Czech truck Škoda 706 RTTN - a true legend of the Soviet and Eastern European automotive industry. This model, released in the 1960s, became a symbol of reliability and unpretentiousness, gaining popularity not only in Czechoslovakia, but also abroad. More than 30 years Škoda 706 RTTN remained in demand due to its simple design, maintainability and ability to adapt to the harshest operating conditions.
Today these trucks are a rarity, but many examples are still in working order, and some have even been restored by enthusiasts. In this article we will look at technical specifications, history of creation, features of the engine and transmission, and also give practical advice on maintenance and repair. If you are the owner Škoda 706 RTTN or are simply interested in retro technology, here you will find answers to key questions.
The history of the Škoda 706 RTTN: from military equipment to civilian use
Origins Škoda 706 RTTN go back to the post-war years, when Czechoslovakia needed reliable trucks to rebuild its economy. The first prototypes appeared in the early 1950s based on military equipment, but mass production of the civilian version started only in 1961. Abbreviation RTTN stands for:
- 🚛 R — Rámový (frame)
- 🔧 T — Třínápravový (triaxial)
- 🏗️ T — Tahač (tractor)
- 💨 N — Nákladní (freight)
Initially, the model was developed as a universal platform for transporting goods, construction, and even as a chassis for buses. I wonder what Škoda 706 RTTN became the first Czechoslovak car with a diesel engine of its own design, which at that time was a serious technological breakthrough. Trucks were supplied to the USSR from the 1960s to the 1980s, where they were used in agriculture, forestry and construction.
Production continued until 1983, and the total circulation exceeded 120 thousand copies. Despite obsolescence, many machines were in use until the 2000s, which indicates their exceptional survivability.
- In films or archival footage
- On the roads as a child
- In the museum of retro technology
- From friends or relatives
- Never seen
Technical characteristics: engine, transmission and payload
With my heart Škoda 706 RTTN became diesel engine Škoda 706 RT — six-cylinder in-line unit with a displacement 11.78 l and power 130–150 hp (depending on modification). Features of the power plant:
- ⚙️ No turbocharging — naturally aspirated engine with mechanical fuel injection.
- ⛽ Fuel consumption - about
24–28 l/100 km(by the standards of that time this was acceptable). - 🔥 Cooling system — liquid, with forced circulation.
- 🛠️ Engine life - with proper maintenance exceeded
500,000 km.
Transmission presented 5-speed manual transmission with unsynchronized first gear and double-disc clutch. The suspension was dependent, on longitudinal semi-elliptical springs, which ensured high cross-country ability on dirt roads. The carrying capacity of the basic version was 8–10 tons, and with a trailer - up to 20 tons.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Length × Width × Height | 7.8 × 2.5 × 2.8 m |
| Wheel formula | 6×4 (driving rear axles) |
| Maximum speed | 75 km/h |
| Fuel tank volume | 200 l |
| Brake system | Pneumatic, with drum mechanisms |
One of the key advantages Škoda 706 RTTN — simplicity of design. For example, the engine could be disassembled and reassembled with a minimum set of tools, and many parts were unified with other models Škoda and LIAZ.
When starting a cold engine Škoda 706 RTTN Be sure to use ether spray to make starting easier - this will extend the life of the starter and battery.
Modifications and specialized versions
Over the years of production Škoda 706 RTTN was produced in several modifications, adapted for different tasks:
- Basic cargo version - a flatbed truck with a wooden or metal platform.
- Dump truck Škoda 706 RTS — for transportation of bulk cargo (coal, sand, crushed stone).
- Tractor Škoda 706 RTT - for towing trailers and semi-trailers.
- Bus chassis Škoda 706 RTO - basis for city and intercity buses (for example, Karosa ŠM 11).
- Special equipment - fire trucks, cranes, utility vehicles.
It's interesting that at the base 706 RTTN were even created armored vehicles for the police and army. For example, in Czechoslovakia, armored cars were built on this chassis to guard the state border.
In the USSR, dump trucks were the most common Škoda 706 RTS, which were actively used in quarries and road construction. They were distinguished by increased frame strength and a reinforced rear axle.
What buses were built on the basis of the Škoda 706 RTO?
On chassis Škoda 706 RTO buses were produced Karosa ŠM 11 (long-distance), ŠL 11 (suburban) and ŠD 11 (long-distance). These machines were used in Czechoslovakia, the USSR, the GDR and other countries of the socialist camp. A special feature was the location of the engine at the front, which simplified access for maintenance, but worsened driver comfort due to noise.
Operation and maintenance: tips for owners
If you own Škoda 706 RTTN or planning to purchase it, it is important to consider the features of servicing retro equipment. Here are the key points:
Check the condition of the frame for rust and cracks|Evaluate the compression in the engine cylinders (the norm is not lower than 28–30 kg/cm²)|Make sure the air brake system is working|Check the play in the steering and axles|Inspect the condition of the wooden platform (if it is original)-->
Engine requires regular checking:
- 🔧 Oil - replace every
10,000 km(use mineral or semi-synthetic oil with a viscosity15W-40). - ⛽ Fuel filter - clean or change every
5,000 km(clogging leads to a drop in power). - 🔥 Cooling system — monitor the antifreeze level and the condition of the radiator (overheating is a common problem).
Transmission and chassis:
- ⚙️ Gearbox — check the oil level and the condition of the synchronizers (first gear often fails due to the lack of a synchronizer).
- 🛞 Bridges - lubricate the hub bearings every
20,000 km. - 🚗 Springs - Inspect for cracks and wear of the bushings.
⚠️ Attention! Never use modern high octane diesel fuels (e.g. Euro 5/6) without special additives. Old engines Škoda 706 are designed for Soviet diesel fuel with a low cetane number, and modern fuel can cause premature wear of the fuel pump.
Typical faults and solutions
Despite the reliability Škoda 706 RTTN has a number of “diseases” characteristic of equipment of this age:
| Malfunction | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Airing of the fuel system, wear of plunger pairs | Bleed the system, check the fuel pump |
| Engine overheating | Radiator clogged, water pump faulty | Flush the radiator, replace the pump |
| Oil leak from gearbox | Worn seals, cracks in the crankcase | Replace seals, repair cracks |
| Weak braking system | Air leak in the pneumatic system, pad wear | Check tightness, replace pads |
One of the most common problems is clutch wear. Signs:
- 🔄 The clutch "drives" (does not disengage completely).
- 💨 A burning smell appears when touched.
- 🚗 Vibrations during acceleration.
The solution is to adjust the pedal free play or replace the discs. Also often fails generator (especially if the car has been standing motionless for a long time). In this case, check the brushes and windings, if necessary, install a generator from LIAZ - they are interchangeable.
The most vulnerable part Škoda 706 RTTN — pneumatic braking system. Regularly check the tightness of the hoses and the condition of the compressor to avoid accidents.
Restoration and tuning: how to bring a retro truck back to life
Restoration Škoda 706 RTTN - a fascinating but labor-intensive process. Main stages:
- Diagnostics — assessment of the condition of the frame, engine and body.
- Disassembly — dismantling of all components for troubleshooting.
- Body restoration — replacement of rotten elements, sandblasting.
- Engine repair — boring of cylinders, replacement of piston rings, restoration of the cylinder head.
- Assembly and painting - use of original colors (most often gray or khaki).
For tuning, owners often install:
- 🔋 Modern generator (for example, from MAN or Mercedes).
- 🔥 Turbine (to increase power, but this requires modification of the engine).
- 🎨 LED optics (keeping the original headlight design).
- 🛠️ Hydraulic steering (instead of the standard worm).
It is important to save authenticity - many collectors value original parts. For example, a steering wheel with a logo Škoda, a dashboard with mechanical gauges or a wooden platform with a factory mark.
⚠️ Attention! When restoring, avoid using modern polymer materials for the body - they are incompatible with the original steel and can cause corrosion. It is better to use traditional fiberglass-based putties.
Where to buy Škoda 706 RTTN today: prices and offers
Find Škoda 706 RTTN in good condition - not an easy task, but possible. Main sources:
- 🌍 Czech Republic and Slovakia — here are the most offers, prices from
10,000 to 50,000 €depending on the condition. - 🇷🇺 Russia and CIS countries - there are copies at a price
RUB 300,000–1,500,000, but often require major repairs. - 🇩🇪 Germany and Poland — restored copies for collectors (price can reach up to
80 000 €).
When purchasing, pay attention to:
- 📄 Availability of documents (especially if the car is imported from abroad).
- 🔧 Frame condition — rust in the side members can make restoration pointless.
- 🚗 Completeness — original parts (for example, cabin, headlights, steering wheel) significantly increase the cost.
Popular search sites:
If you are looking for a car to restore, take a look at slow-moving copies - they are cheaper, but will require more investment. Ready-to-use trucks are significantly more expensive, but allow you to start using them immediately.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Škoda 706 RTTN
Is it possible to operate the Škoda 706 RTTN in Russia today?
Yes, but with reservations. The car must be registered with the traffic police as retro technology (category "Vehicles over 30 years old"). To do this you will need:
- Obtaining a title (if the car is not in the database, an examination will be required).
- Passing a technical inspection (taking into account the age of the equipment, the norms are more loyal).
- Obtaining MTPL insurance (possibly for a truck or tractor).
Important: in some regions there may be restrictions on the movement of trucks over 30 years old due to environmental regulations.
What kind of oil should I put into the Škoda 706 RTTN engine?
Recommended to use mineral or semi-synthetic oil with viscosity:
15W-40(for temperate climates)10W-40(for cold regions)
Important: Avoid modern energy-saving oils with low viscosity (e.g. 5W-30) - they will not provide sufficient protection for an old engine. Optimal choice: Lukoil Standard 15W-40 or Castrol GTX 15W-40.
Where can I find spare parts for the Škoda 706 RTTN?
Spare parts can be found:
- 🇨🇿 In the Czech Republic - companies Škoda Truck Parts or LIAZ Service.
- 🇷🇺 In Russia - through retro technology clubs (for example, Oldtimer Club).
- 🌍 At international auctions - eBay, Allegro.pl.
Many parts are interchangeable with LIAZ 100 and Tatra 138. It is also possible to produce custom parts (for example, pistons, bushings).
How much does the Škoda 706 RTTN weigh?
Truck weight in running order:
- Basic version —
7,200 kg. - Dump truck 706 RTS —
7,500 kg. - Tractor 706 RTT —
6,800 kg.
Gross weight (laden) - up to 16,000 kg.
Is it possible to install a modern diesel engine on the Škoda 706 RTTN?
Technically possible, but it will require serious modifications:
- Replacement of engine and gearbox mounts.
- Adaptation of the cooling system and electrical wiring.
- Changing the fuel system (installing Common Rail instead of a mechanical injection pump).
Popular options for swap:
- Deutz BF6M1013 (130–180 hp)
- Cummins 6BT (160–210 hp)
- MAN D0826 (150–200 hp)
However, such tuning deprives the car of historical value, so it is only advisable for working copies.