Minitractor KMZ-012: technical characteristics

As you know, the Soviet Union has always been famous for “large-scale” projects. Almost always, huge machines, large machines, and impressive computing units were manufactured. At the same time, they forgot that miniature equipment can play a significant role in the economy and the technical characteristics of the KMZ-012 tractor prove that large parameters are not the main thing. In the future, it is planned to assign the tasks of agriculture and construction to miniature equipment. The Kurgan Machine-Building Plant managed to present a completely different type of mini-equipment, where the characteristics of the KMZ-012 tractor were in no way inferior to their foreign counterparts.

Minitractor KMZ-012 without cabin

To make people “love” the technology, it was necessary to find interesting ways and ideas, since the market at that time was filled with Chinese models and manufacturers from the Middle Kingdom forced Russian mechanisms out of the domestic market. The plant succeeded in this due to the introduction of attachments to the KMZ-012 mini-tractor, which were produced at the same plant in Kurgan.

History of the creation of the KMZ-012 tractor

As mentioned above, KMZ-012 was produced at Kurganmashzavod. The enterprise is famous primarily for its military products. Or rather, infantry fighting vehicles, which are in service in 23 countries around the world.

The plant began its activities as an enterprise for the production of heavy crane equipment in 1950. And in 1954 it switched to the production of tracked army tractors, which were also used for civilian purposes, for example, in geological exploration.

In 1966, the government decided to begin production of infantry fighting vehicles or BMP-1 at the plant. Large-scale re-equipment of the plant and construction of new facilities began. In 1967, the first infantry fighting vehicles rolled off the production lines of the enterprise. New BMP-2s were released in 1983, and since 1987, more advanced BMP-3s.

Today, OJSC Kurganmashzavod is a major mechanical engineering center with the latest equipment, a full production cycle and testing grounds for products. In addition to military equipment, the plant also produces a number of civilian vehicles.

Among the latest civilian developments, we can note the CHETRA TM-140 tracked transport vehicle, which can be equipped with various equipment. Multifunctional construction and utility vehicles with various attachments, lifting capacity of 1000 and 800 kg. Car trailers.

As for the hero of our review, the KMZ-012 tractor, its production began in 2002. In 2005 it was included in the list of “100 best goods of Russia”. Currently, unfortunately, the production of these machines has been stopped.

Manufacturer

The appearance of the KMZ-012 mini-tractor is due to the engineers of the Kurgan Machine Plant. For an enterprise that was previously unknown to a wide range of consumers, the equipment became a debut model, positioned as a simple and practical universal assistant for performing agricultural work of varying complexity. Previously, the Kurgan Machinery Plant was known exclusively for the production of military equipment, in particular, infantry fighting vehicles, which were supplied to more than 23 world countries.

The tractor was first introduced in 2002 and soon won success among consumers not only in Russia, but also in Poland, Romania, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, etc. The management of the organization made the decision to produce agricultural equipment in difficult times for it - times of crisis when products sold for export were not able to cover the costs of their production. Thus, a universal domestic unit appeared, which competed with equipment from the Middle Kingdom, since it performed all the same functions as its foreign “colleagues”, but was much cheaper.

Transmission

The very first modification of the car was equipped with five forward gears and one reverse gear. Later, the manufacturer rebuilt the gearbox according to this principle: four front and two rear. Modern tractor models have a six-speed manual gearbox with a two-stage main gear - cylindrical and bevel.

The speed indicators of the unit are:

rear - 4.49 km/h,
front smallest - 1.42 km/h,
front working maximum - 6.82 km/h,
the front transport is the highest - 15.18 km/h.

The mini-tractor's transmission is also mechanical with a dry single-plate clutch, which engages a six-speed gearbox. This makes it possible for KMZ-012 to develop a forward speed of up to 15 km/h, a rear speed of up to 4.49 km/h.

In addition, the transmission includes:

brakes, which are located in the gearbox housing,
dry clutch friction clutch, through which torque is transmitted from the flywheel,
disc brake system.

The Kurganets is equipped with two power take-off shafts, which are necessary when working with attachments.

Tank volume and fuel consumption

KMZ-012 is available in four modifications, including the basic one. There is no significant difference between the models; the developers did not touch the dimensions of the vehicle and its weight. Kurganets was equipped with several models of motors, depending on the company that developed them. The volume of the fuel tank in the equipment is 20 liters, while the fuel consumption at rated power is equal depending on the type of engine:

"SK-12" - 335 g/kW, 248 g/hp. per hour of gasoline,
“V2Ch” - 258 g/kW, 190 g/hp. per hour of diesel fuel,
“VANGUARD 16НР 305447” - 381 g/kW, 280 g/hp. per hour of gasoline,
"HATZ 1D81Z" - 255 g/kW, 187.5 g/hp. per diesel hour.

Steering and brakes

The tractor is equipped with disc brakes located in the gearbox housing, operating in oil and powered by control pedals. In the depressed position, when the pedals are secured with a latch, the brakes are in the parking position. Separate braking is also possible.

The standard equipment does not include a driver's cab, but it can be purchased for an additional fee. The work area is equipped with a chair with springs that can be adjusted. In front of the operator there is a control panel with various sensors. In the central part of the panel there is a steering column that can be adjusted. Under the seat there is a fuel tank and batteries.

Chassis system

The running system of the Kurgan is built according to a 4 x 2 scheme, that is, the main wheels are the rear ones. KMZ-012 is a rear-wheel drive unit; a model with all-wheel drive has never been produced.

The front wheels, which are steered, have a smaller diameter and are fixed on a swinging beam, which acts as a bridge, which allows you to smoothly smooth out road unevenness when driving. The width of both wheels can, if necessary, be adjusted in two positions from 70 cm to 90 cm.

Hydraulic system

Considering the fact that the mini-tractor can use attachments, the manufacturer equipped it with two hydraulic attachments - front and rear, with a three-point fastening function. The front hydraulics ensure the machine moves to the right by 50-100 mm, the rear one moves to the right and left the same distance.

The front and rear suspension cylinders are adjusted using a hydraulic spool valve.

Technical characteristics of the KMZ-012 tractor

Performance indicators:

Class – 0.2;
Traction force – 2.1 kN;
Number of forward/reverse gears – 5/1 or 4/2;

Dimensions and weight:

Length without front linkage – 1972 mm;
Width – 960 mm;
Height with roof - 2040 mm, without roof - 1975 mm.
The track has two positions - 700 and 900 mm;
Agrotechnical clearance – 300 mm;
Weight ranges from 697-732 kg depending on the installed engine.

Tractor engine KMZ-012

The KMZ-012 tractor was produced in four modifications with different power plants. We propose to consider each of them in more detail.

Engine "SK-12"

This two-cylinder, gasoline, carburetor engine was installed on the base model of the tractor. It is air-cooled and has an in-line arrangement of cylinders. Homeland of “SK-12”, Kazakh enterprise “Power Units Plant”.

Power kW/hp – 8.82/12;
Torque – 24 Nm;
Gasoline consumption – 335 g/kW, 248 g/hp. at one o'clock;
Rated engine speed – 3100 rpm;
Weight – 49 kg.

Engine V2Ch 8.2/7.8

V2Ch engine, the brainchild of Chelyabinsk. But the difference from the SK-12 is that it is diesel, which, with the same power, gives it an advantage in traction and efficiency. The engine is two-cylinder, V-shaped, air-cooled.

Power kW/hp – 8.82/12;
Rated engine speed – 3000 rpm;
Diesel fuel consumption – 258 g/kW, 190 g/hp. at one o'clock.

Engine VANGUARD 16HP 305447

This is an American gasoline, 4-stroke engine of the famous Briggs & Stratton brand. The two v-shaped cylinders are air-cooled and have a carburetor fuel system.

Power kW/hp – 10.66/14.5;
Rated engine speed – 3000 rpm;
Fuel consumption – 381 g/kW, 280 g/hp. at one o'clock.

Engine HATZ 1D81Z

Like the previous engine, it is of American origin, but it is produced by another company, Motorenfabrik Hatz. Installed on the latest modification KMZ-012N. Single-cylinder, four-stroke diesel, with a vertical cylinder arrangement and air cooling. It is unpretentious in operation and economical.

Power kW/hp – 10.5/14.3;
Rated engine speed – 3000 rpm;
Diesel fuel consumption – 255 g/kW, 187.5 g/hp. at one o'clock.

Tractor gearbox KMZ-012

The tractor was equipped with a 6-speed gearbox. Early modifications had 5 forward and 1 reverse speeds, later modifications received a gearbox with 4 forward gears and 2 reverse gears.

The gearbox is mechanical, gear-type, with a two-stage main gear (cylindrical and bevel).

Speed km/h:

Back – 4.49;
Forward the smallest – 1.42;
Forward maximum working – 6.82;
Forward maximum transport - 15.18.

Chassis and transmission of the KMZ-012 tractor

The tractor is exclusively rear-wheel drive; no modifications with all-wheel drive have been created. The front steered wheels are mounted on a swinging, balancing beam, which allows the front axle to follow uneven terrain. The track of both bridges, depending on the tasks performed, can be adjusted in two positions, 70 and 90 cm.

The transmission on the KMZ-012 is also mechanical, with a single-disc friction, dry clutch. Disc brakes are installed in the gearbox housing.

The tractor is equipped with two power take-off shafts, front and rear. This significantly expands the functionality of the tractor allowing the use of active attachments on the front linkage.

Maintenance of KMZ mini tractor

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.

Maintenance before preservation

Before operation, be sure to ensure that the clutch, brake system and steering are in good working order.
Engine oil must be changed every 50 hours of operation of KMZ mini tractors. As fresh oil in the summer, it is necessary to use M-10DM, and in the winter, M-10B. Before replacing, it is necessary to warm up the engine. Thanks to this, the oil will become more liquid and will leave the crankcase faster.
Transmission oil only needs to be changed once a year or every 1000 operating hours. The operating instructions recommend using the time-tested Tap-15V or TAd-17i.
If the KMZ mini tractor is gasoline, then it is necessary to use AI-80 or AI-92 fuel. In this case, the fuel must be fresh and free of foreign impurities.
It will not take much time to properly “mothball” a mini tractor for a long period. The room in which the machine will be stored must be dry and well ventilated. Special covers are also sold with which the tractor is securely covered and stored. Try not to place the unit near sources of fire.
Before storing, thoroughly wash the tractor, paying particular attention to metal parts. All dirt and grass should be thoroughly washed off. Remove all rust and wipe all parts with an oily cloth. Drain the oil and fuel to prevent condensation, drain the coolant to prevent freezing, and remove the battery. It is necessary to reduce the tire pressure to 70% of the working pressure.

Operating rules

To avoid premature failure of large components, it is prohibited:

Overload equipment.
Perform unintended functions.
Turn off the engine at high speeds.
Replace oil and fuel with types other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
Maneuver with the attachment lowered.
Transport passengers.

In order to ensure normal functioning you need:

Use only recommended lubricants.
Change filters and oil regularly.
Use spare parts from the manufacturer.
Properly carry out preservation for the winter period.
Before starting operation, carry out a visual inspection.
Carry out maintenance according to the schedule in the instructions.

Common breakdowns

Power drop.
Increased fuel consumption.
The appearance of black smoke while the engine is running.
Significant overheating of the motor.
The occurrence of extraneous noise.
Feeling of increased vibration.
Visual observation of leaks from oil or fuel tanks.
Changes in running gear operation.
Failures in the operation of central systems.

More details about some of them.

The clutch does not transmit torque:

There is no free play of the pedal (it needs to be adjusted);
The drive discs are worn out or have oil stains (they need to be replaced or cleaned);
The discs on the splines are jamming (you should check their position and, if necessary, remove the jamming).

If the attachment does not lift:

The oil level in the hydraulic system has dropped below the minimum mark (add oil);
The hydraulic pump is turned off (turn it on);
The hydraulic safety valve is stuck (disassemble and clean the valve).

Bad braking:

The free play of the pedal has increased (adjust its position);
The brake disc or pad is worn out (replace the relevant parts).

Gearbox overheats:

Small gear or bearing clearance (adjust);
Lack of oil or its low quality (add oil that is suitable for this model to the required level);

Starter does not work:

Broken or poor contact of the wire (solder or connect it);
Weak battery charge (charge it);
Short circuit (clean the commutator surface or replace the brushes);
Poor contact of the magnetic switch (tighten the switch travel by 2-3 turns).

Timely identification of a malfunction will avoid significant damage and, therefore, reduce repair costs. To do this, the owner must be able to carry out diagnostic procedures. It is advisable to master the basic principles of operation of large components and mechanisms of the KMZ mini tractor.

Cabin of the KMZ-012 tractor

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.

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:

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

Reliability

The KMZ-012 minitractor can be used in almost any weather conditions. And this is not explained by the presence of a sun visor or a removable cabin, but by a power unit that has increased resistance to various environmental influences. This indicator is typical for all offered engines.

Repair features

The key elements of the mini tractor are made of high-strength materials, which guarantees a long service life. Compared to foreign analogues, the equipment has a fairly simple design, making repair work not only simple, but also very convenient. The main components are located under the hood, the battery and fuel tank are located under the reclining driver's seat.

The cost of the KMZ-012 minitractor during the first sales varied from 2 thousand dollars to 2.2 thousand dollars. After some time the price tag was raised. Now serial production of some modified and carburetor versions of this car has been discontinued, but this has not in any way affected the availability of the model. Thus, equipment can now be purchased at a price ranging from 160 thousand rubles and up to 300 thousand Russian rubles, taking into account additional equipment.

Hydraulics and attachment of the KMZ-012 tractor

The disadvantage of this tractor's hydraulic system is that the hydraulic pump is driven by the transmission. This means that when the clutch is depressed, the tractor’s hydraulics do not work.

Therefore, controlling the lifting and lowering of the hitch on the KMZ-012 requires some skill. The hydraulic cylinders of both the rear and front linkages are controlled using a spool valve.

The tractor is equipped with two attachments, front and rear. Both linkages have a classic three-point attachment system and are controlled hydraulically.

Types of attachments

A wide range of attachments presented on the agricultural machinery market allows owners of the KMZ-012 mini tractor to significantly expand the functionality of the unit and make their work on the site easier. The most popular equipment are:

A harrow, with which it is much more efficient to plow the soil than with conventional cutters;
Trailers that allow the transportation of cargo up to 500 kg;
A blade shovel designed to clear an area of snow, leaves and dirt;
The plow is most popular where rotary cutters cannot cope;
The lawn mower is used for mowing ornamental and wild grass;
Rotators can easily handle even dense soils;
The grass catcher works well when used together with a lawn mower;
The spreader scatters seeds or can be used to sprinkle sidewalks and roadways in winter when there is ice;
The updated snow blower ensures exceptional cleanliness of the area by throwing snow to a considerable height;
The brush is used to remove snow and debris. Widely used by utilities.

Plowing using a mintractor

Operation of the KMZ-012 tractor

The KMZ-012 tractor received from the manufacturer a quite good set of attachments, or rather 23 items for public utilities and agriculture. And yet, the machine became most widespread in agriculture, and more precisely in private household plots.

On a personal farmstead with 20-50 acres of land and 3-5 hectares of hayfields, the tractor revealed its potential in the best possible way. Having become a reliable, economical assistant for people living in rural areas and running private households on a small scale.

KMZ-012 also performed well in small livestock farms. Here, its compact dimensions allow it to maneuver inside the buildings while collecting manure or distributing feed.

As always, we will ask farmers who know the strengths and weaknesses of this technique best about the application of ASGM in practice:

I have been using KMZ-012 for 7 years, I am happy with the tractor. One of the serious breakdowns during operation was a broken valve on one cylinder, and I didn’t even notice that. A pleasant discovery was the identity of the piston with the 30-horsepower Zaporozhets. I plowed with a plow with one body to a depth of 20 cm, but it couldn’t pull deeper - there wasn’t enough weight. When mowing, I use GVK-6 side rakes; the windrows were collected using draggers.
I work on a tractor mainly in the summer. It is very helpful in construction on a farmstead, where you can level the crushed stone with a blade, or use a trailed homemade concrete mixer. All transport work is also on it. Plowing, if without fanaticism, you can work 20 centimeters with one body. If the PTO and hydraulics were independent, there would be no price for it.
My veteran has been successfully working on the front lines of our small farm for 17 years. We plow at MTZ, and everything else is planting, inter-rowing, spraying and harvesting the 13 hectares of potatoes on it. It is easy to repair, and with proper maintenance it rarely breaks down. At the beginning, numerous oil leaks from the box bothered me, after disassembling it turned out that the quality of the casting left much to be desired and the gaskets in some places simply did not press through, I put everything on sealant and now everything is clean.

Based on our review and feedback from KMZ-012 owners, we can draw conclusions about its advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

The manufacturer presents 4 power plants from different manufacturers. There are plenty to choose from;
The machine is compact and maneuverable;
Ease of maintenance and maintainability;
Attachments for all types of work, 23 items.

Flaws:

The owners say the main disadvantage is the dependence of the PTO and hydraulic pump on the clutch. This creates inconvenience during work and requires some skill in operating attachments.
They also highlight the low weight of the machine, which reduces its traction characteristics. This can be partially solved by installing additional weights.
Poor quality casting of gearbox housing parts, resulting in numerous leaks and increased oil consumption. It can be solved by replacing the gaskets with oil and heat-resistant sealant.

Purpose

Despite its compactness, the KMZ-012 model has very broad functionality. Thanks to this, the model is often used to perform a wide range of different tasks, both in agriculture (including vegetable gardens and private plots) and in the public sector.

Due to an impressive set of additional attachments, this machine can very effectively cultivate a plot of land up to 5 hectares. In addition, mini tractors are often used on farms and greenhouse complexes. The power of the power unit used is only 12 horsepower, however, even with this indicator, the tractor can be used to tow semi-trailers designed for a load capacity of 500 kilograms and above.

Modernization of the KMZ-012 tractor

Owners of domestic agricultural technicians have always tried to minimize factory defects or simply improve its performance and comfort by making their own changes to the design. KMZ-012 was no exception.

Replacing the hydraulic pump. Often craftsmen make or adapt hydrostatic equipment not provided by the manufacturer, for example a front loader. In this case, the power of the standard NSh-6 is usually not enough, and the NSh-10 is installed. No special changes to the design are required.

Installation of a 3-section hydraulic distributor. Like the previous modernization, it is necessary for working with hydrostatic equipment.

KMZ-012 with a homemade loader and an additionally installed hydraulic distributor.

Installation of dual rear wheels. Often, under heavy loads, the tractor slips and begins to dig in with its rear wheels. In this case, installing twin rear wheels can help. This increases the adhesion area, but the pressure on the ground is significantly reduced. The manufacturer does not provide for such modernization, so turning work is indispensable.

These are the most popular modifications found on KMZ-012. To describe them all, or at least go into detail about the ones presented, would require a separate article.

Price and owner reviews

The average cost of equipment varies from 115,000 to 300,000 rubles.

Sergey, 52 years old, Krasnoyarsk: “This is a good and economical vehicle. I have been working on it for 10 years, during which time I have only repaired it 2 times for minor reasons. I bought it for 112,000 rubles. The equipment is worth the money. Works fine. Additionally, I purchased a potato digger and a snow blower.”

Vladislav, 37 years old, Magnitogorsk: “I purchased it in 2012 for utility work. Not a bad vehicle, but the carburetor does not always work properly. Starting a hot engine can be difficult. From the attachments I purchased a utility brush and a mower. The equipment is easy to install and there were no problems with it.”

Vitaly, 38 years old, Taganrog: “I’ve been using a mini-tractor for 7 years. During this time I only changed the rear tires on it. There were electrical problems during operation, but no repairs were required. The attachments include a potato digger and a solid cultivator, I did everything myself, there were no installation difficulties.”

Grigory, 43 years old, Volgograd: “I use KMZ to work in the garden and when transporting small loads. The equipment copes well with agricultural tasks. I bought a mini-tractor in 2010 for 175,000 rubles, and was pleased with the purchase. I couldn’t install the driver’s cabin myself; they helped me at the service center.”

Roman, 48 years old, Smolensk: “This is a good vehicle with its own advantages and disadvantages. Among the disadvantages, I would like to note the hydraulics, which stop working when the clutch is lost. The advantages are economical fuel consumption and ease of operation and installation of attachments.”

Buying a used KMZ-012 tractor: features of choice

The KMZ-012 tractor is a completely reliable machine. Both the engine and the gearbox, with proper care, can work flawlessly for years. Therefore, it is difficult to give any special recommendations when choosing a used KMZ.

Pay attention to the general technical condition. Extraneous noise when the engine and gearbox are running. Check the operation of the PTO and hydraulics. Evaluate the condition of the tires, they are far from cheap.

Prices for used KMZ-012 in working condition range from 60 to 250 thousand, depending on the condition and availability of attachments.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of this transport:

Multifunctionality, versatility in use. The tractor copes well with agricultural work, construction and utility tasks.
Easy to operate the KMZ tractor.
Economical fuel consumption.
Small weight and dimensions.
There are no difficulties during repair of equipment and installation of additional equipment.
All spare parts and attachments are easy to find and freely available.
Low cost compared to similar models of mini-tractors.
Convenience and comfort while driving.
The tractor has good maneuverability, which allows it to be used in indoor buildings.