Kirovets K-700 – K-701

In 1959, Nikita Khrushchev, visiting the USA, became enthusiastic about the large tractors introduced to him and immediately ordered the start of development for a 200…220 hp articulated tractor. The first machine was manufactured at the Kirov plant in July 1962, and serial production began in autumn 1964.

The K-700 was powered by a YaMZ 14.9-liter turbocharged direct injection diesel engine and was equipped with an electric starter. It had 16 forward and 4 reverse gears with hydraulic power shift. The brakes were pneumatic drum brakes on all four wheels, and the steering was hydraulic articulation. The rear axle could be disengaged if necessary. The differential lock was automatic. The cab was spacious, but visibility was poor. Approximately 100,000 units of the first model were produced.

The updated K-700 A, which entered serial production in 1975, featured two fuel tanks, larger tires, and a more modern hood design. These models were usually yellow, and the headlights were moved lower. The gear spacing was unusual, as the speeds in the 2nd and 3rd ranges were nearly the same. There were now two reverse gear ranges, bringing the total to 16 forward and 8 reverse gears. At the same time, a more powerful K-701 with a V12 engine was developed. A total of 350,000 units of these models were produced by 2002.

The K-701 M, introduced in 1988, replaced the 12-cylinder engine with a 17.2-liter V8 featuring an intercooler and four-valve technology. The wheelbase was significantly longer than before, the wheels larger, the cab new, and the fenders more angular. The front axle also had an automatic differential lock. Optional extras included an air-suspended seat, air conditioning, and at least in Germany, a power lift. The hydraulics were undersized for a tractor of this size category.

In the USA, Kirovets tractors were sold under the names Belarus 7011 and 7111.

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