The 701 Kirovets tractor is a high-power unit belonging to the high-performance class of second-generation equipment. It is designed to perform complex and labor-intensive types of work in construction and agriculture. The machine is the brainchild of the designers of the Kirov Tractor Manufacturing Enterprise. The first samples of equipment were released in early 1975. The production of these machines continued until 2002, and today it has been completely discontinued.
Purpose
"K701" is a heavy type of general purpose equipment. He is able to effectively perform the following types of work:
- processing of soil and plant soils over large areas;
- harvesting of agricultural crops;
- reclamation of wetlands;
- movement of construction materials;
- logging;
- loading and unloading various items;
- construction of embankments from soil;
- planning of construction sites;
- clearing rubble from construction waste;
- eliminating the consequences of natural disasters.
K 701 Kirovets
Loaders based on Kirovets, various modifications
The model in question is extremely multifunctional. It is often used to perform various tasks, including loading. Today the most popular modifications are:
- PF-1 – front-end loader;
- PF-1 – with a jaw grip of the “log loader” type;
- M-VK is a self-propelled vibrating roller.
K-701 type PF-1 can be used for front loading and logging work (if there is a jaw-type gripper).
The M-VK machine, which is a self-propelled vibratory roller, is in great demand today. It is used to level very large areas of soil - during the construction of airfields and other similar structures.
Specifications
The technical characteristics of the K 701 tractor are represented by the following values:
- operating weight - 11.45 tons;
- weight of the machine equipped with attachments - 13.8 tons;
- travel speed - 33.8 km/h;
- number of gears: 16 forward, 8 reverse;
- load capacity - 5.5 t;
- turning radius - 7.2 m;
- ford depth - 0.8 m;
- track width - 2.115 m;
- ground clearance - 0.43 m;
- fuel tank volume - 320 liters;
- dimensions: length - 6.82 m, width - 2.85 m, height - 3.68 m.
In order to have a general idea of the car, you can study the photo K 701 posted below:
Engine characteristics
The tractor is equipped with a twelve-cylinder diesel engine YaMZ-240B. Its rated power reaches 220 kW, and fuel consumption is 60 l/h. More detailed characteristics of the unit are presented below:
- working volume - 22.2 l;
- cylinder diameter - 130 mm;
- piston stroke - 140 mm;
- rotation speed - 2100 rpm.
Be sure to read: Tractor VTZ 30ssh
Cabin features
The tractor cabin is designed for two workplaces and has a two-door design. The ventilation system and heating device are responsible for climate control. The interior is spacious and quite sealed, it reliably protects the operator from dust and excessive noise. The driver's workplace is equipped with a comfortable seat and convenient controls. It is possible to adjust the steering column and change the location of the pedals and seat. The tractor cabin is equipped with mirrors, wipers and headlights.
Cabin of tractor K 701 Kirovets
Device Features
- The design of the Kirovets K-701 tractor is simple and uncomplicated. Experienced Soviet engineers were faced with the task of developing a high-tech machine, without any aesthetics. The main thing in this tractor is power, high strength and geometric maneuverability. It must be admitted that the model in question was one of the few tractors of its time that had a rotating frame. Thanks to this, it was possible to achieve good maneuverability. In addition, maneuverability was also improved due to its small dimensions. In the front of the tractor there is a metal bumper, into which round headlights and turn signals are mounted. In the rear part there are lights and the main towbar, which is structurally similar to the hitches that are used in other modifications of the K-700 family.
- Large wheels with the same dimensions for the rear and front axles were of no small importance for the sake of cross-country ability - this arrangement is very unusual and unusual for classic tractors. But it was thanks to it that it was possible to provide excellent off-road performance. We also note a ground clearance of 440 mm, high approach and departure angles, minimal body overhangs and strong protection for the engine compartment. All this adds confidence in overcoming obstacles, including due to permanent all-wheel drive. The wheels have an optimal coefficient of traction, which reduces the risk of wheel digging, for example, when driving on muddy ground.
- The cabin of the Kirovets K-701 tractor is made quite simply, but at the same time it is distinguished by its thoughtfulness and the absence of ergonomic miscalculations. The cabin is so spacious that two people can fit in it. The cabin contains the most necessary elements of comfort. There is no ventilation system or cabin heating, but the controls are located quite conveniently and are at hand. By the standards of USSR times, the cabin of the Kirovets K-701 tractor is an example of minimalism, simplicity and ease of use. We especially note the wide glass area, which provides all-round visibility, and the “captain’s” seat allows you to confidently look around.
- The K-701 modification is an updated K-700 tractor. The improved machine has a deeply redesigned technical part. The power plant is a 12-cylinder unit with a cast iron block. Its power is 300 horsepower. The engine is turbocharged. The torque is 1240 N/m, which is achieved already at 1900 rpm. To install the engine, the designers provided a safe place - the front rotating frame. Rubber shock absorbers are used to dampen vibrations and sound vibrations. The motor has proven to be quite reliable. This can be seen judging by the number of different machines in which it was installed. For example, YaMZ-240 has proven itself well on Belaz dump trucks with a lifting capacity of 32 tons. The engine has a special V-shaped cylinder arrangement. In fact, this unit is a modified version of the 8-cylinder YaMZ-238. This engine received four additional cylinders with a changed camber angle. In addition, engineers installed a new, more durable crankshaft. The double-row arrangement of cylinders with a 75-degree slope provided optimal center-to-axle weight distribution and improved stability even on uneven roads. In addition, the use of lightweight materials made it possible to reduce the engine weight to 1,790 kg. The engine is equipped with a 32-liter oil tank, as well as a 35-liter coolant tank. The latest modernized version of this engine received two K-36 turbochargers.
- Despite the lack of aerodynamics as such, the tractor demonstrates good dynamic characteristics. Thus, the car is capable of reaching 45 km/h, which allows you to confidently navigate city traffic. The speed in reverse gear is 24 km/h. Fuel consumption per hour is 50 liters.
- The Kirovets K-701 tractor received a gearbox from the K-700 model, but with some changes. The transmission has 16 forward and 8 reverse speeds with spur gears. During the transition to subsequent speeds, it was possible to prevent loss of power thanks to the clutches. As for the chassis, the front axle is represented by a dependent leaf spring suspension with a balancer axle. We also note the pneumatic braking system, which is recognized as more reliable than the pneumatic-hydraulic brakes used previously. To strengthen the structure, a compressor, a pneumatic distributor and a buffer receiver are used.
- Kirovets K-701 received a variety of modifications. For example, the K-701M version was distinguished by a super-powerful by those standards YaMZ-8423 engine, which, with a volume of 17 liters, developed over 330 horsepower. Please note that this is 10% more than the more popular YaMZ-240.
- The tractor is very durable and repairable. Unlike foreign cars, it can be serviced even in the field, if you have the necessary tools. Thanks to this, the car remains in demand to this day.
Device
"Kirovets K 701" is based on two movable semi-frames. This made it possible to increase the cross-country ability and maneuverability of the tractor. The main structural components, such as the cabin, engine, tanks for fuel and lubricants and gearbox, are mounted on the front half-frame. The drive axle and attachments are installed in the rear segment of the machine. Installing special tires on the wheels made it possible to replace the tractor's spring elements. The unit has a manual gearbox that allows you to change speeds on the go.
Modifications
Despite the fact that the K 701 always coped well with production tasks, the machine nevertheless began to become obsolete and the designers of the Kirov enterprise decided to modernize it. And as a result of technical research, the K 701 m was born. The tractor received an improved cabin, hydraulic front axle suspension and a five-stage air purifier.
The designers managed to reduce fuel consumption and slightly increase the performance level of the unit. And all this thanks to the new YaMZ-8423 diesel engine installed in the equipment.
In 1987, a more advanced Kirovets model was created - K 701 M1. The vehicle underwent significant changes, after which it began to be used as a tractor with increased payload capacity.
The tractor was equipped with an engine with a power of 350 horsepower, which made it possible to use trailers weighing up to 40.0 tons. This type of equipment has become widely used in construction and the mining industry.
Advantages and disadvantages
“Kirovets” has many advantages, among which it is necessary to highlight:
- good speed and dynamics;
- excellent traction performance;
- solid load capacity;
- long period of operation on one tank;
- good handling;
- multifunctionality;
- flexible speed setting;
- ease of maintenance and repair;
- high level of safety for the driver.
The equipment also has disadvantages: the machine feels insecure in areas with difficult terrain, there are problems when starting the unit in sub-zero temperatures, the heavy weight of the tractor contributes to damage to the top layer of vegetation.
Price and owner reviews
Taking into account the year of manufacture, technical condition, and equipment, the cost of the car can vary between 370-500 thousand rubles. The K-701M modification can be purchased on the primary market for 1.2-1.5 million rubles.
Equipment owners note both positive and negative qualities of the model.
Nikolay, 55 years old, Irkutsk region
When purchasing equipment, we chose Kirovets and were not mistaken. The tractor does all the hard work in the plant. During operation it showed its best side and has been in service for almost 4 years. The engine starts easily in any weather. The machine is maneuverable, but does not always work in difficult places due to its long, convex front. Another disadvantage is the lack of chassis suspension.
Maxim, 38 years old, Vologda
This tractor is more of an industrial vehicle than a garden one. It cannot be used as a mini tractor for a summer residence. The strongman is large in size and weight. Ground pressure is high. When transporting or moving bulk materials, transporting and working in large fields, it is an indispensable assistant. I bought it from a neighbor in terrible condition. Rebuilt, changed the engine, fuel system, welded and painted the cabin. The car is powerful and decent.
Reviews
Today, many users of the K 701 tractor share their impressions of the machine and leave their reviews. Here are some of them:
- The car is powerful and reliable, like all equipment produced during the Soviet period. The tractor is unpretentious in terms of fuel quality and inexpensive to repair. The unit also has some shortcomings: a bulky engine, poor machine balance and poor wheel grip on the ground.
- The tractor has a high traction force and low fuel consumption. It is easy to operate and maintain. The machine interacts well with most attachments. The disadvantages include the following: the oil filter often gets clogged, problems with the hydraulic system periodically arise, and there are also difficulties in finding the necessary spare parts and components.
Restored K 701 Kirovets
Attachments
The following mounted, semi-mounted and trailed mechanisms can be attached to the K-701 tractor:
- plows;
- OP-12 and OPT-3-5 implements for pre-sowing and non-moldboard tillage;
- wide-cut units RPK-7.2 and AKP-5;
- FP-4.2 milling cutter for pastures;
- rippers;
- flat cutters;
- MIK-1.4 machine for removing stones;
- snow blower;
- non-motorized grain harvester;
- cultivators;
- peelers;
- couplings;
- harrows;
- seeders.
The implements are installed using the following parts:
- attachments with clamps, rods and levers;
- hydraulic hook;
- trailer bracket;
- connection points for electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems from aggregated machines.
When working with additional equipment, it is necessary to monitor the tire pressure and avoid overloading them. The pressure in the front tires, depending on the work performed, is 0.14-0.17 MPa, in the rear tires - 0.11-0.16 MPa.
What can be included with
The standard Kirovets kit includes a loading bucket and a dozer blade. Additionally, the machine can be equipped with the following types of working parts:
- plow;
- jaw grip;
- hydraulic hammer;
- cutters;
- cultivator;
- seeder;
- towing device.
Be sure to read: Technical characteristics of the SMD-14 engine
At the customer's request, the tractor can be equipped with additional tires, a heating system for fuels and lubricants, an air conditioner and a heating device.
Wheels of the Kirovets tractor
The wheel used on the K-701 has a unique design. It is thanks to him that you can overcome even problematic areas of the terrain without any difficulty. The wheel assembly consists of the following main parts:
- tires;
- cameras;
- rim;
- drove;
- water-air valve;
- nuts;
- pressing.
The tire tread is very deep and has an aggressive shape.
It makes it possible to process wet virgin soil without any difficulty - even getting stuck on the K-701 model is extremely problematic.
Flaws
The large mass of the tractor disrupts the structure of the field during agricultural work. Despite the fact that the K-701 is equipped with low-pressure tires, the designers were unable to get rid of this problem.
The technical characteristics of the machine indicate that the equipment can operate in conditions of ground inclination up to 18 degrees. This is not entirely true. When working on uneven ground, the machine was observed to tip over on its side.
The engine mounted on the front half-frame in some cases makes it difficult for the vehicle to pass. In order to start the engine in winter, you need to warm it up for at least 30-40 minutes, and this is with a cold start system.
But even significant shortcomings do not affect the popularity of this car. This equipment has been the most popular in the domestic agricultural machinery market for over 30 years.
So, we found out what features the K-701 tractor has. Despite the fact that the St. Petersburg plant stopped production of the model in 2000, this equipment can still be found at many agricultural enterprises. “Kirovets” surprises with its reliability and maneuverability. And on the secondary market it can be purchased at a price from 350 thousand to 1 million 400 thousand rubles. The successor to the 701st (K-704) is sold for 3 million 950 thousand rubles. These are 2016-17 models.
Engine
The K-701 tractor was equipped with a four-stroke 12-cylinder YaMZ-240B engine with compression ignition. The diesel engine is equipped with a combined dry two-stage air purification system and a closed cooling system with forced liquid circulation and a compensation circuit. The engine is started by an electric starter. The machine is also equipped with preheating and automatic fan control systems. Thermal conditions are adjusted using thermostats and a radiator curtain.
Maximum power at PTO at rated crankshaft speed
Specific fuel consumption at maximum power at PTO
Transmission efficiency from the diesel output shaft to the PTO shaft at maximum power at the PTO (without gearbox)
Rated motor power
220.6 kW (300 hp)
Number of fuel tanks
Total volume of fuel tanks
Maintenance
| Tractor life before the first major overhaul | 8,000 operating hours |
| Engine life before the first major overhaul | 8,000 operating hours |
| Transmission life before the first major overhaul | 8,000 operating hours |
| Lifetime of the supporting system before the first major overhaul | full service life of the tractor |
| Tractor service life | 10 years |
Dimensions K-701
| Ground clearance under brackets with static tire radius (800 mm) | 430 mm |
| Tractor track | 2 115 mm |
| Smallest turning radius following the outer wheel track with the rear axle turned off | 7 200 mm |
| Tractor base | 3 200 mm |
| Fording depth | 800 mm |
| Overall width | 2850(+50)(-50) mm |
| Overall length with attachment in transport position | 7400(+50)(-50) mm |
| Overall length without attachment | 6382(+50)(-50) mm |
| Overall height | 3685(+40)(-40) mm |
| Limit angles of ascent and descent on dry ground | 18° |
