How To Drive Sinotruk Howo: Professional Driver’S Guide

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Pre-Driving Preparation for Sinotruk Howo

Before starting your journey in a Sinotruk Howo, it’s important to make sure everything is working properly for your safety and the vehicle’s performance. Follow these steps for pre-driving checks.

Sinotruk Howo Differential and Vehicle System Checks

  • Turn off the wheel and axle differentials: This is crucial to avoid unwanted movement or damage to the vehicle’s differential system.

Adjusting the Driving Mode Based on Load

  • Empty Load: Set the driving mode for minimal weight.
  • Light Load: Adjust for lighter cargo.
  • Standard Load: Adjust for average cargo weight.
  • Heavy Load: Adjust for maximum capacity. This ensures the best performance and safety.

Inspection Before Engine Startup

  • Vehicle Door Check: Make sure the vehicle door is closed properly to avoid accidents caused by an open or improperly closed door.
  • Tire Pressure and Condition: Check the tire pressure and look for visible damage to ensure safe driving.
  • Fluid Levels:
    • Check the oil level to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
    • Inspect other critical fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and hydraulic oil.
  • Hydraulic Oil Cleanliness: Make sure the hydraulic oil is clean and free from contamination. Use the ISO Cleanliness Code 4406 to check cleanliness.
  • Wheel and Axle Differential: Check for damage, leaks, or issues with air line connections.
  • Coupling System Check: If towing a trailer, ensure the kingpin, sliding fifth wheel locking pin, air lines, and electrical connections are secure.

Cabin and Mirror Inspection

  • Mirrors: Adjust mirrors for clear, proper visibility.
  • Cabin Controls: Make sure the seat belts, steering wheel, pedals, horn, lights, and gauges are all working properly.
  • Seat Belt: Always ensure the seat belt is fastened before you start your journey.
  • Temperature Controls: Check that the cabin’s climate control system works to maintain comfort and reduce distractions while driving.

Additional Safety Checks

  • Indicator Lights: Ensure all indicator lights turn off after the system check is complete. Don’t drive until the “STOP” fault indicator disappears.
  • Air Pressure: Make sure the air pressure reaches 0.7 MPa (7 bar) before you start driving.
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Starting the Engine

To start your Sinotruk Howo truck, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Clutch Pedal
    Press the clutch pedal all the way down. This will keep the vehicle from moving when the engine starts.
  2. Turn the Key to the “III” Position
    Turn the ignition key to the “III” position to start the system. The preheating lamp will light up and turn off once the engine starts.
  3. Engine Start Process
    The ECU (Engine Control Unit) checks the crankshaft and camshaft signals to make sure the cylinders are ready for ignition. The starter motor, powered by the battery, will start the engine.
  4. Release the Key
    Once the engine starts, release the key. Don’t leave the key turned for more than 15 seconds to avoid damaging the starter motor.

Key System Self-Check

When the key is in the “ON” position, the system will run a self-check. All instruments will briefly light up for about one second before returning to their normal state.

Warming Up the Vehicle

Before you start driving the Sinotruk Howo, make sure to warm up the vehicle. This helps the engine run smoothly and reduces unnecessary wear.

Preparation Before Warming Up

  • Turn off the wheel differential and axle differential to prevent strain on the drivetrain during warm-up.
  • Adjust the driving mode based on the load. Whether you’re carrying an empty load, light load, standard load, or heavy load, make sure to adjust the mode. This can also help save fuel.

 Warming Up Procedure for Sinotruk Howo Truck

  • Avoid pushing the fuel pedal too deep while warming up. Doing so could cause wear on parts like the pistons, turbo, and air compressor.
  • Warm up the truck for about 5 minutes. Warming up for longer than 5 minutes can lead to carbon build-up in the injectors, causing performance problems.

Important Checks

  • Check system pressures: Make sure the system pressure is over 0.55 MPa (5.5 bar), and the air pressure is at 0.7 MPa (7 bar) before driving. The warning light should go off, and the alarm should stop.
  • Monitor instrument indicators: The indicator lights will turn on, and the instrument pointer will move from 0 to MAX during warm-up. If there are any issues, they will show up on the display.

Coolant and Battery Considerations

  • Coolant temperature: Always check that the coolant temperature is in the safe range. If it’s too high, idle the engine for 3-5 minutes before turning it off to avoid damaging the engine.
  • Battery and electrical system: If the heating device fails due to low voltage (below 23V), wait until the voltage is back to normal, then turn the ignition switch to ON to restart the device.

Regular Inspections

  • Perform regular checks to keep the vehicle in good condition. Regularly inspect the engine oil, fuel filter, and other key systems.
  • Use the right fluids: Always use the recommended oil for the MC engine and the correct engine oil and fuel filters to avoid premature engine wear.

Gearbox Operations

Proper gearbox operation is crucial for smooth driving and engine longevity. Here’s how to handle the gearbox safely and efficiently in the Sinotruk Howo.

Clutch Operation

When shifting gears, press the clutch twice. The first press puts the gear into Neutral. After releasing the clutch, press it again to move to the next gear. This makes the gear transitions smoother.

Shifting Between Low and High Gear Ranges

To shift from low to high gear (like from 5th to 6th gear), switch the valve on the lever from “L” to “H.” Press the clutch, shift into Neutral, release the clutch, and press it again to shift to the next gear. Avoid skipping gears, such as jumping from 4th to 6th, as it can damage the deputy box synchronizer.

Neutral Position

Make sure the gear lever is in Neutral before starting the engine or shifting. You can move the gear lever left or right to select different speed ranges. The double H mechanism lets you switch between gears 1-4 and 5-8.

Speed Considerations

Never shift from high to low range gears when the vehicle speed exceeds 30 km/h. This could damage the transmission system.

RPM Guidelines for Shifting

To shift gears properly, keep the engine within the correct RPM range. Shift from low gears (1 through 5) at 1400 to 1500 rpm, and from high gears (6 through 10) at 1500 to 1600 rpm. This prevents the engine from dropping below 1000 rpm before shifting to the next gear, ensuring smooth transitions.

Starting the Vehicle

To start the vehicle, press the clutch and engage the handbrake. Shift into the desired gear (second gear for flat surfaces), release the handbrake, and slowly let out the clutch while gently pressing the throttle to prevent stalling.

Reverse Gears

The Sinotruk Howo has two reverse gears: Reverse 1 (low) and Reverse 2 (high). Choose the right gear depending on your maneuvering needs.

Low-Speed Gear for Hills

When driving uphill, shift into a low-speed gear before starting the climb. This will give the engine the power it needs to handle the incline without frequent gear shifts.

Driving

Driving a Sinotruk Howo requires focus and skill to operate smoothly and ensure the vehicle lasts. Here are some important tips for driving the Howo.

Release the Brake Before Starting the Vehicle

Before starting the engine, make sure the brake system is ready. For vehicles with air cut-off brakes, check that the brake valves are connected and the air pressure is high enough to release the brake.

Starting Gear

  • On flat roads, start the vehicle in second or third gear. This helps the vehicle accelerate smoothly and gives you better control when starting.

Gear Shifting Technique

  • Always press the clutch pedal fully to disconnect the engine from the gearbox.
  • Move the gear lever to the correct gear.
  • Release the clutch pedal slowly while gently pressing the accelerator to prevent the engine from stalling.

Driving Downhill

When driving downhill, avoid switching between high and low gears. Instead, select a suitable gear for the descent to maintain control and reduce wear on the transmission.

Creep Mode

  • Use Creep mode for slow-moving operations or when you need more precise control over the vehicle’s speed. This mode works with gears 1-5 and Reverse 1.

Low Speed Gear for Hills

When driving uphill, shift to low-speed gear before starting the climb. This helps the engine maintain power for the incline without needing to change gears constantly.

Neutral Position

Ensure the gear lever is in neutral before starting the engine. This is a key step for safe and smooth vehicle operation.

Handbrake and Clutch Coordination

  • Press the clutch pedal and engage the handbrake before starting the engine.
  • Release the handbrake first, then slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the throttle to start moving.

Gear Selection and Shifting

  • Always press both the brake and clutch pedals before shifting gears.
  • Use the double H mechanism to switch between different speed ranges, such as from 1-4 to 5-8 gears, for smoother shifts.

Reverse Gears

  • The Sinotruk Howo has two reverse gears: Reverse 1 (low) and Reverse 2 (high). Choose the right reverse gear based on the maneuver you need to make.

Using Differential Locks

Differential locks are important for maintaining traction in tough driving conditions. Engaging and disengaging them correctly can improve vehicle performance on rough terrain or steep hills.

Engagement Procedure

  • Inter-wheel Differential Lock: To engage, press the upper part of the switch. You can control it with an electric switch or air valve inside the cab. The indicator lamp will light up, showing the lock is engaged.
  • Inter-axle Differential Lock: To engage, press the upper part of the inter-axle switch. The indicator lamp will light up to signal engagement.

Disengagement Procedure

  • Inter-wheel Differential Lock: To disengage, press the lower part of the switch. The indicator lamp will turn off, confirming the lock is disengaged.
  • Inter-axle Differential Lock: To disengage, press the lower part of the inter-axle switch. The indicator lamp will turn off, signaling disengagement.

Important Considerations

  • Vehicle Must Be Stationary: Always make sure the vehicle is fully stopped before engaging or disengaging differential locks. This helps prevent damage to the differential and other parts.
  • Speed Limit: Engage differential locks only at low speeds, under 40 km/h, to avoid damage.

Driving with Differential Locks

  • Once the differential lock is engaged, avoid steering, as it may damage the locking mechanism. Instead, gently press the throttle to accelerate slowly.

When to Use Differential Locks

  • Engage the differential lock when driving on steep hills, muddy roads, or rough terrain to maintain maximum traction. Engage the lock before facing tough driving conditions for the best performance.

Maintenance

  • Regularly activate the power divider switch in a safe area to make sure it works properly and keeps the system in good shape.

Maintenance and Inspection

Keeping your Sinotruk Howo in good condition is key to its performance and safety. Regular maintenance can help avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of the truck.

Oil Level and Hydraulic Oil

  • Check the oil level every month to keep the hydraulic oil clean and efficient.
  • Replace the hydraulic oil every 20,000 km or every six months. Follow these steps when replacing the oil:
    • Raise the front axle.
    • Open the fuel tank cover and unscrew the return pipe on the steering gear.
    • Start the engine and let it idle for about 10 seconds. Turn the steering wheel fully to both the right and left several times to drain oil from the oil reservoir, booster pumps, and steering gear.
    • Re-tighten the return pipe, clean the oil reservoir, oil filters, and filter elements. I recommend replacing the filter element with each oil change.
    • After filling the hydraulic oil, run the engine at idle speed. Turn the steering wheel left and right repeatedly, adding oil until the level stabilizes and no bubbles appear.Recommendation: Check the oil level every month to keep the hydraulic system running efficiently.

      Case Example:
      A Howo truck used by a transportation company in Lusaka reported reduced steering performance after neglecting regular hydraulic oil changes. The hydraulic system showed significant signs of wear, with increased maintenance costs due to failed steering pumps. After adopting a routine of replacing hydraulic oil every 20,000 km, the system’s performance improved significantly, with a noticeable reduction in costly repairs over the following 6 months.

      Data:
      Trucks that maintain the recommended hydraulic oil change interval (every 20,000 km or every six months) have shown a 30% reduction in unplanned downtime compared to those that do not.

Coolant System

  • Check the coolant level weekly and check for leaks using a halogen checker once a month.
  • Inspect hoses and pipes for cracks or damage every two months.
  • Examine connectors and clamps every quarter to make sure they are tight and leak-free.
  • Refill with the correct coolant as needed.

Air System

  • Drain water from the air reservoir regularly to prevent water build-up.
  • Check the air filter maintenance indicator and clean or replace the filter as needed.

Recommendation: Drain water from the air reservoir regularly to avoid moisture accumulation.

Case Example:
A mining company faced issues with its air brake systems, often requiring expensive repairs due to moisture build-up in the air system. They began draining the air reservoir monthly and checking the air filter maintenance indicator regularly. This simple practice led to a 40% reduction in air system-related maintenance issues.

Brake System

  • Check the hand brake and service brake regularly to ensure they work properly.
  • Inspect the brake camshaft and brake arm for issues. Adjust or replace parts as needed.

Tire and Wheel

  • Check tire pressure and condition regularly. Make sure tires are properly inflated and free from wear or damage.

Engine and Transmission

  • Check engine oil, coolant, and hydraulic oil levels regularly.
  • Change the engine oil according to the recommended schedule:
    • Check the oil color and look for contaminants when draining.
    • Clean the drain plug and tighten it after draining the oil.
    • Replace the oil filter and add new oil to the correct level.
    • Turn the key switch to the starting position (Position 4) with the high-pressure oil pump off, run the engine at low speed for a while, then start the engine normally.

Running-in Period

  • During the first 2000 kilometers, drive the truck carefully to ensure proper engine and vehicle performance. Avoid hard acceleration and high engine speeds to reduce wear on important parts like the pistons, turbo, and air compressor. Warm up the engine for about 5 minutes before driving.

Other Components

  • Check the starter, alternator, and battery regularly to ensure they work well.
  • Test all lamps (oil pressure, air reservoir pressure, air filter maintenance, and battery charge indicators) to make sure they function properly.
  • Inspect the belt pulley for tightness and check belts for wear every two months.
  • Check all bolts for tightness and replace them if needed every quarter.

High-Pressure Hoses

  • Replace the high-pressure hose on the dump truck every two years or sooner if it’s damaged or shows signs of wear.

Dump Truck Mechanism

  • Check frequently for air and oil leaks in the dump truck’s dumping mechanism. Make sure the filter at the fuel filler isn’t damaged and replace it if needed to prevent contaminants from damaging hydraulic components.

Safety and Operational Tips

Driving a Sinotruk Howo requires focus on both safety and efficiency. By following these key tips, you can have a safer, smoother driving experience and reduce wear on your vehicle.

Pre-Start Checks

Before driving, make sure to check the following to ensure the truck is ready for safe operation: – Clean and Sanitize: Clean the truck regularly and wipe down frequently touched surfaces to keep germs at bay. – Check Tires: Inspect tire pressure and condition. Correct tire pressure is crucial for both safety and fuel efficiency. – Check Fluids: Make sure the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and battery fluids are at proper levels before starting the engine. – Inspect Brakes: Check the brakes regularly. Ensure all brake components are working properly.

Starting the Engine

  • Warm-Up: Let the engine idle for about 5 minutes before driving. This helps reduce the risk of engine damage from sudden acceleration.
  • Check Dashboard: Once the engine starts, check for any warning lights or unusual readings. Address any issues as soon as possible.

Driving Techniques

  • Adjust Mirrors: Make sure all mirrors are adjusted for maximum visibility. This will help you avoid blind spots.
  • Drive Anticipating Hazards: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, watch for potential hazards, and use the ABS system correctly to help avoid accidents.
  • Shifting Gears: Press the clutch in two steps when shifting gears. Shifting at the right time, especially uphill, ensures the truck has enough power.
  • Braking: Use the air brake system properly. Avoid continuous braking to prevent air pressure loss and maintain control of the vehicle.

Handling and Maneuvering

  • Turns and Curves: Take turns and curves gently to account for the truck’s high center of gravity. Avoid sharp turns to reduce the impact of centrifugal force.
  • Parking and Reversing: Be mindful of your surroundings when parking or reversing. Use mirrors and sensors to avoid collisions.

Safety Features

  • ABS and Airbags: Use safety features like ABS brakes and airbags to improve safety during driving.
  • GPS and Monitoring Systems: Use GPS navigation and real-time monitoring systems to plan better routes and cut down on operational costs.

Avoid Overloading

Don’t overload the truck beyond its capacity. Overloading, especially in the rear drive axle (designed for 13 tons), can cause serious damage, like axle housing deformation.

Regular Maintenance

  • Stick to a regular maintenance schedule to keep the truck running smoothly. Clean the engine, check fluid levels, and replace worn-out parts to keep the vehicle in top condition.

Following these safety and operational tips will help you drive your Sinotruk Howo more efficiently and safely, extend its lifespan, and ensure a smoother journey.

Additional Safety Precautions

When driving a Sinotruk Howo, it’s important to take extra safety measures. This will help ensure the vehicle lasts longer and keep both the driver and others on the road safe.

Gear Selection Based on Road Conditions

  • Choose the right gear for the conditions you’re driving in. On hills or when carrying a heavy load, use first or second gear to keep better control and prevent engine stalling.

Winter Driving Precautions

  • Preparation: Before driving in winter, check your tire pressure, make sure the battery is charged, and ensure the engine oil and windshield washer fluid are at the right levels.
  • Winter Kit: Carry a winter driving kit with items like a snow brush, ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, and a blanket. It’s also a good idea to pack non-perishable food and water in case of an emergency.
  • Driving Tips: Drive slowly and carefully in winter weather. Leave extra space between your truck and other vehicles, especially on icy or snowy roads. Avoid sudden movements to stay in control on slippery surfaces.
  • Stay Alert: Check the weather forecast and delay your trip if bad weather is expected. Stay aware of other vehicles and any road hazards.

Regular Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance

  • Brake System: Check the brake lining thickness, adjust the brake clearance, and inspect the brake lines and hoses for wear. Drain water from the air reservoir and make sure the air pressure system is leak-free.
  • Other Critical Systems: Regularly inspect the A/C system, electrical systems, and other important components to prevent breakdowns and keep the vehicle safe to drive.
  • Daily Checks: Perform daily checks on tire pressure, engine oil, and battery condition. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

General Driving Safety

  • Engine Start: Make sure the gear lever is in neutral and the parking brake is on before starting the engine. Press the clutch pedal fully and start the engine while the gear is in neutral.
  • Shifting Gears: Always use the clutch when shifting gears to protect the transmission. Press the clutch twice when shifting between gears, especially when going from low to high gears.
  • Differential Locks: Use the inter-wheel and inter-axle differential locks carefully. Ensure the vehicle is completely stopped before engaging or disengaging the locks. Never steer while the differential lock is engaged.

Operating a Sinotruk Howo requires attention to detail, from pre-driving checks to proper driving techniques. By following these steps, you can make sure the truck runs well, reduces wear, and improves safety. A well-maintained truck will save you money in the long run and provide a smoother, more efficient driving experience.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfdSLGKQgkY

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