Domestic automakers at one time offered customers a lot of different models. Many of them are found on the roads today. True, some options have already undergone changes from the car owners themselves. One of the most popular domestic car brands is considered to be ZIL. Tuning these trucks is a common thing and far from rare. And if one can agree with their power and endurance, then comfort leaves much to be desired. And it’s difficult to operate individual models without certain modifications. This applies to the ZIL "Bull-calf" truck, the tuning of which is simply obligatory. And this is not surprising, given the fact that he was "blinded from what was."
Attempts by the manufacturer to modify the model
The production of ZIL cars began many decades ago. For example, ZIL-130 appeared in 1956. Initially, it was equipped with a 5.2-liter carburetor engine with a capacity of 130 horsepower and a lifting capacity of 4 tons. But tests have shown that the truck lacks certain qualities, one of which is dynamics. Therefore, the manufacturer decided to finalize the ZIL car. Tuning affected the power unit, which was completely replaced. The new engine had a capacity of 150 horsepower. Thanks to new elements, the car has become more load-lifting and hardy.
Attempts to correct the flaws also affected the ZIL-5301 (better known as the “Goby”). Initially, an engine from tractors, a cab from previous models, and a gearbox from ZIL-130 were used for its production. The truck was assembled as a designer, but the developers had no time to test it. Therefore, the owners of ZIL cars do it themselves.
Producers made an attempt to change the "Goby". This modification received the ZIL-53012 index. The idea was to combine their own developments with imported technology. As a result, a cab and a platform from ZIL vehicles were installed on the chassis of the Mercedes 709D.
What can be changed?
Car ZIL tuning (photo of which can be viewed in this article) most often consists of the following steps:
- Frame reinforcement.
- Engine replacement.
- Finalization of the cabin.
- Increase comfort.
This is a fairly general list of work performed. More specific methods depend on the wishes and capabilities of the car owner. In addition, you need to build on the model of the truck, which must undergo tuning. We will dwell on three of them in more detail: ZIL-130, ZIL-131 and ZIL-5301.
Upgrade level
Tuning may include a different number of improvements. Three degrees are distinguished depending on this:
- Cosmetic - small changes that consist in installing additional elements (headlights, visor, moldings, grille, kenguryatnik and so on), body painting and airbrushing, equipping with a modern audio system.
- Medium - aimed at increasing the level of comfort in the cabin, improving the exhaust system, transmission and other individual parts of the engine.
- High - in addition to the already described works, the technical characteristics of the truck are improved (fuel consumption, power, handling, speed and others).
These improvements may apply to any of the models.
Tuning ZIL-130
The first thing that undergoes tuning is the interior. The high noise level does not allow you to feel comfortable. Therefore, the cabin is protected by noise and vibration isolation. After that pay attention to the seats. If it is not possible to replace them with others equipped with a pneumatic system, it will be sufficient to replace the upholstery. Native seats are covered with dermatin, which is not very pleasant to sit on.
Some amateurs choose the Ford E-250 pickup as a donor. To complete the cabin, they take a dashboard from it , which is customized for the domestic panel. All this is diluted with improved backlight. Install an audio system and good speakers.
As for the technical side of the issue, here pay attention to power and load capacity. For this purpose, suspension elements are changed. Replacing the springs with air bags will make the movement as smooth as possible. Power is increased by replacing the jets in the carburetor, the bore of the cylinders and the head of the block, replacing the valves.
Change ZIL-131
This army truck is still popular. As in other cars, the changes most often affect the appearance, interior and power plant ZIL-131. Tuning can be divided into two types:
- When using a large number of additional elements (including chrome), lights and the like, they talk about tuning in the American style.
- ZIL-131 can also be modified in the European style, which is more characteristic of spoilers, kenguryatniki, engine replacement.
In both cases, chrome parts are used and the body is repainted.
Improvements "Goby"
The cabin, taken as a basis, has good dimensions. Thanks to this, there is enough space inside for several people. The cabin is warm from its own heating system. But usually the ducts are ordered. The engine from the tractors causes a number of inconveniences associated with loud noise. And defeating him is very difficult. Soundproofing is laid on several sides:
- On the hood from the inside.
- On both sides of the engine shield.
- Into the space under the pedals and levers.
These methods reduce but do not eliminate noise. The most reliable way is to replace the power unit. In addition, in a ZIL car, tuning affects the front brakes, wiring, and clutch. Thus, a machine with improved external and technical characteristics is obtained.
Tuning ZIL can be considered a very interesting process. The main thing here is not to overdo it.