The GAZ 53 truck was produced by the Gorky Automobile Plant for over 30 years. Over the years of production, the machine has undergone several upgrades, during which engine power and load capacity grew. The appearance remained almost unchanged, as did the design of the main components and assemblies.
1983 modernization
The version of the truck under the designation GAZ 53A has been produced since 1965, and by the beginning of the 80s it was outdated in many respects. Since promising truck models were only in development, the designers had no other choice but to finalize the old model, which was designated GAZ 5312.
The modernization concerned the engine, which was equipped with heads with modified intake valve channels and an increased compression ratio. The channels received a different shape of the walls, which made it possible to more fully direct the flow of the working mixture into the cylinders. To prepare the working mixture, the improved K 135 carburetor was used .
The GAZ 5312 engine used an oil pan and valve covers of a modified form, more reliable valve stem seals and clutch.
Thanks to such improvements, the main characteristics of the GAZ 5312 have changed - the carrying capacity has increased to 4.5 tons and fuel consumption has slightly decreased (by 1.5-2 liters). One sheet was added to the rear main springs to compensate for the increased load.
Modifications
The car remained universal, and it was produced in a wide variety of options. The GAZ 5312 chassis was used for dump trucks, buses, fire and municipal vehicles. Some versions were exported and for the needs of the army.
For the needs of bus factories, an elongated GAZ 5312 chassis was manufactured, characterized by a softer suspension. The bus chassis was in two versions - for normal and northern climatic zones. Almost all options could be delivered with a gas installation. The gas-cylinder onboard version 5319 was equipped with a 105-horsepower engine, specially modified for gas operation.
Production Changes
The design of the GAZ 5312 truck was constantly refined and improved. Many changes were minor and minor. Below are listed only the main improvements.
- Early cars had a radiator grill with gills of ventilation of the old-style radiator and only in 1984 began to use a new one (the photo above shows a fire truck with an old grille installed).
- There was a constant struggle to reduce the weight of the car - since 1985 it has been reduced by 50 kg.
- In the same 1985, the car began to be equipped with the main pair with a gear ratio of 6.17.
- In 1986, the car’s brake system was radically changed and an emergency alarm button was introduced in the cab. The truck was equipped with lighting equipment that meets international standards.
- In 1988, the engine was finalized by introducing new heads.
- In 1990, the floor of the airborne platform was changed.