Luaz-969

LuAZ-969, or Volyn, as it is also called, is a Soviet cargo-and-passenger all-wheel drive vehicle. The development of the model began in 1966, and the LuAZ plant produced it in 1979. Later, the plant produced an updated model of the LuAZ-969A in 1975, and the last brand, which was released in 1979, received the name LuAZ-969M. It was produced until 1996. Although it can still boast of being passable, it was a real breakthrough at the time. The secret was simple: low vehicle weight, small wheelbase and high ground clearance. The whole model range is Luaz.

Car history

Everything started almost by chance, in the 1950s, and the repair shops were initially transformed into a car repair company and then into a machine building company. The factory produced agricultural equipment together with trailers and workers repaired trucks. And suddenly, at NAMI, by order of the Ministry of Defense, a transporter of the front edge – TIC – was developed. It was a completely military concept. There was a motorcycle truck that could be thrown out of the plane with a parachute.

In addition to the chauffeur, a couple of stretchers or six seated passengers could mix on board. The height did not exceed half a meter. A four-wheel drive system and a winch were installed. In addition, it can be called an amphibian, as it moved on the water by rotating the wheels. The model was intended for transportation of wounded people, ammunition, as well as towing small guns. Judging by the photos, it is hard to believe that this is a passenger car, but the designers were very warm to their child.

So, for example, in some sources, the debut variation constructed in 58th year, had the nice name NAMI-049 “Ogonek”. There was a permanent all-wheel drive, interaxle and pair of interwheel differentials with locks, wheel reducers and independent torsional suspension, located on the longitudinal levers, not too strong fiberglass body and 22 hp motorcycle power unit MD-65.

 

All this fit well with the prototype, but not for the adopted combat vehicle. Therefore, the second prototype, NAMI-049A, had an open steel body with a tent. During the design modifications it was decided not to use the axle differential, so that it was possible to move on the roadway, where there is a hard surface, the rear axle was made switchable.

The most important innovation was the installation of a more powerful 27-horsepower V-shaped 4-cylinder engine, the volume of which was about 0.9 liters. It had air cooling – a similar engine was to be delivered to the improved ZAZ-965A. And this is not by chance, because the development was joined by specialists from the Zaporizhzhya Automobile Plant. Just common with the popular “humpback”, and a little later “bumpy”, determined the final architecture, which touched the military transporter, and what kind of car it was turned into after conversion.

Model version

After the transporter was developed, it was delivered for production in Lutsk and named LAZ-967. It will sound strange, but such vehicles were produced from 61 to 89 years and occasionally underwent modernization. The model came into service with the army of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in 69. It was used in the Airborne Troops and motorized rifle units. In addition, it was supplied to the countries of the Warsaw Pact – for example, the GDR army had about 250 vehicles at its disposal.

According to numerous opinions, there are no similar models to date. The last modernization has already touched 967M, which resembled a light jeep, rather than a trolley with an engine. Some parts of the elements were unified with cars of other companies (for example, the electric part was taken from UAZ, and hydraulics was used from Moskvich). The scope of use of the models was significantly expanded – small machine guns were installed on them. Even with the beginning of the 90s, the three-axle versions were shown, but they remained only prototypes.

Lutsk Automobile Plant has a rich and rich history, filled with the development of a large number of advanced technological methods, the introduction of bold and unique ideas, as well as the production of popular vehicles. The Russian rover was a pioneer in many ways. In particular, it was the first time that a four-wheel drive system was installed on it, it became the first car for the people and in particular it was produced specifically for the needs of the rural population.

Interestingly enough, the chauffeur could drive the PPC lying on a chair or crawling next to the vehicle, while holding the steering wheel. This is when there is a heavy gunfire. The engineering staff of the company worked for the glory, producing this car Luaz. The technical equipment of the vehicles was retailed using a whole list of the latest technologies. For example, each wheel had its own gearboxes, increasing the height of the ground clearance.

 

The drive shaft was encased in a pipe, with the help of which the vehicle’s cross-country ability was significantly improved. The wheel suspension was torsional and independent. Taking all this into account, the LuAZ 969 Volyn, was retailed with ease, which was due to the relatively low number of equipment and the presence of a full-supporting construction.

But the model also had its own shortcomings, so since the early 1970s, there has been a start on modernization. Initially, the design staff of the company tried to increase the capacity of the power unit. Moreover, restyling was extended to the undercarriage, bodywork and interior.

Exterior

Despite its small size, the body consists of an integrated frame of the spar frame. The bagpipes are equipped with an awning top, which allows them to be universal. Small doors hang on hinges, thus simplifying installation and disassembly. The 969 model also differs from other machines in that the wipers are attached from above and not like the rest of the machines – from below, which is a positive moment when driving in bad weather.

Whereas in the previous model the arcs were only needed to attach the tarpaulin, in the “M” version they are already in a fortified condition. They protected the interior as the machine tilted over. When updating the Luaz-969M received a new lighting equipment. The doors were locked with locks and seat belts.

One of the most serious drawbacks of the bagpipes body was its predisposition to corrosion. But this minus can be easily solved with a simple brush. Awning, especially has no negative moments, but those who like to travel through the forest roads, should put a solid roof of metal. Then it will not be afraid that the branches will be able to tear the roof. With the arrival of the update, changed the appearance of the vehicle. For the first time, “Volynka” began to have full-fledged windows.

In addition, special attention was paid to the moment with sound insulation. A different shape of windshield windshield was installed and the doors were already with locks (this is something you thought you hadn’t installed locks before!). The front bodywork was not so angular and the car looked different.

It is not so easy to believe, but a small car, from a small town in the big Soviet Union, was able to achieve international recognition. It is clear that the off-road car market was a bit different in the past, but this does not change the essence of the matter.

Salon

The SUV seat was borrowed from ZAZ. Among the sensors and devices you can find an ammeter that shows the voltage in the mains. By the way, the transmission oil temperature is also displayed for the driver. Finishing of the interior, to put it mildly, leaves much to be desired. Everything is very simple and in retro style. The car was obviously created not for city traffic, but mainly for off-road driving, and therefore for the village.

The dashboard, which is standard for army vehicles, has a more civilian appearance and has become more visually pleasing. Some of the inconveniences come from the seats, especially the rear seats. Very often, vehicle owners decide to change the door upholstery and ceiling covering. This serves to reduce noise. When the car was upgraded, it began to have:

• Updated front panel;
• Other form of windscreen;
• Doors with locks and window frames;
• Plastic dashboard;
• Injury safe steering column and armchairs by Liguli.

After the collapse of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in 1991, Ukraine decided to withdraw from the Soviet Union, so it had already become an independent state. The automobile company’s ties with the Russian Federation were terminated.

In addition to the powertrain, the 1302 model borrowed seats from Tavria, because it was impossible to take from Zhiguli. “Volyn”, was distinguished by a good capacity and solid transport properties. If the tailgate could be folded back, it was possible to transport rather impressive dimensions there. Many asceticism of the car interior is explained by the fact that during the application of the model in rural areas, where there will be inevitable dust and dirt, comfort and rich interior decoration, would be the last thing to do. Why not? Because cleaning it would always be a problem.

Of course, there is a tarpaulin top, under which it is very hot in summer, and in cold weather – cool, so you have to warm up by hand methods. But together with the driver, can go hunting or fishing six quite massive representatives of the strong side of humanity in the hunting outfit – and this is not every car can. In the case when the rear seats are unfolded, the 969th model can bring 400 kg of extra luggage, which will be very useful for fishermen and hunters.

 

Specifications

Powertrain

The LuAZ-969M is powered by a V-shaped and air-cooled MEMZ 969A engine. This, of course, simplifies the design, but on the other hand, does not provide it with proper cooling if necessary. The unit is supplied with a volume of 1.2 litres and produces 40 horsepower. One of the drawbacks of the Luaz vehicle is the power unit that migrated from Zaporozhets. In the middle of the main drawbacks, it is:

• Permanent oil filling;
• Not durable and reliable (average motor life of about 50-60 000 km)
• It’s very noisy and very weak.

Therefore, if you plan to buy this SUV, you should stock up on a second spare engine.

A similar engine was installed on some Zaporozhets cars. Based on passport data, the average fuel consumption of this mini SUV when driving at 60 km/h is 10.0 liters per hundred. In other words, a full tank of gasoline “Volynka” should suffice on 300 – 350 km of a way. But it should be understood that this car Luaz 969, will not allow to develop a much higher maximum speed, as it is set at 85 km / h.

However, this is not surprising, because it was not created not for racing tracks, and for driving on the road, where it fully reveals its advantages. It wouldn’t be superfluous to say that the native engine can be finished so that its power will be increased to 50 horsepower. This can be called the best solution, because the engine from other cars will cause too much stress, and this in turn will lead to repeated breakdowns. A-76 gasoline is used. It accelerates up to 80 km/h in 24 seconds.

Transmission

Synchronized engine with 4-speed manual transmission. The tank capacity is 34 litres. 969M has an independent torsional suspension. LuAZ is equipped with a reduction gear, which provides the necessary start and force before any obstacle.

In standard mode, the machine is driven by the front wheels, but if necessary, you can connect the rear axle and lock the rear differential. Hydraulic drum brakes are fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle. The machine provides an acceptable passability.

Transmission stands out for its reliable qualities, although it has its own “surprises”, on the example of mixed transmissions, etc. The gearbox is quite durable, so problems with it, if any, are very rare. But it also has its own “surprises” in the form of mixed up speeds, and so on. All forward speeds have an additional reduction gear. Clutch is single disc, dry. If to speak about transmission on the car the simple design which will not cause problems at automobile fans is established rather simply.

But the only drawback is that it is not easy to find the right parts, because Loise has long been out of production. The details themselves are quite democratic in value. Given the feedback from the owners of this SUV, we can conclude that most of them are positive characteristics.

Suspension

The height of the ground clearance is 280 millimeters. The type of front and rear suspension is independent, torsional, with longitudinal levers on the suspension axis. Also provided for the installation of hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers double-sided functioning.

Brake system. It was borrowed from Muscovich 412th, which in turn does not show good quality. The drive is hydraulic, double-circuit. There is a hydro-vacuum amplifier in the hydraulic drive circuit of the front wheels. Manual parking brake of lever-rope type, acts on the rear wheels brakes.

 

Rail control

It does not have a hydraulic power steering. The steering mechanism includes a globoidal worm with a double-roller. The steering drive has a bipod, longitudinal steering rod, steering trapeze with left and right pendulum arms, as well as swiveling fists.

The steering column looks good if it is competently looked after, for example, regularly lubricate the steering rods with a syringe. Wheel gearboxes often start to leak. Therefore, it is necessary to have repair skills, which, by the way, you will acquire by repairing the Loise.

Specifications

Length, mm	3390
Width, mm	1610
High, mm	1780
Traffic clearance, mm	280
Forward, mm	1325
Rear wheels, mm	1320
Wheelbase, mm	1800
Up diameter, m	10
Concentrated mass, kg	960
Gross mass, kg	1360
Drive	full
Motor type	gasoline
Cylinder number / location	4/V-shaped
Motor power, hp/rpm	40/4200
Motor volume, cm³	1200
Fuel type	A-76
Tank volume, l.	34
Maximum speed, km/h.	90
Fuel consumption in the urban cycle, l per 100 km.	15.0
Fuel consumption on the highway, l per 100 km.	10.0
Mixed cycle fuel flow, l per 100 km.	12.0
Gearbox type	mechanical, 4 transmissions
Front/rear suspension	independent, torsional
Forward/Rear Brakes	Drum
Bus size	175/80 R13
Disc size	4.5J X 13

Modifications

As you know, the TPC, which was able to give birth to our model, had several modifications, for example – three-axle cars. It is clear that “Volyn” itself has a lot of variations. Interestingly, the overwhelming majority of the trucks were produced in the post-Soviet period on the platform of the machine 1302.

At one time, the company tried to comply with the laws of the market economy and manage to fulfill the state order. There is information about the models, where there is a body, elongated wheelbase, hard top, elongated rear overhang and four doors.

There was also a special version of “Foros”, which had a “jeeper” appearance and an original 6-wheeled floating “Geologist”. These transport models of the “birthmark” of the front end army vehicle could easily pass in those places where more massive models of GAZ, UAZ and Niva simply “surrendered”.

Separation 969

• Luaz-969B – the model was produced in the period from 1967 to 1971 and was a temporary version with front drive.
• Luaz-969 – produced the machine from 1971 to 1975. It was a serial variation and had the wheel arrangement 4×4.
• Luaz-969A – produced from 1975 to 1979. The truck was the first modernization with the power unit MeMZ-969A.
• Luaz-969M is the second modernisation vehicle produced from 1979 to 1992. The model came with an updated body.

Safety and security

If we talk about the durability and reliability of this vehicle, there are many conflicting opinions among drivers. A clear advantage is the Zaporizhzhya power system, which is included in the equipment of the machine. It is located at the front, which allows you to avoid difficulties with its overheating. However, it also has its own strong disadvantage – low engine power reserve.

Speaking of the devices that ensure the safety of the driver and passengers of the car, this model simply does not have them. There are no seat belts, pillows, which are simply “stuffed” with the latest generation cars. Such solutions can be explained quite easily – in those years when the car was designed, no one thought about it much. Therefore, driving such an off-road car, you will be able to get a unique experience that can not be found on modern jeeps.

Prices and equipment

Since the vehicle has been removed from production for a long time, it is possible to buy it only from the second hand. In order not to make a wrong choice, it is necessary to scrupulously find a car and reconsider the whole stack of ads.

Often it happens so that the car was exposed to corrosion, and it is very unpleasant when the rust eats the bottom. Generally speaking, “Volynka” has always had such a drawback, so following the purchase, often car owners have nothing left to do but cook the body in a new way.

While looking at the other side of its cost, which ranges from 200 to 1,000 $, the compact Soviet SUV can be forgiven if not all, then a lot of things. Interestingly, in the network you can find ads, where the Lutsk car is sold from 3000 to 5000 $.

It is clear that based on this cost, the technical condition of these cars is as if they have recently left the assembly line, or their tuning was done. Although the easiest way to buy a model for $200 is to “modernize” it with your own efforts, provided that there will be free time.

Pros and cons

We sum up

In spite of the simplicity of the salon and its unobtrusive appearance, the Luaz-969M is perfect for fishing and hunting enthusiasts and will find its application in the countryside. Among the advantages we can highlight: low price of the car, ease of repair, abundance of various spare parts, good off-road accessibility.

Of course, there are also disadvantages: lack of attractive interior, appearance and comfortable seats, still a weak engine, narrow wheels, which especially when loading the car will sink into the ground, lack of water cooling.

But for such a cost of the vehicle can be forgiven for many flaws. The car can be easily upgraded and modernized according to its own taste and preferences. Of course, due to weak powertrain the model is not as sharp as it was wanted to be, but for a quiet and measured journey, or hunting and fishing, it will be perfect.

In the car you can put a large number of necessary things. In winter, the cabin is not as warm as you would like it to be, so it will be necessary to take warm things with you. The interior itself can also be redesigned, improving its upholstery and front panel. No one would have thought that the Lutsk car would become so popular, but it happened.

We advise you to read the article: History of Lutsk Automobile Plant

Luaz-969 photo

Luaz-969 drawing

Test drive

Video overview