Mini tractor KMZ-012: technical specifications, operating instructions, attachments, reviews

Kurgan Machine-Building Plant is one of the most progressive enterprises in its region, promoting import substitution.
The company's products are distinguished by reasonable prices, high levels of performance, reliability and maintainability. Thanks to all the features of the products, domestic users appreciated the efforts of the plant’s creators and actively switched to using Russian agricultural machines. But in order to understand the reasons for the success of Kurganmashzavod, you should quickly get acquainted with the history of the concern’s triumph and the first mini tractor that contributed to worldwide recognition.

Manufacturer

The KMZ-012 mini-tractor was designed and launched by the Kurgan Plant as part of a program to develop the market for small-sized equipment intended for small farms and subsidiary plots. The first such model rolled off the production line of the enterprise in 2002. To date, this tractor has already been discontinued. But he still has a lot of fans. Farmers are very willing to buy this model through advertisements and secondhand. Finding such a tractor, for example, via the Internet will not be difficult.

What specific jobs is it used for?

With the help of this technology, farmers and owners of large household plots can mechanize their work:

• for digging up potatoes;
• hilling of trees and shrubs;
• harrowing the soil.

Also outside the city, this tractor can be used for mowing meadows and fields.

In urban environments, this model is most often used for transporting small quantities of solid and bulk cargo and clearing snow. In addition, a brush can be attached to the tractor for sweeping streets. In construction, this model is often used for mixing concrete.

Main technical characteristics

This model is distinguished by its excellent performance characteristics due, of course, to its thoughtful design.
The performance characteristics of this equipment are actually simply excellent. Tractor KMZ-012: main characteristics

The track of the KMZ mini-tractor is adjustable into two positions - 700 and 900 mm. This increases the convenience of working on difficult terrain.

A few facts about the company

The project to build a heavy crane factory was created and signed back in 1939, but construction was delayed until 1947 due to the martial law of the USSR. The year 1950 marked the date of release of the first products. Until 1962, the factory was engaged in the production of ATS tracked tractors, and then switched to the artillery series and BMP combat vehicles.

In 1992, a production merger took place, due to which the company was transformed into Kurganmashzavod OJSC. At the same time, export relations were established. Agricultural machinery has appeared in the assortment relatively recently since 2002. Catalogs often contain compact mini tractors, which are in great demand among domestic consumers.

Separately, it should be noted that most of the company's production capacity is concentrated in China. Thanks to this, the company is able to significantly reduce the cost of its products. Due to this factor, the KMZ series of mini tractors has become a great competitor to foreign special equipment.

Features of the model range and prices for KMZ mini tractors

The range of special equipment is based on one prototype - the KMZ 012 minitractor. Despite this, each model has individual technical characteristics. To understand the differences, it is recommended to study all modifications separately.

KMZ 012

This version belongs to the 0.2 traction classification. It has a 4-stroke diesel engine SK12. It is equipped with 2 cylinders, which are arranged in 1 row. Motor power reaches 12 hp. s., and the crankshaft speed is 3000 rpm. The engine is equipped with an air cooling system. The model consumes up to 248 grams per hour of operation. fuel. This power unit is produced at a Kazakh factory.

The chassis is made according to the 4x2 pattern. This informs that the drive operates on the rear wheels, and the front ones in this case are guides. The wheelset located on the front axle has a reduced radius. Separately, it should be noted that here it is possible to change the track size.

The transmission is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission with 4 front speed modes and two rear speed modes. This allows the KMZ mini tractor to move at a speed of 15 km/h forward and 4.5 km/h backward. The transmission design includes a disc-type brake system, as well as a dry clutch. Separately, for the operation of the suspension device, 2 independent PTOs are provided - front and rear. This significantly expands the functionality of the unit, allowing the use of attachments on the front linkage.

The KMZ-012 minitractor was introduced to the market in 2002. The equipment fully complied with all the technical requirements of those times, which allowed the minitractor to create very strong competition with many analogues. Serial production of the mini tractor was carried out by the Kurgan Machine-Building Plant. It should be noted that this manufacturer had not previously produced such equipment, and the KMZ-012 model became the debut. At that time, the product was practically unknown, but the very affordable price played an important role in the great demand, since Swedish and Chinese cars were much more expensive. With such a price tag, the manufacturer has endowed its model with fairly high reliability, which also affected its popularity in the domestic market. After some time, the equipment became in demand in Poland, Romania and many CIS countries.

The KMZ-012 minitractor is a 0.2 traction class of special equipment for universal purposes. The model can also be equipped with many different types of attachments, which makes the mini tractor an excellent assistant when working on small private and agricultural farms.

Important Technical characteristics of the Mitsuber front loader

Tractor KMZ-012: characteristics of the engines used

What specific parameters the units installed on this model have can be found in the table below.
Engines KMZ-012

The SK-12 engine is produced by the Kazakh enterprise ZSA, V2Ch - ChTZ-Uraltrak, VANGUARD 16NR 305447 - by Briggs & Stratton. HATZ 1D81Z units are manufactured at the factories of the Motorenfabrik Hatz corporation. This four-stroke engine with a vertical cylinder is installed on the latest modification - KMZ-012N.

Modifications

Including the basic version, the tractor is produced in four modifications. They are practically no different from each other. The main difference lies in the engines, or rather in their performance. The dimensions and weight of the equipment remained unchanged.

The KMZ model range includes:

• KMZ-012Ch. This mini tractor is equipped with a V-shaped power unit V2CH-01. It was produced by Chelyabinsk Mechanical. The unit is a four-stroke diesel engine with a maximum power of 12 hp. and rotation speed 2800-3000 rpm. Number of cylinders – two, cooling system – air. The use of this engine reduced the fuel consumption of the equipment to 190g/hour. The weight of the tractor increased to 775 kg.
• KMZ-012B. This version is equipped with an American-made engine. This is a four-stroke carburetor-type engine with two cylinders and an air cooling system. The maximum power of the installation is 14.5 hp. at a rotation speed of 2950-3000 rpm. He increased the power of the tractor and expanded its scope of application. Fuel consumption, compared to the basic modification, increased to 280 g/hour, but the weight of the mini tractor decreased to 745 kg;
• KMZ-012N. This version uses another American-made engine. It is a single-cylinder diesel unit with a maximum power of 13 hp. and a maximum crankshaft rotation speed of 3000 rpm. During an hour of operation, this engine consumes about 280 g of fuel. The operating weight of the tractor increased to 780 kg. This engine has good technical characteristics and has proven itself to be a reliable and unpretentious mechanism in terms of fuel quality.

Transmission model

All modifications of KMZ-012 are exclusively rear-wheel drive. The front wheels of the tractor are mounted on a balancing swing beam. This allows the bridge to follow the irregularities of the road. And therefore, the driver does not experience any discomfort when performing work on this tractor.

The transmission of this model is mechanical with a dry clutch. The tractor is equipped with disc brakes. The latter are installed in the gearbox housing.

Attachments

The hydraulic pump of the KMZ mini-tractor operates from the transmission. Unfortunately, many farmers find this design not very successful. The fact is that when the clutch is depressed, the model’s hydraulics do not function. Therefore, KMZ-012 requires some skill in operating it.

There are two attachments in this model - front and rear. Both of these units are hydraulically controlled and have a standard three-point mounting system. More than 20 types of attachments can be combined with this model. For example, very often the following are used with such tractors:

• snow blower;
• dump;
• front mower;
• cart;
• potato digger.

Maintenance and repair

Before you start using the mini tractor, the recommendations for its operation say that you need to run it in. This is an important point in maintenance, since running-in allows all elements to warm up.

The engine must function without failure. It is imperative to check the engine oil for leaks. The oil must be changed according to the schedule presented in the operating manual.

During the first run-in after purchase, you must use the engine only at low speeds. This should last for 70 hours. After the break-in is completed, you can use the device at full engine load. During break-in, you should carefully check the strength of the fastenings of the mini tractor parts.

Maintenance before preservation

Before mothballing the mini tractor, it is necessary to carry out the following maintenance:

• before you start using the device, you must carefully check all parts and fastenings;
• engine oil needs to be changed every 50 km;
• Before changing the oil, the engine must be warmed up well;
• The transmission oil is changed annually;
• the room where the tractor will stand during the conservation period must be dry;
• it is advisable to place the minitractor in a special storage case;
• Before carrying out the preservation procedure, it is necessary to rinse the unit thoroughly;
• Be sure to drain the oil first.

Operating rules

The user manual states that in order to avoid damage to some parts, you should not do the following:

• subject equipment to excessive load;
• use the vehicle for other purposes;
• turn off the engine at high speeds;
• fill in the wrong type of oil;
• do not carry out maintenance;
• carry passengers.

The official safety and operating manual KMZ-012 can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s official website.

Causes of malfunctions and ways to eliminate them

The most common problems and breakdowns of KMZ-012:

• reduction in engine power;
• significant increase in gasoline consumption;
• black smoke when starting the engine;
• the motor is experiencing severe overheating;
• there is some noise when starting up;
• oil leaks;
• failure of the control system.

Let's look at the causes and solutions to the most common breakdowns.

Not enough torque passes through the clutch:

• the pedal has slipped (it needs to be adjusted);
• the discs are seriously worn out (they need to be replaced, you can do this yourself);
• discs and fasteners stick (you need to check the fastenings and, if necessary, lubricate them).

Control of attachments is not available:

• insufficient amount of oil (needs to be added);
• the lift system pump is turned off (it must be turned on);
• The hydraulic system fuse is not working (replace or repair).

The mini tractor does not brake well:

• the pedal is not in the correct position (adjust it);
• The pad is worn out (it needs to be replaced).

The gearbox gets very hot:

• the bearing or gear clearance has become too small (adjust the parts);
• little oil (add).

Cabin model

This tractor is supplied to the open market by the manufacturer. That is, it initially does not have a cabin. For performing work in the summer, this option, of course, is quite good. But this model is often used in winter. Of course, it is not particularly comfortable to carry out work without additional protection at this time of year. However, the farmer can purchase an additional cabin for this tractor, which is heated, at any time.

Actually, the operator’s workplace itself in the KMZ-012 model is equipped with a modern adjustable spring seat. The control panel with all sensors is located directly in front of the driver.

Device Features

From the moment the KMZ-012 minitractor was introduced, the manufacturer decided not to make any changes or modifications to the design. The chassis also includes a front wheel axle that looks like a swinging beam. This element also has a rigid suspension. The tractor uses a four-by-two wheel arrangement and a variable-width track, which is especially convenient when operating in a confined working space. The model can be equipped with two types of mounted mechanisms, the first of which provides the ability to shift the working unit to the right by a maximum of 100 millimeters. The capabilities of the second mechanism make it possible to shift the used unit in both directions relative to the power unit.

Disc-type wheel brakes, which are located in the housing of a single-stage gearbox, are responsible for braking the equipment. Good traction characteristics are provided by a gear manual transmission, which includes 4 forward gears and 2 reverse gears. The transmission is equipped with a dry single-plate friction clutch that is in continuous contact at all times. The gearbox is designed for traction characteristics, respectively, the maximum forward speed is 15.18 kilometers per hour, and the reverse one is 4.49 kilometers per hour. Although this indicator is quite good for this segment.

The hydraulic system of the KMZ-012 minitractor operates by engine drive and has two dependent-type power take-off shafts and a spool-type hydraulic distributor.

The equipment can be equipped with a sun visor or a lightweight cabin. As standard, the minitractor is equipped with a soft driver's seat and an adjustable steering column.

In addition to wide functionality and versatility, this model also has another significant advantage, which is high maintainability and ease of maintenance. Similar models often cause some difficulties when troubleshooting certain problems, when the same machine is very clear and simple. The fuel tank, as well as the battery, are located under the driver's seat, which can recline.

Other important features characterizing the mini tractor are:

1. Excellent maneuverability when operating on sites with small working space.
2. Wide range of optional attachments, mounted both front and rear.
3. The power unit used has not only increased reliability, but also efficiency.
4. Despite its very simple design, the equipment has a high level of safety and comfort.

Cabin

As standard, our hero is supplied by the manufacturer without a cab. This option is quite suitable for working in the summer. If you plan to work in winter, for an additional fee you can install a metal, heated cabin with a reliable frame that ensures safety.

The operator's workplace is equipped with a sprung driver's seat, which can be adjusted. Directly in front of the driver there is a control panel with all the sensors necessary for operation. An adjustable steering column is installed in the center of the panel. The fuel tank and batteries are located under the folding seat.

Dimensions:

• The structural length of the mini tractor is 1970 millimeters.
• The total width of the body is 960 millimeters.
• Height without roof - 1970 millimeters.
• Height with roof - 2040 millimeters.
• The structural length of the mini tractor (with mounted attachment) is 2310 millimeters.
• The total width of the body (with the mounted attachment) is 960 millimeters.
• The total height (with the mounted unit installed) is 2040 millimeters.
• Agrotechnical clearance - 300 millimeters.
• The smallest track width of the front wheels is 700 millimeters.
• The smallest track width of the rear wheels is 700 millimeters.
• The maximum track width of the front wheels is 900 millimeters.
• The maximum track width of the rear wheels is 900 millimeters.

Tractor KMZ-012: operating instructions

Performing production tasks on this model should, of course, comply with certain rules. For example, when working with the front suspension, the rear suspension must be set to the transport position, and vice versa. Before starting to operate the tractor, you should:

• check all nut and bolt connections;
• check the oil level and add it if necessary;
• lubricate hinges and components;
• fill the tractor with coolant and fuel;
• check tire pressure;
• check the battery and wire connections.

Run-in

Before starting operation, it is necessary to carry out a break-in. This is a set of measures that significantly improve the performance of the engine, allowing all major components to break in. During starting starts, observe the engine. It should work smoothly, without interruptions and unnecessary noise. Make sure there are no oil or fuel leaks.

The manufacturer recommends using SAE 10W30 oil, and it must be changed in accordance with the table given in the user manual.

At the first stage of running-in, the engine starts at low speeds and without load. Such work lasts for 50-75 hours. After this period, the tractor can be used with a load. During the entire break-in period, all fasteners and bolted connections must be checked.

The power take-off shaft is worked on first at idle, and then at low speeds with minor deviations for 5-10 minutes.

What do consumers think about this model?

The machine operators had an excellent opinion about this technique. The KMZ-012 tractor has earned mostly good reviews from farmers. Consumers consider its main advantage to be cost-effectiveness. The fuel consumption of this model is less than that of many other similar ones.

Farmers attribute the advantages of KMZ-012 to its ease of management. Many people believe that even a teenager can handle this technique. Also the advantages of the model are:

• high safety indicators;
• versatility.

This model has earned very good reviews for its complete maintainability. If necessary, almost anyone with at least some knowledge of such equipment can repair it. Spare parts for KMZ-012 are also quite easy to find.

Of course, many people consider its relatively low cost to be an advantage of this tractor. Farmers mainly attribute the only disadvantages of the model to the fact that its fuel tank is not very conveniently located - next to the battery.

Upgrade options

Mini tractor owners often correct factory defects and make their own changes to the equipment. The first and most common change is replacing the NSh-6 hydraulic pump with a more reliable and productive NSh-10.

The problem of low weight and frequent slipping was solved by installing dual wheels on the rear axle. This improvement increases the traction area of ​​the wheels with the coating, reduces the pressure on the soil and, as a result, slippage under heavy loads occurs less frequently. Such modernization is not provided by the manufacturer, so turning work is required to implement it.

Price

The tractor and all its modifications have been discontinued from mass production. This equipment is presented in quite a large number on the secondary market, so there will be no problems finding it. The cost of a mini tractor depends on the configuration and technical condition. On average they ask for 150-300,000 rubles.

The tractor is quite reliable.

Despite the fact that its engine and transmission can operate flawlessly for years, when purchasing a used version, it is recommended to pay attention to the following points: the general condition of the car, the presence of noise when the engine and transmission are running. The operation of the PTO and hydraulics must be checked

Tractor tires are quite expensive, so attention is paid to them.

Comparison with other models

In addition to the KMZ-012, there are several other mini-tractors on the Russian market today that are popular among farmers. For example, quite often the “Uralets” model is used for various types of agricultural and municipal work. Such tractors cost more than KMZ. But at the same time they are considered more productive. The engines on them are installed at 18-22 l/s. At the same time, the Uralets can be used both on wheels and on tracks.

Farmers can also purchase a Belarus 132N mini-tractor if they wish. The engine power of these inexpensive models is 18 l/s. This equipment costs a little less than KMZ-012. This tractor also earned good reviews from farmers. However, unfortunately, it has one serious drawback - the turning angle is too large.

Kurganmashzavod. History of creation

KMZ-012 appeared at the Kurgan Machine-Building Plant in 2002. I would like to remind you that KurganMash previously gained fame in the military field. It was here that the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) was produced and supplied to 23 countries around the world.

However, time does not stand still, and to make it easier for the plant to survive difficult times, the company’s management decided to launch production for the domestic market. What can be produced at a plant specializing in push-pull equipment?

Of course, a tractor that could compete with tractors from the Middle Kingdom. By the way, at that time, our citizens were faced with a very difficult task: where to get a miniature tractor that could do the same work as its adult colleagues, and at the same time its price would not be exorbitant.

This is where the aspirations of citizens and the capabilities of Kurganmash found their application. And after some time, the KMZ 012 Minitractor was born. As for other KMZ developments, these include trailers of various carrying capacities, construction and utility vehicles with all kinds of attachments, as well as the CHETRA TM-140 crawler-mounted vehicle.