Kamaz cab: dimensions, inside and outside views, raising the cab

Every driver of a Kama car dreamed of the time when KAMAZ would be able not only with power, but also with comfort to compete with foreign truck manufacturers. And every carrier was sure of the lack of inspiration and modern trends in the Kama fleet of long-haul tractors.

The plant began creating a tractor capable of replacing and seriously transforming the latest KAMAZ 5460 model back in 2007, announcing a competition to create a design for a new truck cab. The main goal of releasing a new series of cars, of course, is to integrate the latest generation of engines from an imported manufacturer: the 5490 model has become the first link in the chain of Euro-5 environmental class engines. But comfort has become an equally important task for Chelny developers.

The winner of the competition was the DMEC enterprise, which is part of the KIA Motors group of companies and belongs to the Hyundai corporation, part of the shares of which was owned for some time by the Japanese corporation Mitsubishi, but both were eventually bought by the German giant Daimler. Therefore, we can say with confidence that developers from world-class automakers worked on the creation of a new tractor.

Cabin KAMAZ 5490

The engine and axle of the new KAMAZ were created by engineers from Daimler Trucks, and Russian designers thought about the cabin. The development process cost the Kama Automobile Plant more than a billion rubles. The prototype was first presented for viewing in 2011 in two versions: Mercedes Axor and the development of Korean partners.

There is nothing wrong with the fact that the prototype was the Aksor cabin, which has been produced since 2001. Compared to the familiar old one, the 5490 cabin opens a new era of comfort and design for the Kama manufacturer. In addition, it was well modified by Kama engineers, and the designers even managed to give it the stateliness of a full-fledged flagship tractor. In general, the new KAMAZ 5490 is very different from the Mercedes-Benz Axor model, despite many similarities.

Comfort

The first thing that catches your eye about the new cabin is its impressive size. The external width, excluding mirrors and wings, is 2300 mm, the length is 2250 mm, and the internal height, even of the low-roof version, is 1510 mm. The high roof gives a headroom of 1910 mm, and the full width of our own design is 2500 mm.

The modern look is attractive and aerodynamic. The material of the bumper, running boards and fenders is high-quality and durable plastic, the placement is higher than that of a Mercedes. The bumper is equipped with four steps with a special anti-slip coating, one of which is inside the passenger compartment. There are handrails under the windshield for its maintenance, next to the door there are vertical handrails, the door opens quite wide.

The cabin is attached to the frame with a soft four-point air suspension - an alternative to rigid German spring struts. The seats in the cabin, assembled in Elabuga, are also on air suspension, which is adjustable with a lot of settings. The armrests are folding, the seats are comfortable, the steering column is adjustable for reach and tilt. To the right of the driver there is an abundance of niches and shelves, two cup holders.

Above the windshield there is a radio, digital tachograph and lockable storage compartments. Behind the seats are two sleeping bunks, allowing drivers to rest at the same time, while the top bunk is foldable. From the bottom shelf you can control the lighting, the sunroof drive and the pre-start liquid heater.

In addition - air conditioning, cruise control with steering wheel controls and power windows.

Stormy finish

At the beginning of September 1988, assembly of the flagship cabin began in the experimental workshop of the Scientific and Technical Center. By this time, all large and medium panels and their amplifiers were already ready. The cabin base (floor panel) had almost no stamped parts and was therefore one of the first to be completed. They began installing cockpit panels on it.

Perhaps for the first time in domestic bodybuilding practice, I insisted that they do without a conductor, and connect all the main panels (two side panels assembled, the rear, the front panel and the roof) using simple diagonal struts and auxiliary devices. Since all these panels were taken from the same layout and adjusted each time with a measuring machine, I expected a very high degree of accuracy in matching the panel joint lines. The result exceeded expectations. The ones who were most surprised were the old and experienced body workers.

The cabin panels were clearly in contact with each other, and the distortions and size variations in such a huge cabin did not exceed 5–7 mm. The separately assembled doors fit precisely into the openings with the specified gap. The main problem was caused by the windshield - it was made according to our shape at the Salavat glass factory. The plant did not have sufficient experience and technology for manufacturing huge triplex glass with conical ends on the sides. From 15 manufactured glasses, we were able to choose the best and, with the help of a Teroson representative, we glued a windshield on a domestic truck for the first time.

Throughout September and October we had to work simultaneously at two sites: at our own plant and in the experimental workshop of the Scientific and Technical Center. Work was in full swing in all directions. We assembled interior parts, made tail parts and a roof fairing. In the STC workshops, five chassis were laid down at once, one of which - a truck tractor - was used for the flagship cabin. As stipulated by the contract, by August 30 it was possible to complete the manufacture of all the main parts of the cockpit tail, including the upper fairing and flaps, wings, bumper, etc. Painting and assembly of the cockpit on the chassis was completed on October 14–15.

It is impossible to describe the state of fatigue, delight and satisfaction that all members of the brigade probably experienced. Just before the ceremonial departure of the millionth KamAZ from the assembly line, where our car was supposed to be launched next, we conducted several test runs of the tractor and trailer. One of the races was memorable for the fact that S.S. got into the cockpit. Yakubov, and we went for speed tests on a new deserted road. I wanted to check the noise characteristics in the cabin and aerodynamic noise. The road train was accelerated to more than 100 km/h, I lowered a small window in the door and did not feel a significant increase in noise from the incoming air. The fine-tuning of large-scale models in the wind tunnel has made its presence felt.

The smooth ride on the four-point air suspension was incomparable to the standard cab. At that moment she seemed simply perfect. In general, everyone was happy. True, due to the insufficiently rigid frame, excessive lateral rocking of the cabin was observed. But this, of course, could be corrected in the future, like many other minor and major shortcomings characteristic of any experimental work.

Disadvantages of the new KAMAZ cab

However, drivers who managed to evaluate the quality of the new cabin noticed nuances that cause minor inconvenience. Thus, access to the radiator is available only through a partially opening panel, and there is only one toolbox, and it is not a good size.

The lack of a visor or curtain on the driver's door, the small width of the sleeping bag with a good length - 2000 mm, steps that catch when exiting, small glove compartments and wind noise at speed - that's the whole list of disadvantages. Drivers have other questions about the suspension or transmission of the car, fortunately, it’s impossible to find fault with the engine - the Mercedes engine is too good.

The result was a good tractor, capable of competing even with foreign cars. Thousands of truck drivers in our country did not even dream of such a level of comfort in a domestic car just a couple of years ago.

Engine

Let's take a closer look at the power plant. As mentioned above, from the beginning of serial production the model was equipped with Cummins diesel engines. The features of this motor are high service life, ease of maintenance and quiet operation.

1. The KamAZ-4308 power unit has 4 cylinders. Torque is 502 Nm. Maximum power reaches 140 horsepower. The internal combustion engine complies with the Euro-2 environmental class. This type of engine is equipped with a Bosch fuel pump, which is recognized as one of the most reliable components. Engine power is provided by an intercooler and a powerful turbine.
2. The engine marked ISBe turned out to be more productive. This is a new prototype power plant with 6 working cylinders. At the time of its release, it complied with the international environmental standard Euro-5. The fuel system of the unit operates via Common Rail technology.

Maintenance of this engine has become more convenient due to an increase in the wall thickness of each cylinder. At the bottom of the unit there is a special tile made of durable steel. It protects the cylinder block as well as the sump. Its presence added rigidity to KamAZ 4308 and significantly reduced noise.

The fan, compressor and water pump began to work more productively due to the poly-V-type belt. Its tension occurs automatically; it is also worth mentioning the excellent heating of the power plant, which was provided by the viscous coupling.

KAMAZ 65206 and KAMAZ 65207

The family of modern vehicles with a new cab was continued by the 65206 truck tractor and 65207 flatbed truck, released in 2015 following the first-born of the merger between Mercedes and KAMAZ. The cabins of these models are distinguished by a low roof and one berth.

Other models

The next models were KAMAZ 65801 and KAMAZ 65802 dump trucks with a modification without a bed. The series was completed by the KAMAZ 65806 truck tractor with a full-fledged cabin with a sleeping bag and a low roof.

Today the line of new models has been completed by KAMAZ 65209 - a completely new vehicle with a 6x2 wheel arrangement, with a middle drive axle and a lifting rear axle during transportation and movement without load.

At first glance, the cabin is identical to the cabin of the flagship 5490. But this is only at first glance. The location of the buttons has changed, becoming more convenient; instrument readings and indicators are equally visible at any time of the day, regardless of whether the dashboard is exposed to sunlight. The advanced cabin is designed to ensure that nothing distracts the driver from the road.

Changes in modification 5490 NEO did not affect the cabin, but modification 54901, presented in 2022, promises to be much more successful than its predecessor. The design of the cabin has been changed in connection with the desire to move away from the prototype cabin of 2001 and is based on the design of the Mercedes-Benz Actros without compromising functionality and convenience.

The cabin height has increased by 200 mm, the truck's headlights are made in the high and low beam compartments with halogens and LEDs. The ladder was almost completely moved inside the cabin, only the first step remained outside, the engine tunnel disappeared from the floor, the gearbox control knob is made in the form of a joystick under the steering wheel on the right side.

A refrigerator and a button to start the engine appeared. The control panel has been modernized and has become more optional. In addition, there is even a sun protection curtain on the door. Drivers can leave reviews about the merits of the improved model today: the car has been produced since 2022 and still remains cheaper than foreign analogues in its class.

Chassis

The model became the best domestic truck with two axles. The credit for this is the revolutionary design of the KamAZ-4308 frame, which accommodates new side members with a constant cross-section. They make it possible to design different versions of the truck wheelbase. Now the car is produced in two versions:

• 420 cm;
• 480 cm.

So far, the configuration of the Kama plant is inferior to the leading representatives of the market in the choice of versions, since other manufacturers produce a number of different types of base.

The car's suspension has light parabolic springs. Thanks to a length of almost 2 meters, the designers managed to achieve significant improvements in ride comfort. The suspension design is simple, but requires attention. This unit can be repaired well only if the elements are periodically lubricated.

The suspensions are secured with brackets with special rubber hangers. This allows you to completely eliminate the unpleasant sound made by the springs when the car moves on an uneven road.

The latest versions of KamAZ-4308 have acquired some fresh innovations. In particular, the air suspension turned out to be most useful. The mechanism is electronically controlled and can raise or lower the vehicle body by 10 cm. The pneumatic system works best when the truck is under critical load.

Spare parts for Mercedes KAMAZ cabin

The AUTOALFA group of companies is engaged in wholesale sales of spare parts for trucks of various brands and modifications, including the sale of spare parts for the cabin and other components of the KAMAZ 5490. Manufacturers directly supplying parts for sale to LLC GC AUTOALFA:

• AUGER Autotechnik, Germany;
• Daimler AG, Germany;
• STELLOX ATH&S GmbH, Germany;
• Sampa Otomotive AS, Türkiye;
• PE Automotive, Germany.

You can buy spare parts if they are in stock or by pre-ordering from managers by calling +7 (8552) 927-001 or through the online store.

checkpoint

The more powerful the engine is installed on the model, the more reliable the transmission must be chosen. This rule especially applies to diesel units. Therefore, the company initially equipped the model with a standard gearbox labeled 141. It was tested on several modifications and demonstrated increased reliability.

In the future, the Kama Automobile Plant plans to stop producing its own transmissions. The development and installation of new gearboxes on KamAZ-4308 will be carried out by a new division created on the basis of the domestic plant and the German manufacturer ZF. Modifications of recent years are already equipped with gearboxes developed by this foreign brand.

For people using a truck as a road train, the company offers the optimal transmission option ZF9S109. It is designed for nine stages and can be easily repaired. The gearbox is already used on many medium-duty models of famous European-made trucks.

For trim levels that are equipped with power plants designated 4ISBe, a 6S700 transmission is provided. Motors of type 6ISBe are equipped with a 6S1000 gearbox.

Salon

The interior decoration of the KamAZ-5490 can be carried out to the extent that the driver needs to feel comfortable inside the cabin. The moral and physical condition of the driver during the trip depends on the comfort of being in the car.

You can perform tuning with your own hands in the following areas:

1. Finishing of the internal surface with special materials that absorb noise and vibration, creating an effective thermal insulation layer. It is better to upholster (upholster) the interior with fabric that is easy to clean and does not absorb dust.
2. Installation of a new comfortable chair with air suspension, settings and armrests. For upholstery, it is better to use natural materials (leather, suede, tarpaulin) or their synthetic analogues (Alcantara, denim). With such a change it will be convenient even in the KamAZ “Selkhoznik”, which has a minimum set of amenities.
3. Making an extra bed. This option is necessary for model 6520 and similar ones, when there is a need to rest directly in the car. The shelf is removable or folding with double folding.
4. Installation of an upper shelf for personal belongings, spare parts and documentation. Considering the height of the KamAZ-53212 cab, the shelf can be made high, with several partitions, doors or sides. After installation, the shelf is upholstered to match the interior decoration or made in a contrasting color.
5. Replacing the steering block. A part is installed with the ability to adjust the length and tilt of the column. The wheel is covered with smooth or textured material. A useful addition is the installation of a unit with an airbag.

The lighting system plays an important role during travel and relaxation. Using LED lamps of various wattages, bright, outdoor and emergency lighting is created.

Do-it-yourself KamAZ interior trim

The issue of replacing the trim in the cabin is not only practical, but also aesthetic. The presence of new upholstery not only makes it more attractive, but also creates additional comfort.

This simple and inexpensive operation will allow you to change the cabin interior of such classic models as KamAZ 55111 and 4308 and even an army all-terrain vehicle based on the 4310 beyond recognition. The photo below shows a variant of such tuning of a classic KamAZ cabin.

The reason for replacing the old casing may not only be its complete wear and tear. Such abrasions are especially noticeable in the area of ​​the armrests, seats and headrests. Also, the reason for replacing the upholstery may be the consequences of an accident or the simple desire of the new owner to remake the car to his liking.

In addition, in the process of replacing old casing, the following measures can be taken:

• Thorough cleaning of the cabin from dust and traces of dirt accumulated under the casing;
• Inspection of the body for corrosion and mechanical damage;
• Creation of an additional layer of heat and sound insulation.

After completely removing the old upholstery and removing all the elements of the plywood frame on which it was attached, the driver has access to the most inaccessible corners of the cabin. Removing traces of contamination can be done either manually or using a vacuum cleaner.

Before installing an additional layer of insulation, you can carry out anti-corrosion treatment on all metal surfaces. For these purposes, you can use a material on which a layer of additional thermal insulation will simultaneously be glued.

The truck interior lining process consists of the following steps:

• Removing old upholstery;
• Dismantling the plywood sheathing frame;
• Removing traces of contamination inside the cabin;
• Upholstery of all elements of the removed frame with new fabric;
• Anti-corrosion treatment of the interior;
• Pasting the cabin with a layer of insulation or insulating material;
• Frame installation;
• Installation of lighting fixtures and other elements.

Price

The basic configuration of the new model costs almost 2 million rubles. Additional mechanisms and systems can significantly increase the price of a truck.

Used versions can be purchased on the secondary market for 750-900 thousand rubles. The price of a used option greatly depends on the condition of the components. As a rule, most suspension elements and components will have already been replaced at the time of purchase.

A detailed review of the vehicle shows that KamAZ-4308 is one of the best options for carriers with a limited budget. The car is designed in a traditional design and has many functional innovations.