Austrian SUV Steyr "Machine Brother 2" (or Steyr 12M18 according to the factory classification) is a legendary car, created on the basis of the Soviet GAZ-66, but with serious modifications to European standards. The vehicle was developed in the 1980s as a multi-purpose military and civilian transport capable of overcoming off-road conditions, transporting cargo and operating in extreme conditions. Although production was limited, these cars are still prized for their reliability, simplicity of construction, and unique design.
Today Car Brother 2** is a rarity on the road, but is in steady demand among SUV enthusiasts and collectors. Owning such a car requires specific knowledge: the features of servicing a diesel engine Steyr WD615 to the nuances of the transfer case and suspension. In this article we will analyze the structure of the car, typical breakdowns, repair methods and tuning options - from budget to deep modernization.
If you are planning a purchase, restoration or just want to understand why this Austrian "brother" GAZ-66 so unusual - read on. We have collected all the relevant information, including step by step instructions, diagrams and advice from owners with many years of experience.
Technical characteristics of Steyr “Machine Brother 2”
Under the hood Steyr 12M18 hiding diesel engine Steyr WD615 - six-cylinder in-line unit with a volume of 5.9 liters, developing 136 hp at 2500 rpm. This motor is famous for its “indestructibility”: with proper maintenance, it easily passes 500,000+ km without major repairs. However, there are also weaknesses - for example, sensitivity to fuel quality and a tendency to overheat under prolonged loads.
Transmission includes 5-speed manual transmission ZF S5-42 (licensed version from Steyr) and a two-speed transfer case with a locking center differential. Suspension: dependent, on semi-elliptic springs, with telescopic shock absorbers. Ground clearance is 360 mm, which allows you to overcome serious off-road conditions.
Load capacity of the machine - up to 2 tons, and the total weight reaches 5.5 tons. The body is all-metal, with folding sides and an awning (in the army version). In civilian modifications, homemade superstructures are often found, for example, for expeditions or transportation of special equipment.
- 🔧 Engine: Steyr WD615, 5.9 l, 136 hp, diesel
- 🔗 Transmission: Manual transmission 5speed + transfer case with differential lock
- 🚙 Suspension: dependent, spring, ground clearance 360 mm
- 📦 Load capacity: up to 2000 kg
- ⛽ Fuel consumption: 18–22 l/100 km (depending on load)
Device and design features
Steyr "Machine Brother 2"** inherited from GAZ-66 frame and layout, but received many European modifications. For example, the cabin has been completely redesigned: it has become wider, higher and more comfortable, with improved sound insulation. The interior now has an adjustable driver's seat and a heater. Webasto (in some versions) and a more ergonomic instrument panel.
One of the key features is all-wheel drive system with rigidly connected front axle. Unlike many modern SUVs, there are no "automatic" modes - the driver manually controls the locks and downshifts. This requires skill, but gives full control of the machine in difficult conditions.
Brake system - hydraulic, with a vacuum booster, but without ABS (in basic versions). The steering is equipped with a hydraulic booster ZF, which makes it easier to maneuver off-road. Electrical equipment runs on a 24-volt network (two 12 V batteries), which is typical for trucks and military vehicles.
Why is the cabin wider than that of the GAZ-66?
Austrian engineers increased the cabin width by 20 cm to improve crew comfort. This made it possible to install wider seats and reduce the "crowding" characteristic of the Soviet prototype.
| Component | Characteristics | Difference from GAZ-66 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Steyr WD615, 5.9 l, 136 hp | More modern turbocharged diesel (optional) |
| Cabin | All-metal, 3-seater | 20 cm wider, better sound insulation |
| Suspension | Spring, with shock absorbers | Stiffer springs for increased load capacity |
| Brakes | Hydraulic, drum | Additional vacuum booster |
Common malfunctions and their causes
Despite the legendary reliability, Steyr “Machine Brother 2”** has typical “illnesses” associated with age and design features. Here are the most common problems:
- Engine overheating - occurs due to a clogged radiator, pump or thermostat malfunction. This is especially true when driving at low speeds with a high load.
- Oil leaks — the crankshaft and camshaft oil seals become “tanned” over time, and the gaskets lose their elasticity. Most often the rear crankshaft oil seal leaks.
- Transfer case problems — wear of downshift gears or bearings. It manifests itself as a crunching sound when switching or spontaneous gear switching off.
- Electrical “glitches”** - oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, generator malfunctions (especially on machines with a 24-volt system).
Another common problem is spring wear. Over time, they sag, which leads to a decrease in ground clearance and deterioration in handling. Also suffer ball joints front axle (if they are in the modification) and cardan shaft crosspieces.
⚠️ Attention: If the engine starts to stall at idle, don’t rush to blame the fuel pump. Most often the problem lies in clogged injectors or air leaks in the fuel line. Check these nodes first!
Step-by-step instructions for changing engine and transmission oil
Service regulations Steyr WD615 provides for changing the engine oil every 10,000 km (or once a year), in transmission - every 30,000 km. Use only high quality oils with diesel engine approvals API CF-4 or higher. Suitable for transmission SAE 80W-90 GL-5.
What you will need:
- 🛢️ Engine oil (12 l) and transmission oil (3 l for gearbox + 1.5 l for transfer case)
- 🔧 24 mm wrench (for drain plug)
- 🧰 Oil filter (Mann W914/2 or equivalent)
- 🧻 Rags, container for draining waste
Procedure:
- Warm up the engine to operating temperature (the oil will become less viscous).
- Place the machine on a level surface or overpass. Place a container under the drain hole.
- Unscrew the drain plug (24 mm wrench) and drain the oil. Let drain for 10-15 minutes.
- Replace the oil filter. Before installing a new filter, lubricate the rubber O-ring with fresh oil.
- Tighten the drain plug, pour new oil through the neck (volume - 12 l). Check the level with a dipstick.
- To change the oil in the gearbox and transfer case, use separate containers. Drain and filler plugs are located on the housings of the units.
☑️ Preparing for an oil change
⚠️ Attention: Never mix oils of different brands or types (for example, mineral and synthetic). This may cause sediment to form and blockage of oil channels, which can lead to engine overheating.
Tuning and modernization: from budget to radical changes
Owners Steyr “Machine Brother 2”** are divided into two camps: some strive to preserve the car in its original form, others want to turn it into a modern SUV. Let's consider popular tuning areas:
1. Budget tuning (up to 100,000 ₽)
- 🔦 Installation of LED headlights and fog lights (for example, Hella or Osram).
- 🎵 Audio system upgrade: radio with
Bluetooth, speakers in the door. - 🪑 Replacing seats with more comfortable ones (for example, from Mercedes Sprinter).
- 🔥 Installation of pre-heater (Webasto or Eberspächer).
2. Deep modernization (from 300,000 ₽)
- 🔧 Replacing the engine with a more powerful one (for example, Cummins 4BT or Deutz BF6M).
- 🦾 Installation of an automatic transmission (for example, Allison 1000).
- 🚜 Suspension upgrade: air springs or reinforced springs to increase load capacity.
- 🛡️ Installation of armored glass and crankcase protection (relevant for expedition vehicles).
One of the most popular options is replacing the standard engine with Cummins 4BT. This 3.9-liter turbodiesel develops up to 160 hp. and has a huge resource. However, such a swap requires modifications to the mountings, cooling system and electrical system.
Before installing a new engine, be sure to check the compatibility of the transmission. For example, Cummins 4BT fits well with gearbox ZF S5-42, but it may be necessary to replace the clutch with a reinforced one.
Legal nuances: registration, technical inspection and operation
Operation Steyr "Machine Brother 2"** in Russia is associated with a number of legal subtleties. Firstly, the car belongs to the category N1 (trucks up to 3.5 tons) or N2 (over 3.5 tons), depending on modification. This means that management requires category rights C (if the weight exceeds 3.5 tons).
Secondly, during registration there may be difficulties with PTS. Many cars were imported from Europe or Austria without a complete package of documents. In this case, you will have to restore the history through customs or go to court to recognize ownership.
Technical inspection is carried out according to the standards for trucks. Inspectors pay special attention to:
- 🔦 The condition of the brake system (check at the stand is required).
- 🔊Noise and exhaust levels (norms
Euro 2orEuro-3, depending on the year of manufacture). - 🚨 Availability of a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and emergency stop sign.
⚠️ Attention: If your car was in military use, the title may have a “special purpose” mark. This will complicate registration with the traffic police. We recommend that you consult with a motor vehicle lawyer in advance.
Where to buy spare parts and accessories for Steyr “Machine Brother 2”
Due to the rarity of the model, it can be difficult to find original spare parts, but there are several proven methods:
- Specialized forums - for example, Steyr-Club.ru or Gaz66.ru, where owners sell used parts.
- European online stores — Steyr-Teile.de or Military-Vehicles.net. Even rare units can be found here, but delivery may take up to a month.
- Universal analogues - many parts (for example, bearings, seals, filters) are suitable from Mercedes, MAN or Iveco.
- Made to order — some parts (for example, springs or body elements) can be ordered from blacksmiths or car mechanics.
Prices for spare parts vary from budget (for example, oil filter - ~500 ₽) to very expensive (cylinder block - ~150,000 ₽). Average cost of engine overhaul Steyr WD615 in the service - 200 000–300 000 ₽ (with spare parts).
| Spare part | Original (€) | Analogue (₽) | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil filter | 15–20 | 400–600 | Exist.ru, Autodoc |
| Crankshaft oil seal | 30–50 | 1 200–1 800 | Steyr-Teile.de |
| Fuel pump | 400–600 | 25 000–35 000 | Diesel-Master (RF) |
| Springs (set) | 200–300 | 15 000–25 000 | Blacksmith workshops |
Before purchasing used parts, be sure to check their condition. For example, springs may have microcracks, and fuel pumps may have hidden wear on the plunger pairs.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Steyr “Machine Brother 2”
Is it possible to install a KamAZ engine on the Brother 2 Car?
Theoretically, yes, but this will require serious modifications. Engines KamAZ-740 (V8) is longer and wider, so you will have to modify the frame and mounts. In addition, the gearbox and cooling system will need to be adapted. Such a swap is only suitable for expeditionary projects where increased power is needed.
What is the fuel consumption of the Steyr WD615 on the highway and off-road?
On the highway at a speed of 80–90 km/h, the consumption is 16–18 l/100 km. In the city or off-road it grows to 22–25 l/100 km, and when fully loaded or towed it can reach 30 l/100 km. To reduce consumption, it is recommended to maintain engine speed in the range 1,800–2,200 rpm.
What oil is best to fill in the transfer case?
Transmission oil is suitable for transfer case and gearbox SAE 80W-90 GL-5. Popular brands: Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus, Liqui Moly Hypoid-Getriebeoil or ZIC G-FF. Replacement required every 30,000 km or once every 2 years (depending on operating conditions).
How to check the authenticity of “Brother Machine 2” when purchasing?
Original Steyr 12M18 has the following characteristics:
- A plate with the serial number on the frame (to the right in the direction of travel).
- Engine markings WD615 on the cylinder block.
- Availability of Austrian or German components (for example, gearbox ZF, steering Steyr).
- Documents mentioned Steyr-Daimler-Puch (manufacturer).
Beware of "relabeled" GAZ-66 - they are often passed off as Steyr.
Is it possible to use the Brother 2 Car for commercial transportation?
Yes, but with reservations. The machine is classified as a truck, so the following is required:
- Category rights
C(if weight > 3.5 tons). - Tachograph (if used for carriage for hire).
- Passing a technical inspection every 6 months (for commercial vehicles).
However, due to the age of the car and the lack of modern safety systems (for example, ABS or ESP) its use for commercial purposes may be limited by insurance companies.