative agreed with me. And he suggested taking a look at the equipment storage area, where there was a chassis with typical “Europeanized” mirror racks with double packages with hemispheres and a “curb controller.” They explained to me that the new option is currently in the process of certification and the shortcoming will soon be eliminated. The front bumper with fog lights is painted in the color of the cabin. The door handles are horizontal and open using archaic buttons, which evokes some nostalgia, but the effort is small and getting into the cabin is quite convenient.

Add-on options

The JAC N75 truck chassis is quite versatile. Depending on the needs of the consumer, the truck can be equipped with a variety of add-ons. The most popular currently are:

1. Onboard cargo platform with crane-manipulator installation;
2. Bunker carrier;
3. Manufactured goods van;
4. Isothermal van;
5. Refrigerator booth;
6. Car tow truck;
7. Car tank.

This car can also be found with a tent body.

Engine access

Access to the power plant and many other units located in the engine compartment is provided by a special lifting mechanism that allows you to tilt the cab forward and lock it in this position.

Ghosts of Vivid Emotions

Going to the test, I did not expect bright emotions from this truck. And what happened in the finale. Yes, it would be naive to expect any surprises in dynamics or, for example, in ergonomics, especially in this price segment. But what a breakthrough in quality! The colored nylon pipelines alone, neatly laid and with good connectors, command respect! And nothing in the cabin creaks, doesn’t smell bad, and doesn’t get in the way under your hands. And overall, this inconspicuous device works well - it drives well and brakes well. In a word, the truck is built with high quality at a fairly good technical level, while at the same time being simple in design. Of course, there were some comments and shortcomings, and to be honest, there is no smell of innovation here either. However, if this continues, then soon we will all forget that Chinese cars were once downright bad...

The car was provided for testing by the representative office of JAC in Russia