The UAZ Bukhanka, Hunter and other Soviet 4x4s are legendary for conquering terrain where modern vehicles turn back. Yet their greatest asset is that you can fix them yourself almost anywhere — if you bring the right gear. This list combines decades of real-world experience to keep you prepared for any situation.
Essential Spare Parts That Could Save Your Trip
Breakdowns in remote areas don't have to ruin your journey. Bringing these spares means you can fix problems quickly instead of waiting days for help.
- Spare drive belts for alternator and water pump: Without these, your engine can overheat or your battery can drain, leaving you stranded.
- Wheel nuts and studs: UAZ threads aren’t universal; damaged or lost studs can stop you in your tracks.
- Wheel bearings and hub seals: Essential for keeping your wheels turning smoothly, especially after river crossings or muddy trails.
- Cross joints for propshafts with circlips: U-joints wear out, and having replacements keeps power flowing to your wheels.
- Brake pads, shoes, hoses and cylinders: Harsh terrain and heavy loads wear out brakes quickly — spares ensure you can stop safely.
- Clutch master and slave cylinders and complete clutch assembly: If your clutch fails, you won’t move. Carrying these means you’re ready for clutch troubles.
- Fuel pump (mechanical) and small 12V electric backup pump: Fuel delivery is critical; a backup pump keeps you running if the main one fails.
- Air, fuel, and oil filters: In dusty or muddy conditions, clean filters keep your engine healthy.
- Ignition components (plugs, leads, coil) and key sensors (oxygen, oil pressure, ABS): Ignition problems can stop your engine cold. Spares help you troubleshoot and fix on the spot.
- Full gasket set plus rocker cover gasket: Prevents oil leaks and ensures your engine runs clean and efficiently.
- Coolant hoses and temperature sender: Overheating can cause severe damage; these parts keep cooling systems functional.
- Exhaust mounts and hardware: Keeps your exhaust system secure, preventing noise, leaks and damage.
- Selection of bolts, nuts and washers in original thread pitches: Original-spec fasteners avoid thread mismatch and keep repairs solid.
The Non-Negotiable Five Tools
Ask any experienced Russian UAZ mechanic, and these five tools are always with them. They are the backbone of every roadside repair:
- Grease gun with needle adapter: U-joints, kingpins, and steering pivots dry out fast after water or mud crossings; regular greasing keeps them working.
- Compact hand oil pump: Keeps linkages, locks, and clutch pivots moving smoothly between services.
- High-lift jack with sturdy wooden blocks: Essential for lifting on sand, mud, or snow. Blocks add stability and extra height.
- Long ring spanners (19 mm & 22 mm) plus extension pipe: The Russian secret to loosening seized suspension or driveline bolts — leverage.
- 12-volt test lamp (“контролька”): Quick and foolproof for diagnosing electrical faults, always paired with spare wire, fuses, and crimp connectors.
Expanded Toolkit – For Those Who Go Far
After you cover the essentials, these tools keep you prepared for deeper repairs and adjustments when far from help:
- Full set of combination spanners and sockets sized for UAZ parts.
- Spark plug socket tailored to your engine.
- Torque wrench for accurate reassembly — prevents damage from overtightening or loosening.
- Pliers, locking pliers, and side cutters for gripping and cutting tasks.
- Multimeter for deeper electrical diagnostics.
- Impact screwdriver for stubborn screws that won’t budge.
- Small and large hammers for persuasion or adjustments.
- Measuring tape to check cables, hoses, and belts for wear or replacement.
- Penetrating oil (WD40 or equivalent) to free seized parts.
- Silicone spray and petroleum jelly to protect seals and connectors.
- Flexible grease hose for hard-to-reach grease nipples.
- 12V compressor capable of inflating off-road tires.
- Heavy-duty tow strap (6 m, rated for 5 tons) for recovery or pulling.
- Ratchet straps for securing cargo or temporary fixes.
- Compact folding shovel and small axe for digging or clearing obstacles.
- Work gloves with good grip, even when oily or wet.
Survival Tricks from Russian & Eastern Bloc Drivers
Beyond tools and spares, these practical hacks have saved many expeditions:
- Double up on wear items: Mud, sand, and steep descents wear brakes fast; many carry two complete sets.
- Water-proof the drivetrain: Extended breathers on axles, gearbox, and transfer case prevent water ingress during deep crossings.
- Carry a fastener kit: Original-spec bolts and nuts prevent thread mismatch and keep repairs reliable abroad.
- Emergency radiator fix: Mustard powder or ground pepper plugs small leaks long enough to reach a workshop.
- Steel pipe multi-tool: A breaker bar, wheel brace extension, and jack handle all in one tool.
- Mini gas torch: Frees seized fasteners and thaws frozen locks.
- Two metres of heavy-gauge wire: For holding exhausts, securing broken latches, or improvising stays.
- Thermal cover or old blanket: Provides warmth when working under the van in snow or protects the engine overnight in extreme cold.
Why This List Matters
Your UAZ can take you where rescue might take days, not hours. Carrying the right spares and tools means you’re self-sufficient — whether it’s clearing a clogged fuel filter on a mountain pass or swapping a broken U-joint in the middle of nowhere. Every item here is a lifeline that turns a potential disaster into just another adventure story.
Want to stock up on the correct lubricants and fluids before you go? Check out our Complete Oils & Fluids Guide with model-specific recommendations.