13 Sep 2024 1 113

Belarus 82.3 – the most modern and improved version of the legendary tractor

Russian farmers, builders and utility workers are well aware of tractor Belarus-82. This equipment has been produced since 1974 without any major changes. Although, the latest modification of the tractor, with index 82.3, even externally differs from the legend.

The new Belarus has become more solid-looking. And this is not only due to the plastic lining. The tractor has received a number of units from more powerful models. Due to this, it has become even more reliable. Although, MTZ-80/82 has always been famous for its resource.

Today we will look at the most modern version of the legendary tractor – Belarus 82.3. Is the model really a successor to traditions, or has it long since slipped into consumer goods, no different in terms of reliability from its Chinese “classmates”?

From this angle, Belarus 82.3 appears significantly larger than its predecessor. Photo: author

By the way, some people still argue about what to call tractors – “Belarus” or “Belarus”. It is safe to say that both options are correct, but it all depends on the year of production of the equipment. Since 1993, all MTZ tractors have been called “Belarus”.

Features of Belarus 82.3

The latest, most modern version of the 80/82 series was presented at the end of 2020. It differs from the MTZ-82.1 primarily in its plastic lining. By the way, for those who prefer the classics, this model is still being produced - it is the most budget-friendly in the line.

External features of the Belarus 82.3 tractor:

✅ New design
✅ Lensed LED headlights
✅ Wide tires

As for the last point, such wheels were also installed on the MTZ-82.2, but in special configurations. The new model comes with these tires even in the basic version.

Belarus 82.3 does not clank with steel lining, it quietly creaks with fashionable plastic. Photo: author

Wide tires not only increase cross-country ability. They allow you to expand the range of application of the tractor with mounted equipment. For example, a front bucket. Builders often complained about these nuances, so the manufacturer decided to fix them.

There is another feature that is unique to the Belarus 82.3 model. We are talking about the muffler mount on the right front pillar. Previously, it obstructed the view, but now the horizon is clear. And the sound of the engine, even at high speeds, has become quieter.

The cabin of the new tractor has also been thoroughly redesigned, and not only externally. Firstly, it now complies with all safety standards. Even according to EU standards. The pillars and roof have been reinforced - the manufacturer claims that the cabin will not collapse when overturned, and this has been confirmed by test results.

The glass is now glued in, and the seals are of higher quality. All this together should protect the tractor driver not only from dust, but also from toxic chemicals and pesticides. And the air conditioner, which is included even in the basic package, will protect the machine operator from the heat.

The tractor seat has air suspension. The side mirrors are now heated and electrically adjustable. In general, even the MTZ-82 in its most modern modification has finally reached technical progress.

Engine

Nothing has changed with the tractor's base. And not only since 1974, when the company began producing the MTZ-80 series, but since the foundation of the Minsk plant. It's the same design, consisting of transmission unit housings and a half-frame made of a pair of longitudinal side members and one crossbar.

The engine of the Belarus 82.3 tractor from MMZ is an old Soviet development. Photo: author

The tractor engine is structurally simple. This power unit has been produced since 1974 and is known as MMZ D-243. It was developed specifically for the new generation 80/82 tractors. What is noteworthy is that the engine is naturally aspirated. Therefore, its power with a volume of 4,75 liters is only 81 hp.

The power unit is, of course, periodically modernized, but there are no "revolutionary" changes. Maybe this is good - they kept the cast-iron cylinder block. The main difference of the new engine, which is installed on the Belarus 82.3, is the fuel system. But still, the fuel equipment is simple.

No control electronics, which means that the engine will work under any conditions, even if the battery fails. This is mechanical injection, a running engine, if not turned off, will rattle until the fuel in the tank runs out.

And the old engine is also structurally designed to "digest" diesel fuel of any quality. This is why Belarus 80/82 tractors have always been loved.

Transmission Features

For a long time, Belarusian equipment was distinguished by its simple design. This is especially true for the MTZ-80/82. So the transmission of tractors of this series was mechanical, without any electronics.

The main unit of the Belarus 82.3 tractor after the engine is the rear axle. Photo: author

But Belarus 82.3 has already received a multi-plate clutch for connecting the front axle. This is the first unit with electrohydraulic control for this model. So the tractor does not have a transfer case.

Instead of a mechanical lever, there is now just a key switch. It works due to a hydraulic pump connected to the engine flywheel. In addition to rear and all-wheel drive, there is a "crossover" mode. This is when the front axle is connected only after the rear one slips.

The tractor transmission now has a step-down reverse gear. Belarus 82.3 now has 18 forward and the same number of reverse gears. Let us recall that the 82.2 model had only 9.

Until 2022, the tractor was equipped with a LuK clutch. The manufacturer does not specify what unit it is now. It may be Chinese, but that is not a fact. One thing is certain - the new petal-type clutch has reduced engine vibrations under load.

Other technical features

The braking system of any wheeled tractor is much more complex than that of a truck. car. It is built into the rear axle. These are multi-plate clutches located on both sides of the crankcase.

The Belarus 82.3 tractor cabin even has an air conditioner. Photo: author

Each wheel brakes separately - different pedals are provided for this. Usually they are connected by a jumper, which is removed in case of work in cramped conditions.

The rear gearbox of the power take-off shaft is new - not mechanical, but hydraulic, with a clutch. Previously, such a unit was installed only on tractors of higher traction classes.

Feedback from machine operators

Overall, the machine operators are happy with the new equipment. But this is primarily because the tractors are new. They will break down less often anyway.

Machine operators note that the presence of air conditioning even in the basic configuration is a plus. Now it is easier to work in the summer. But the improved cabin sealing is not as good as the manufacturer's advertising promised.

The seals do not let dust through, but the smell is felt when working with insecticides. You have to put up with the inconvenience, or modify the cabin, gluing it with additional insulation.

Comparing Belarus 82.3 with the 82.1 model, machine operators note that the new tractor performed better in operation. Firstly, it has a reinforced front axle. Secondly, wider tires have a positive effect on cross-country ability.

The tractor now also has a counterweight at the front. This helps when working with heavy attachments. The Belarus 82.3 no longer rears up like its predecessor.

Now the machine operator's path to a bright future (or a big salary) is illuminated by as many as four LED headlights. Photo: author

They complain about the quality of the drive belts. Now there are two of them, while the MTZ-82.1 had only one. And both break - both on the generator and on the pump. They install belts from third-party manufacturers. It is difficult to say what prevents the factory workers from doing this.

By the way, the new exhaust system turned out to be unreliable. Some mechanics have already had to re-weld it – it fell off due to vibrations. The procedure is not complicated, but the fact itself does not speak in favor of the manufacturer.

Belarus 82.3 has definitely become more attractive in appearance. Only because of this, some buyers choose this tractor. But it is also more expensive than the base 82.1. Whether it is worth overpaying is up to the customers to decide.