MAZ-500

The MAZ-500 dump truck is one of the basic machines of the Soviet era.

Dump truck MAZ-500

Numerous processes and modernization of technology have given rise to dozens of new cars. Today, the MAZ-500 with a dump mechanism has been discontinued and replaced by more advanced models in terms of comfort and economy. However, the equipment continues to operate in Russia.

MAZ-500 dump truck: history

The prototype of the future MAZ-500 was created in 1958. In 1963, the first truck rolled off the assembly line of the Minsk plant and was tested. In 1965, the serial production of cars was launched. 1966 was marked by the complete replacement of the MAZ truck line with the 500 family. Unlike its predecessors, the new dump truck received a lower engine location. This decision made it possible to reduce the weight of the machine and increase the load capacity by 500 kg.

In 1970, the base MAZ-500 dump truck was replaced by an improved MAZ-500A model. The MAZ-500 family was produced until 1977. In the same year, the new MAZ-8 series replaced the 5335-ton dump trucks.

MAZ-500 dump truck: specifications

Specialists refer to the features of the MAZ-500 device as the complete independence of the machine from the presence or serviceability of electrical equipment. Even the power steering works hydraulically. Therefore, the performance of the engine is not related to any electronic element in any way.

MAZ-500 dump trucks were actively used in the military sphere precisely because of this design feature. The machines have proven their reliability and survivability in the most difficult conditions. During the production of the MAZ-500, the Minsk plant produced several modifications of the machine:

• MAZ-500Sh - a chassis was made for the necessary equipment;
• MAZ-500V - a metal platform and an onboard tractor;
• MAZ-500G - flatbed dump truck with an extended base;
• MAZ-500S (later MAZ-512) - version for northern latitudes;
• MAZ-500Yu (later MAZ-513) - an option for a tropical climate;
• MAZ-505 is an all-wheel drive dump truck.

Engine and transmission

In the basic configuration of the MAZ-500, a YaMZ-236 diesel power unit was installed. The 180-horsepower four-stroke engine was distinguished by a V-shaped arrangement of cylinders, the diameter of each part was 130 mm, the piston stroke was 140 mm. The working volume of all six cylinders is 11,15 liters. The compression ratio is 16,5.

The maximum speed of the crankshaft is 2100 rpm. The maximum torque is reached at 1500 rpm and is equal to 667 Nm. To adjust the number of revolutions, a multi-mode centrifugal device is used. Minimum fuel consumption 175 g/hp.h.

In addition to the engine, a five-speed manual transmission is installed. Dual disc dry clutch provides power shifting. The steering mechanism is equipped with a hydraulic booster. Suspension spring type. Bridge design - front, front axle - steering. Hydraulic shock absorbers of telescopic design are used on both axles.

Cabin and dump truck body

The all-metal cabin is designed to carry three people, including the driver. Additional devices available:

• heater;
• fan;
• mechanical windows;
• automatic windscreen washers and wipers;
• umbrella.

The body of the first MAZ-500 was wooden. The sides were supplied with metal amplifiers. The discharge was carried out in three directions.

Overall dimensions and performance data

• carrying capacity on public roads - 8000 kg;
• the mass of the towed trailer on paved roads is not more than 12 kg;
• gross vehicle weight with cargo, no more than 14 kg;
• total weight of the road train, not more than - 26 kg;
• longitudinal base - 3950 mm;
• reverse track - 1900 mm;
• front track - 1950 mm;
• ground clearance under the front axle - 290 mm;
• ground clearance under the rear axle housing - 290 mm;
• minimum turning radius - 9,5 m;
• front overhang angle - 28 degrees;
• rear overhang angle - 26 degrees;
• length - 7140mm;
• width — 2600 mm;
• cabin ceiling height - 2650 mm;
• platform dimensions - 4860/2480/670 mm;
• body volume - 8,05 m3;
• maximum transport speed - 85 km / h;
• stopping distance - 18 m;
• monitor fuel consumption - 22 l / 100 km.

Get an advantageous offer from direct suppliers:

MAZ-500

A worthy replacement for the first "two hundred" from MAZ - MAZ-500. An improved version for the needs of the Soviet Union. All sorts of modifications to the machine and improved equipment. The use of the 500 continues to this day, moreover, special gourmets even modify the car. The entire range of MAZ.

History of the car

It is clear that the first MAZ-200 could not remain practical for a long time, and in 1965 it was replaced by a new MAZ-500 truck. The most notable difference was, of course, the redesigned body structure. The frame was placed on axles to increase the vehicle's load capacity and thus its economy. And, since there was no longer a hood, and the engine was placed under the cab, visibility for the driver increased. In addition, three seats remain, including the driver's seat, as in the previous version. Only one modification in the form of a dump truck had two seats. Working on the cabin of the new "silovik", the designers took care of the driver and a more comfortable and convenient ride. Controls such as the steering wheel, gear lever and instrument panel have been rationally placed. They did not forget the color of the upholstery, besides that it was completely.

A convenient innovation was the presence of a bed. For the first time for MAZ vehicles. It was the absence of a hood that allowed the “1960th” model to go down in history. The fact is that such a design was first put into operation in the Soviet automotive industry. In the 1965s, the whole world began to undergo a similar revolution, as the hood significantly interfered with the control of a large vehicle. But, given the need to raise the country after the war, the quality of roads suitable for the use of cabover cabs became suitable only after twenty years. And in 500, the MAZ-200 appeared, which became a worthy replacement for its previous model "1977". The truck remained on the assembly line until XNUMX.

The basic equipment was already a hydraulic dump truck, but the platform was still wooden, although the cab was already metal. The main focus during development, of course, was on versatility. Achieving this goal allowed the machine to be used in all possible areas where transportation was required. It was enough to develop a modification with the desired module on board. This model had the ability to start from the tractor. This meant that no electricity was needed to start the engine if necessary. This feature was very useful in military needs.

Technical specifications

Motor. The power plant of the Minsk truck was continued at the Yaroslavl Automobile Plant. The engine index was YaMZ-236, and it was he who became the base for most modifications. Six cylinders arranged in a V-shape worked in four strokes on diesel fuel. There was no turbo. The main disadvantage of the system was the high level of negative environmental impact. The ecological type is classified as Euro-0. The use of such a diesel engine creates inconvenience in cold climates. As now, the diesel had a high efficiency and gave little heat. Because of this, the interior warmed up for a long time. The MAZ-500 fuel tank has a special baffle to prevent or extinguish hydraulic pressure inside the tank.

transmission of infection. During the production of the MAZ-500, practically no changes were made to this part of the car. The most significant was the change in the type of clutch from single-disk to double-disk. The innovation made it possible to shift gears under the influence of loads. It happened in 1970.

Read more: ZIL Bull: vehicle specifications, load capacity of the GAZ-5301 dump truck

Rear axle. MAZ-500 is driven precisely by the rear axle. Gears have already appeared in the axle gearbox, which reduced the load on the differential and axle shafts. This technology was also new for MAZ. In our time, in order to improve the operation of the MAZ chassis, the gearbox is being replaced with a more modern one manufactured by LiAZ or LAZ.

Cabin and body. Until the end of the 60s of the last century, the platform remained wooden, but then it was upgraded to a metal version. The cabin had, as usual, two doors, three seats and a bunk. As already mentioned, this was a huge plus in terms of comfort in the cabin. There were also boxes for tools and personal belongings of the passengers.

For greater comfort, the driver's seat had several adjustment methods, ventilation was present. True, given the poor heat transfer, the MAZ-500 was equipped with a stove, but this did not really save the situation. The windshield consisted of two parts, and the wiper drive was now located in the lower base of the frame. The cab itself was tilted forward, giving access to the engine.

dimensions

Engine

For a new type of equipment at the Yaroslavl plant, a 4-stroke diesel YaMZ-236 was developed. It had 6 cylinders with a volume of 11,15 liters, arranged in a V-shape, the crankshaft speed (maximum) was 2100 rpm. The maximum torque, reaching from 667 to 1225 Nm, was created at a speed of about 1500 rpm. The power of the power unit reached 180 hp. The cylinder diameter was 130 mm, with a piston stroke of 140 mm, a compression ratio of 16,5 was achieved.

The YaMZ-236 engine was created specifically for the MAZ-500 trucks and fully met the expectations of the designers. The reduction in fuel consumption was considered a special achievement, with a 200-liter fuel tank it was 25 l / 100 km, which meant the possibility of long-range distillation from refueling, valuable in remote and northern territories.

Clutch features

Initially, the MAZ-500 was equipped with a single-plate clutch, which led to some inconvenience. The situation was corrected in 1970, when MAZ trucks switched to a friction-type double-disk clutch. The derailleur was very useful, providing the ability to change gears under load. A peripheral arrangement of trigger springs installed in a cast-iron crankcase was used. After that, the design did not change, since the team's exploiters had no complaints about it.

Brake system

For heavy vehicles, which include MAZ-500 trucks, the design and quality of the brake system is of paramount importance. The 500 series has two brake lines:

• Pneumatic foot brake of shoe type. The blow is made on all wheels.
• The parking brake is connected to the gearbox.

Chassis and vehicle control system

The main element of the MAZ-500 chassis is a riveted frame with a 4:2 wheel arrangement and a wheelbase of 3850 mm. The front axle of the truck was equipped with single wheels, and the rear axle was equipped with double-sided discless wheels with low pressure tires. The suspension consists of longer leaf springs for a softer, smoother ride. The steering has a hydraulic booster, the maximum angle of rotation is 38 °.

Transmission and electrical equipment of a car

The MAZ-500 car is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox. Synchronizers are used at the 4 highest speeds. Gear ratios (in ascending order):

• 5,26;
• 2,90;
• 1,52;
• one;
• 0,66;
• 5,48 (back);
• 7, 24 (total gear ratio attributable to the rear axle).

Cab features

The all-metal cabover cab of the MAZ-500 truck has 3 seats (for dump trucks - 2) and a berth. For the state of the art of that time, it had a high level of comfort, the glazed area provided a good overview, the controls were located in the most convenient order for the driver. Well-chosen interior lining, comfortable chairs are installed.

Modifications and improvements

MAZ-500 steel is as universal as "200". There were many modifications. For a variety of purposes, new versions have been designed and developed:

• MAZ-500SH: Improved cargo compartment chassis. In addition to the body, such modules were installed as: a concrete mixer and a tank;
• MAZ-500V is a military modification designed to transport goods and personnel. The suspension was redesigned and guides for the awning appeared. The body was all metal;
• MAZ-500G - This modification is released in a limited series and is extremely rare. Designed for transportation of oversized cargo;
• MAZ-500S - for the northern part of the USSR, the car was equipped with additional means of heating, and the cabin itself was more carefully insulated. In addition, a starting heater was built into the engine. In case of poor visibility in polar conditions, additional searchlights were present. Later, the model was renamed MAZ-512;
• MAZ-500YU - reverse gear "500C". Designed to work in hot environments. Equipped with additional ventilation and thermal insulation of the cabin. Now known as MAZ-513;
• MAZ-500A is a more advanced basic variation. In terms of dimensions, export requirements have already been met again. The mechanical part of the gearbox has been optimized. Externally, the developers have changed only the grille. The car became more powerful, the maximum speed was now 85 km / h. And the weight of the transported cargo increased to 8 tons. The modification left the assembly line in 1970;
• MAZ-504 is a two-axle tractor. The main difference was the additional 175 liter fuel tank;
• MAZ-504V - the modification had a more powerful engine - YaMZ-238. He had 240 forces, which significantly increased his carrying capacity. In addition to the loaded body, he could pull a semi-trailer with a total weight of up to 20 tons;
• MAZ-503 - dump truck. Completely all the elements of the box have already been made of metal. Designed for use in quarries;
• MAZ-511 - dump truck. A distinctive feature was the lateral ejection. Rare model, as the release was limited;
• MAZ-509 - timber carrier. Improved transmission: double disc clutch, increased number of gear stages and gearbox on the front axle;
• MAZ-505 is an experimental military version. Notable for all-wheel drive;
• MAZ-508 - tractor with all-wheel drive. Limited edition.

Since the trucks of the 500th series are perfectly preserved, they can still be found from different companies. In most of the former Soviet republics, the MAZ-500 of the 70s is still circulating. The price of used models is now in the range of 150-300 thousand Russian rubles.

Upgrade

Special lovers of the MAZ-500 are still finalizing it. YaMZ-238 was installed to increase power. Therefore, it is necessary to change the box, since a divider is needed. If the model is all-wheel drive, then the razdatka is also subject to modification. It also requires replacement of the box to reduce fuel consumption (without replacement up to 35/100). Of course, the upgrade "flies a pretty penny", but the reviews say that it's worth it. The rear axle is also being modernized, or rather, they simply change it to a more modern one and put new shock absorbers on it.

In the case of the salon, the list will be very long. The fix can include everything from curtains and seating to heating and electrical equipment. There are even those who install air conditioning. The purposes in which the MAZ-500 is used are so wide that it is impossible to list them without a separate article. The uniqueness of this truck has already entered the history of the Minsk Automobile Plant and the Soviet automobile industry. However, it still performs much more demanding tasks than when it was created.

Advantages and disadvantages

Today, the MAZ-500 can still be found on the roads, and this suggests that even after a long period of time, the car has retained its driving performance. The car is easy to repair and it will not be difficult for the owner to find spare parts, the donor can be an analogue or a suitable part from an authorized dealer. At the beginning of production, a big advantage was the tilting cab, which provided good access to work systems. Now this arrangement of the engine and the way to access it are not new, but still remain a distinctive advantage, for example, from the ZIL of the same years. Salon is not the most comfortable by today's standards. But this is just a feature of the standard version, many elements can be replaced with more suitable ones. These details include seats, in place of which even imported chairs fit perfectly, but even with factory ones, you can make a number of frauds and increase their comfort. The casing is immediately replaced at the request of the owner, along with this, the gaskets and the overall tightness of the machine can also be improved with your own hands.

We notice an equally important detail - a place to sleep. Quite comfortable and cozy, it deserves a place in the list of station wagon advantages. The only point, not negative, but incomprehensible, is the presence of windows near the bed for rest. Working systems demonstrate good performance even after a large number of kilometers traveled. The gearbox turns on without hesitation, and the power unit from YaMZ does not show any special quirks and is able to work even in the most difficult conditions. Of course, in our time, the MAZ "five hundred" is far behind the requirements of modern models, so its stability cannot cover the relatively lower efficiency of modern trucks.

Read more: Punisher: Car, Car YaMZ-7E846, Tank TsSN

Fuel trucks based on MAZ: specifications, device, photo

GAZ 53 is perhaps the most popular truck in Russia. A lot of different special equipment was created on the chassis of this truck. In particular, the GAZ 53 02 dump truck was produced, KAVZ 53 buses were assembled on the GAZ 40 685 chassis. Milk trucks and fuel trucks were assembled on the GAZ 53 chassis.

The GAZ 53 fuel truck has always been in demand, and in our time there is a special interest in such equipment. Fuel trucks are often bought by private entrepreneurs, as a good business can be built on the transportation of fuel.

Fuel trucks based on GAZ 53 are often sold by private ads. Prices for equipment can be very different, the cost directly depends on the condition of the car. In poor condition, a “barrel” costs from 50 thousand rubles, prices for well-preserved cars with low mileage reach 250 thousand rubles and more.

Browse popular models

A wide range of fuel trucks, created on the basis of MAZ, allows you to choose the most suitable option. Much depends on the goals pursued by the potential buyer. Models 5337, 5334 and 500 should be different from the existing line.

MAZ 5337

This model is used for transportation of light oil products. The special chassis design makes this version of the car as manoeuvrable as possible. Fuel truck 5337 can be easily operated on sections of roads with poor surface quality. This was made possible due to the high level of cross-country ability. The two-section fuel truck has a wheel formula 4x2. Optionally, a radio, sunroof and tachograph can be installed on such a car.

The fuel truck tank is equipped with a special marker, the main function of which is to determine the level of transported fuel. In addition, the tank is equipped with a vent valve, drain pipes and valves. Technical characteristics of a fuel truck based on the MAZ-5337 car:

Photo fuel truck MAZ-5337

MAZ 5334

This model of a fuel truck is additionally equipped with a drain pump, a fuel dispensing valve, presented in the form of a gun, and a counter. This makes it possible to use the fuel truck not only for storing and transporting fuel, but also as a mobile filling station.

The tank truck MAZ 5334 has a single-section design.

Due to the special design of the container, a constant temperature regime is maintained inside. As a result, the likelihood of ignition of the fuel mixture is minimized. Also, maintaining the temperature at the same level eliminates the evaporation of the liquid during transportation.

Technical characteristics of the fuel truck MAZ-5334:

Photo fuel truck MAZ-5334

MAZ 500

The fuel truck is built on the basis of the MAZ 500 truck. The reliable chassis design of such a vehicle facilitates its operation on roads with poor quality coverage.

Specifications of a fuel truck based on MAZ-500:

Photo fuel truck MAZ-500

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Military equipment on the MAZ-5334 and 5337 chassis. Vehicles of the Soviet Army 1946-1991

Military equipment on the MAZ-5334 and 5337 chassis

On the chassis 5334, the former regular bodies of the K-500 and KM-500 were installed with the equipment of heavy mechanical workshops of already known types (from MM-1 to MM-13), to which a shop for the manufacture of rubber products was added, and in 1989 a turret-turning shop was added. MRTI-1, working with two-axle van trailers for the delivery of tools, goods and consumables. In 1979, a modified ATs-500-8 fuel truck with a capacity of 5334 thousand liters, which was put into service in 8, was transferred to this chassis from a MAZ-1981A car. It also included a self-priming centrifugal pump STsL. -20- 24, control panel, filters, meters, communications, control equipment and metering valves. The gross vehicle weight has been reduced to 15,3 tons. In 1980 - 1984 The Bataysky plant has assembled ASM-8-5334 fuel oil truck for transportation and distribution of fuel oil. The TZA-7,5-5334 (ATZ-7,5-5334) tank truck, put into service in 1981, also did not fundamentally differ from the TZA-7,5-500A model with a steel tank with a capacity of 7,5 thousand liters and a rear block management. It was equipped with a modernized SCL-20-24G pump with a capacity of 600 l/min, new meters, filters, dosing fittings, pressure and suction hoses, which led to an increase in the total weight of the machine to 15,3 tons. The last in this series in 1988 was the ATs-9-5337 (ATZ-9-5337) tanker with a capacity of 9 thousand liters on a 5337 chassis with a short cab. The Kharkiv plant KhZTM participated in its launch. The machine was equipped with a STsL-20-24A pump with a capacity of 750 l / min for simultaneous filling of two consumers, new communications, filters, taps, an individual set of accessories, two fire extinguishers and a device for removing static electricity. Its gross weight reached 16,5 tons. For general loading and unloading operations, the troops continued to use the 6,3-ton K-67 boom truck crane, rebuilt on the 5334 chassis, and in the 1980s, a new 12,5-ton multi-purpose hydraulic crane. KS-3577 of the Ivanovo plant on the same chassis with a two-section telescopic boom and extensions, which made it possible to work at a height of more than 20 m mixers, an individual set of accessories, two fire extinguishers and a device for removing static electricity. Its gross weight reached 16,5 tons. For general loading and unloading operations, the troops continued to use the 6,3-ton K-67 boom truck crane, rebuilt on the 5334 chassis, and in the 1980s, a new 12,5-ton multi-purpose hydraulic crane. KS-3577 of the Ivanovo plant on the same chassis with a two-section telescopic boom and extensions, which made it possible to work at a height of more than 20 m mixers, an individual set of accessories, two fire extinguishers and a device for removing static electricity. Its gross weight reached 16,5 tons. For general loading and unloading operations, the troops continued to use the 6,3-ton K-67 boom truck crane, rebuilt on the 5334 chassis, and in the 1980s, a new 12,5-ton multi-purpose hydraulic crane. KS-3577 of the Ivanovo plant on the same chassis with a two-section telescopic boom and extensions, which made it possible to work at a height of more than 20 m, and in the 1980s a new multi-purpose hydraulic crane with a lifting capacity of 12,5 tons. KS-3577 of the Ivanovo plant on the same chassis with a two-section telescopic boom and extensions, which made it possible to work at a height of more than 20 m, and in the 1980s a new multi-purpose hydraulic crane with a lifting capacity of 12,5 tons.

Heavy workshop MRTI-1 in the back of KM-500 on a 9-ton MAZ-5334 chassis. 1989

Tanker AC-8-5334 on MAZ-5334 chassis with pumping equipment. 1979

In 1986, the Minsk Automobile Plant assembled the first prototype of its new three-axle 11-ton military truck MAZ-6317 (6 × 6) with single tires on all wheels and an extended civilian cab, which served to deliver military personnel, transport military cargo and tow army equipment on the roads general use, operation and rough terrain. At the same time, a unified tractor 6425 appeared, which was tested with a MAZ-938B semi-trailer as part of a road train with a gross weight of 44 tons, it was not possible to bring them to industrial production even in Soviet times, and after the collapse of the USSR and the formation of the independent Republic of Belarus, the position of the plant turned out to be sufficient heavy. The transition from perestroika to economic reforms in the early 1990s was marked by significant financial and political upheavals, putting MAZ on the brink of disaster. Despite this, the plant managed to quickly get out of the crisis, develop and put on the conveyor new and modernized trucks. Since 1995, these have included an updated military version of the 6317, powered by a YaMZ-238D V8 turbocharged 330 hp diesel engine and a 9-speed manual transmission. The formation of independent Belarus led in 1991 to the separation of the special military production of MAZ into an independent enterprise - the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT), which became the main supplier to Russia of heavy multi-axle chassis equipped with a YaMZ-238D V8 turbocharged diesel engine with a capacity of 330 hp and 9 speed manual transmission. The formation of independent Belarus led in 1991 to the separation of the special military production of MAZ into an independent enterprise - the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT), which became the main supplier of heavy chassis for multi-axle vehicles equipped with YaMZ. -238D 8hp turbocharged V330 diesel engine and 9-speed manual transmission. The formation of independent Belarus led in 1991 to the separation of the special military production of MAZ into an independent enterprise - the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT.

An experienced MAZ-6317 truck with a winch, a lean-to and civilian cab. 1986

MAZ-500

 

• Car brand: MAZ
• Country of manufacture: USSR

• Launch: 1965
• Body Type: Truck

A worthy replacement for the first "two hundred" from MAZ - MAZ-500. An improved version for the needs of the Soviet Union. All sorts of modifications to the machine and improved equipment. The use of the 500 continues to this day, moreover, special gourmets even modify the car. The entire range of MAZ.

History of the car

It is clear that the first MAZ-200 could not remain practical for a long time, and in 1965 it was replaced by a new MAZ-500 truck. The most notable difference was, of course, the redesigned body structure. The frame was placed on axles to increase the vehicle's load capacity and thus its economy. And, since there was no longer a hood, and the engine was placed under the cab, visibility for the driver increased.

In addition, three seats remain, including the driver's seat, as in the previous version. Only one modification in the form of a dump truck had two seats. Working on the cabin of the new "silovik", the designers took care of the driver and a more comfortable and convenient ride. Controls such as the steering wheel, gear lever and dashboard are rationally placed. They did not forget about the colors of the upholstery, besides, there was none at all, the range consisted of pleasant colors of calm shades.

A convenient innovation was the presence of a bed. For the first time for MAZ vehicles. It was the absence of a hood that allowed the “1960th” model to go down in history. The fact is that such a design was first put into operation in the Soviet automotive industry. In the XNUMXs, the whole world began to undergo a similar revolution, as the hood significantly interfered with the control of a large vehicle.

But, given the need to raise the country after the war, the quality of roads suitable for the use of cabover cabs became suitable only after twenty years. And in 1965, the MAZ-500 appeared, which became a worthy replacement for its previous model "200". The truck remained on the assembly line until 1977.

Read more: KrAZ-250: large truck crane, technical characteristics of the crane KS 4562

The basic equipment was already a hydraulic dump truck, but the platform was still wooden, although the cab was already metal. The main focus during development, of course, was on versatility. Achieving this goal allowed the machine to be used in all possible areas where transportation was required.

It was enough to develop a modification with the desired module on board. This model had the ability to start from the tractor. This meant that no electricity was needed to start the engine if necessary. This feature was very useful in military needs.

Technical specifications

Engine

The power plant of the Minsk truck was continued at the Yaroslavl Automobile Plant. The engine index was YaMZ-236, and it was he who became the base for most modifications. Six cylinders arranged in a V-shape worked in four strokes on diesel fuel. There was no turbo. The main disadvantage of the system was the high level of negative environmental impact. The ecological type is classified as Euro-0.

The use of such a diesel engine creates inconvenience in cold climates. As now, the diesel had a high efficiency and gave little heat. Because of this, the interior warmed up for a long time. The MAZ-500 fuel tank has a special baffle to prevent or extinguish hydraulic pressure inside the tank. Despite the low environmental rating, the YaAZ-236 engine remains a model of build quality and enjoys good owner reviews even in our time.

Трансмиссия

During the production of the MAZ-500, practically no changes were made to this part of the car. The most significant was the change in the type of clutch from single-disk to double-disk. The innovation made it possible to shift gears under the influence of loads. It happened in 1970.

Rear axle

MAZ-500 is driven precisely by the rear axle. Gears have already appeared in the axle gearbox, which reduced the load on the differential and axle shafts. This technology was also new for MAZ. In our time, in order to improve the operation of the MAZ chassis, the gearbox is being replaced with a more modern one manufactured by LiAZ or LAZ.

Cab and body

Until the end of the 60s of the last century, the platform remained wooden, but then it was upgraded to a metal version. The cabin had, as usual, two doors, three seats and a bunk. As already mentioned, this was a huge plus in terms of comfort in the cabin. There were also boxes for tools and personal belongings of the passengers.

For greater comfort, the driver's seat had several adjustment methods, ventilation was present. True, given the poor heat transfer, the MAZ-500 was equipped with a stove, but this did not really save the situation. The windshield consisted of two parts, and the wiper drive was now located in the lower base of the frame. The cab itself was tilted forward, giving access to the engine.

Modifications and improvements

MAZ-500 steel is as universal as "200". There were many modifications. For a variety of purposes, new versions have been designed and developed:

• MAZ-500SH: Improved cargo compartment chassis. In addition to the body, such modules were installed as: a concrete mixer and a tank;
• MAZ-500V is a military modification designed to transport goods and personnel. The suspension was redesigned and guides for the awning appeared. The body was all metal;
• MAZ-500G - This modification is released in a limited series and is extremely rare. Designed for transportation of oversized cargo;
• MAZ-500S - for the northern part of the USSR, the car was equipped with additional means of heating, and the cabin itself was more carefully insulated. In addition, a starting heater was built into the engine. In case of poor visibility in polar conditions, additional searchlights were present. Later, the model was renamed MAZ-512;
• MAZ-500YU - reverse gear "500C". Designed to work in hot environments. Equipped with additional ventilation and thermal insulation of the cabin. Now known as MAZ-513;
• MAZ-500A is a more advanced basic variation. In terms of dimensions, export requirements have already been met again. The mechanical part of the gearbox has been optimized. Externally, the developers have changed only the grille. The car became more powerful, the maximum speed was now 85 km / h. And the weight of the transported cargo increased to 8 tons. The modification left the assembly line in 1970;
• MAZ-504 is a two-axle tractor. The main difference was the additional 175 liter fuel tank;
• MAZ-504V - the modification had a more powerful engine - YaMZ-238. He had 240 forces, which significantly increased his carrying capacity. In addition to the loaded body, he could pull a semi-trailer with a total weight of up to 20 tons;
• MAZ-503 - dump truck. Completely all the elements of the box have already been made of metal. Designed for use in quarries;
• MAZ-511 - dump truck. A distinctive feature was the lateral ejection. Rare model, as the release was limited;
• MAZ-509 - timber carrier. Improved transmission: double disc clutch, increased number of gear stages and gearbox on the front axle;
• MAZ-505 is an experimental military version. Notable for all-wheel drive;
• MAZ-508 - tractor with all-wheel drive. Limited edition.

Since the trucks of the 500th series are perfectly preserved, they can still be found from different companies. In most of the former Soviet republics, the MAZ-500 of the 70s is still circulating. The price of used models is now in the range of 150-300 thousand Russian rubles.

Upgrade

Special lovers of the MAZ-500 are still finalizing it. YaMZ-238 was installed to increase power. Therefore, it is necessary to change the box, since a divider is needed. If the model is all-wheel drive, then the razdatka is also subject to modification. It also requires replacement of the box to reduce fuel consumption (without replacement up to 35/100). Of course, the upgrade "flies a pretty penny", but the reviews say that it's worth it. The rear axle is also being modernized, or rather, they simply change it to a more modern one and put new shock absorbers on it.

In the case of the salon, the list will be very long. The fix can include everything from curtains and seating to heating and electrical equipment. There are even those who install air conditioning. The purposes in which the MAZ-500 is used are so wide that it is impossible to list them without a separate article. The uniqueness of this truck has already entered the history of the Minsk Automobile Plant and the Soviet automobile industry. However, it still performs much more demanding tasks than when it was created.

Advantages and disadvantages

Today, the MAZ-500 can still be found on the roads, and this suggests that even after a long period of time, the car has retained its driving performance. The car is easy to repair and it will not be difficult for the owner to find spare parts, the donor can be an analogue or a suitable part from an authorized dealer. At the beginning of production, a big advantage was the tilting cab, which provided good access to work systems. Now this arrangement of the engine and the way to access it are not new, but still remain a distinctive advantage, for example, from the ZIL of the same years. Salon is not the most comfortable by today's standards. But this is just a feature of the standard version, many elements can be replaced with more suitable ones. These details include seats, in place of which even imported chairs fit perfectly, but even with factory ones, you can make a number of frauds and increase their comfort. The casing is immediately replaced at the request of the owner, along with this, the gaskets and the overall tightness of the machine can also be improved with your own hands.

We notice an equally important detail - a place to sleep. Quite comfortable and cozy, it deserves a place in the list of station wagon advantages. The only point, not negative, but incomprehensible, is the presence of windows near the bed for rest. Working systems demonstrate good performance even after a large number of kilometers traveled. The gearbox turns on without hesitation, and the power unit from YaMZ does not show any special quirks and is able to work even in the most difficult conditions. Of course, in our time, the MAZ "five hundred" is far behind the requirements of modern models, so its stability cannot cover the relatively lower efficiency of modern trucks.

Summing up

MAZ-500 with its appearance makes it clear that the machine is configured for high performance and can easily perform the tasks of transporting goods in a variety of conditions. Yes, comfort is a topic that I don’t want to talk about in this car, but if desired, a good master can correct this nuance.

On the Internet, you can find reviews of truck owners and make sure that the car really makes a good impression. And if so, then with proper and timely care, the five-hundred model will last you a long time.

MAZ-500 photo

Video MAZ-500