How To Maintain A Sinotruk Howo Truck Effectively

trucks

Owning a Sinotruk Howo truck means you have a powerful vehicle, but keeping it in good condition requires more than just fuel and long drives. Regular maintenance ensures your truck runs well, lasts longer, and avoids expensive breakdowns. Simple tasks like oil changes and daily checks can save you both time and money. However, there’s a common mistake many truck owners miss—are you making it too?

Regular Maintenance Schedule of Sinotruk howo

To keep your SINOTRUK Howo truck running smoothly and on the road for miles, regular maintenance is key. Think of it as giving your truck some care. Here’s a simple guide to the important service intervals and tasks that will keep it in top shape.

Category Details
Recommended Maintenance Intervals
  • First-time Check: After 1,000-1,500 km or 30-50 hours
  • Routine Check (P): Every 5,000 km or 150 hours
  • 1st-Grade Service (WD1): Every 10,000 km or 300 hours
  • 2nd-Grade Service (WD2): Every 20,000 km or 600 hours
  • 3rd-Grade Service (WD3): Every 40,000 km or 1,200 hours
  • 4th-Grade Service (WD4): Every 80,000 km or 2,400 hours
Key Maintenance Tasks
  • Engine Oil & Filter
    • Change engine oil every 10,000 km or 6 months
    • Replace fuel filter or filter element when changing the diesel oil
  • Air & Cooling System
    • Clean air filter dust cup every 5,000 km
    • Replace air filter safety core after cleaning the main filter 5 times
    • Check coolant level and top it up if needed at every service
    • Replace coolant every 24 months
  • Chassis & Lubrication
    • Lubricate chassis components (leaf spring pins, shock absorbers, brake camshafts) every 10,000 km
    • Perform rust-proofing treatment of the driver’s cab every 12 months
  • Engine & Valve Clearance
    • Check and adjust valve clearance every 20,000 km
Special Considerations
  • Trucks used in harsh environments or those that frequently carry heavy loads should have shorter maintenance intervals.
  • No matter how far you’ve driven, make sure to change the oil at least twice a year to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.

Following this schedule helps your SINOTRUK HOWO truck run smoothly and stay in top condition.

Expert Opinion:

“Regular maintenance and careful tracking of a truck’s operational data help improve performance and extend its lifespan. Sticking to maintenance schedules lowers the risk of breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces overall costs. Fleet managers should make sure all maintenance tasks are completed on time. Addressing wear and tear early prevents costly repairs later.”

John Doe, Vehicle Maintenance Expert and Fleet Management Consultant

Daily Checks of sinotruk howo

It’s important to do daily checks on your Sinotruk HOWO truck. This will help keep you safe, reduce maintenance costs, and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Regular checks can also extend the truck’s lifespan and improve its performance.

Category Details
Tire Pressure and Condition
  • Check the inflation, wear, and any visible damage to the tires.
  • Keeping the right tire pressure boosts fuel efficiency and lowers the risk of blowouts.
Fluid Levels
  • Engine oil – Keeps the engine running smoothly and prevents damage.
  • Coolant – Helps control the engine’s temperature and avoid overheating.
  • Brake fluid – Crucial for effective braking.
  • Power steering fluid – Ensures easy and responsive steering.
  • Windshield washer fluid – Keeps the windshield clean for better visibility.
Lights and Signals
  • Check that all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights work properly.
  • Make sure the horn is in good working condition.
Brakes
  • Test the parking brake and service brakes to ensure they are working well.
  • Listen for strange noises or grinding sounds when braking.
  • Check how the brake pedal feels—it should neither be too soft nor too hard.
Leaks
  • Check under the truck for any oil, coolant, brake fluid, or fuel leaks.
  • Fix any leaks right away to avoid mechanical problems.
Windshield and Wipers
  • Clean the windshield for clear visibility.
  • Check the wiper blades for cracks or damage. Replace them if needed.
Mirrors and Windows
  • Adjust and clean all mirrors for a clear view of surrounding traffic.
  • Check that windows are free from cracks or obstructions.
Air Filter Indicator
  • Check the air filter indicator to see if the filter needs cleaning or replacement.
  • A clogged air filter reduces fuel efficiency and engine performance.
Belts and Hoses
  • Visually inspect for cracks, fraying, or looseness.
  • Worn belts or hoses can lead to engine overheating or loss of power.
Steering System
  • Turn the steering wheel to check for excessive play or strange noises.
  • Proper steering response is vital for safe driving.
Example Daily Checklist
  • Tire pressure: Front psi, Rear psi
  • Engine oil level: Full / Low / Empty
  • Coolant level: Full / Low / Empty
  • Brake fluid: Full / Low / Empty
  • Lights functioning: Yes / No
  • Windshield washer fluid: Full / Low / Empty
  • Air filter indicator: Green / Red
  • Visible leaks: Yes / No
  • Unusual noises: Yes / No

Trucks with regular daily inspections have 30% fewer breakdowns and 20% lower maintenance costs over their lifetime. Be sure to do these checks before starting your first trip to ensure safety and efficiency.

Engine Maintenance of sinotruk howo

Maintaining the engine of your Sinotruk Howo truck is important for performance and durability. Regular maintenance helps your engine run smoothly and reduces the chances of unexpected breakdowns. Here are the key maintenance steps you should follow.

Category Details
Oil Changes
  • Frequency: Change the engine oil every 10,000 km for road vehicles, or 5,000 km for off-road vehicles.
  • Oil Type: Use CF-4 grade oil for Euro 2 engines or CH-4 grade oil for Euro 3 engines.
Fuel System
  • Pre-filter: Clean or replace the fuel pre-filter every 10,000 km.
  • Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter element each time you change the diesel oil.
Air Filter
  • Air Filter Indicator: Check the air filter maintenance indicator regularly.
  • Cleaning: Clean the dust cup of the air filter (for non-automatic exhaust types) every 5,000 km.
  • Safety Filter Core: After cleaning the main filter core five times, replace the safety filter core.
Coolant
  • Coolant Check: Check the coolant volume every 5,000 km and top it up if needed.
  • Replacement: Replace the coolant every 24 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Valve Clearance
  • Adjustment: Check and adjust the valve clearance every 10,000 km.
Turbocharger
  • Bearing Clearance: Inspect the bearing clearance of the turbocharger every 40,000 km.
Belts and Hoses
  • Belts: Check the tightness and wear of belts every month.
  • Hoses and Clamps: Tighten cooling pipe clamps and inlet air pipe connections every 10,000 km.
Idling and Temperature
  • Idling: After starting the engine, let it idle for 2-3 minutes before driving.
  • Engine Temperature: Don’t run the engine at high speed or heavy load if the coolant temperature is below 60°C.
Oil Pressure
  • Pressure Check: At idling, ensure the oil pressure is between 270-320 kPa.
First Check
  • Perform a comprehensive check after the first 1,500-2,000 km of operation.

Following these steps will help keep your Sinotruk Howo truck in good condition, reduce the risk of expensive repairs, and improve its performance. Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for more detailed maintenance schedules.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ussbd-Yit4

Transmission and Axle Maintenance of sinotruk howo

Category Details
Transmission Maintenance
  • Use Grade CF-4 15W/40 engine oil for proper lubrication.
  • Check the oil level regularly, making sure it reaches the observation slit on the transmission box.
  • Oil capacity: 12L for HW18710 transmission (12.5L if equipped with a power take-off).
  • Change the transmission oil within the first 2,000-5,000 km for new transmissions.
  • Check oil level and inspect for leaks every 10,000 km.
  • Replace the lubricant every 50,000 km to keep the performance up.
  • Make sure the transmission does not exceed a maximum working temperature of 120°C.
  • Keep the working inclination angle below 15° to avoid damage.
Axle Maintenance
  • Perform routine maintenance every 15,000 km or 6 months.
  • Change the lubricating oil after the first 5,000 km of use.
  • Check oil levels every 5,000 km or once a month.
  • Replace axle lubricating oil every 150,000 km or once per year.
  • Use GL-5 85W-90 gear oil for proper lubrication.
  • Oil capacity: 23L for the middle axle, 20.5L for the rear axle.
  • Clean the breather plug often to ensure proper ventilation.
  • Inspect oil filler and drain plugs for leaks.
  • Check the tightness of half axle bolts to prevent loosening.
  • Apply 2# lithium base grease to grease nipples every 2,000 km for smooth operation.
Key Maintenance Tasks
  • Replace transmission hydraulic oil at least once a year.
  • Check the function of the transmission oil thermometer.
  • Inspect the throttle sensor for accuracy and efficiency.
  • Watch the transmission fault indicator light to detect early issues.
  • Retighten transmission shaft bolts at 1,200 km, then every 3,000 km to avoid loosening.
  • Clean the axle ventilation device to prevent blockages and overheating.
  • During Class-2 maintenance, check and adjust hub bearing clearance.
  • Replace hub lubricating grease as recommended.

Follow manufacturer guidelines and adjust maintenance intervals based on driving conditions to keep the vehicle running smoothly.

Steering System Maintenance of sinotruk howo

To keep the steering system of your Sinotruk HOWO truck in good condition, regular inspections and care are important. Here are the steps you should follow to ensure it works well for a long time.

Category Details
Regular Hydraulic Oil Checks
  • Check the hydraulic oil level in the tank regularly. Make sure it’s at the right level shown on the dipstick.
  • Clean the oil reservoir and nearby area before checking to avoid contamination.
Oil Replacement and Cleaning
  • Replace the hydraulic oil after the first 2,500 km, and then every 20,000 km or 6 months.
  • Clean the cartridge in the reservoir with each oil change.
  • Check the oil level and cleanliness every month.
Oil Change Process
  • Jack up the front axle.
  • Remove the return pipe from the steering gear.
  • Run the engine for 10 seconds, turning the wheel to drain the oil.
  • Clean the reservoir, filters, and other parts thoroughly.
  • Refill with fresh oil while running the engine and turning the wheel.
  • Add oil until the level is stable and no bubbles are visible.
Inspect Steering Components
  • Check the clearance of steering parts like tie rods and drag rod joints during regular service.
  • Replace any parts with excessive play.
  • Lubricate all moving parts with high-quality grease.
Quality Oil Selection
  • Always use high-quality oil for the steering system. Poor-quality oils can block passages and cause damage to parts like the vertical shaft.
Power Steering Pump and Hoses
  • Check the power steering pump for proper operation, and listen for leaks or strange noises.
  • Inspect hoses for kinks, cracks, or damage.
Wheel Alignment and Lubrication
  • Make sure the front wheels are properly aligned to avoid uneven tire wear and steering issues.
  • If the steering feels off, get the alignment checked.
  • Lubricate the steering shaft, knuckles, and ball joints every 5,000-10,000 km, as per the maintenance schedule.

By following these maintenance steps, you can keep your Sinotruk HOWO truck’s steering system working well, ensuring safe and smooth driving on the road.

Here’s your revised text with improved readability while maintaining all essential details:


Brake System Maintenance of sinotruk howo

Keeping your Sinotruk Howo truck’s brakes in top condition is crucial for safety and performance. Regular maintenance helps prevent expensive repairs and ensures smooth operation.

Category Details
Brake Fluid Levels
  • Check every 10,000 km or once a month.
  • Fluid level should stay between the “High” and “Low” marks on the reservoir.
  • Sinotruk recommends DOT 4 brake fluid.
  • Replace every two years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first.
Brake Pad and Disc Inspection
  • Inspect every 15,000 km.
  • Replace pads if thinner than 5 mm.
  • Look for uneven wear, grooves, or glazing on discs, as these can reduce braking power and increase risk of failure.
Brake Clearance Adjustment
  • Adjust every 30,000 km.
  • Gap between brake pads and discs should be 0.6-0.8 mm.
  • Ensures proper contact and maximum braking force.
Lubrication of Brake Components
  • Lubricate every 50,000 km.
  • Use high-temperature brake grease to reduce friction and wear.
Air Pressure Testing
  • Check often, air pressure should stay between 650-850 kPa.
  • If pressure drops below 550 kPa, low-pressure warning light turns on.
Air Tank Drainage
  • Drain air tanks daily to remove moisture and prevent rust.
  • Use alcohol evaporator system in colder areas to prevent air lines from freezing.
Brake Hoses and Lines Inspection
  • Inspect every 20,000 km.
  • Replace damaged parts immediately to avoid brake failure.
Brake Chamber Push Rod Travel
  • Check each service.
  • Maximum stroke for Sinotruk Howo models is 45-50 mm.
  • Ensures proper brake function and stopping power.
Complete Brake System Inspection
  • Inspect every 100,000 km or once a year.
  • Test brake balance and efficiency to confirm optimal performance.

This version improves readability by using simpler words, breaking long sentences into shorter ones, and removing unnecessary adverbs. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!

Cooling System Care of sinotruk howo

To maintain your Sinotruk Howo truck’s cooling system, follow these steps:

Category Details
Check Coolant Levels
  • Inspect the coolant levels regularly and top up if needed.
  • Ensure the coolant-to-water ratio is correct to prevent overheating.
Inspect for Leaks or Damage
  • Check the entire cooling system for leaks, corrosion, or damage.
  • Focus on hoses, pipes, and connectors to prevent costly failures.
Clean Radiator and Cooling Fins
  • Keep the radiator and cooling fins free of debris, dirt, or bugs.
  • Blockages can reduce airflow and cause overheating.
Replace Coolant
  • Change the coolant as per the manufacturer’s schedule, usually yearly.
  • Fresh coolant prevents rusting and clogging.
Ensure Functionality of Key Components
  • Regularly check the thermostat, water pump, and cooling fan.
  • These components are crucial for engine temperature regulation.
Tighten Cooling Pipe Clamps
  • After 2000-4000 km, ensure all cooling pipe clamps are tight.
  • This helps prevent leaks and maintains system integrity.
Air Filter Maintenance
  • Clean or replace the air filter when needed.
  • A clogged air filter affects engine performance and cooling efficiency.
Monitor Engine Temperature
  • Keep an eye on engine temperature, especially under heavy loads.
  • High temperatures may signal cooling system issues.
Use Recommended Coolant Type
  • Use the coolant type recommended for Sinotruk Howo trucks.
  • Proper coolant prevents freezing, rust, and system damage.
Perform Coolant System Flush
  • Flush the coolant system periodically to remove contaminants.
  • This improves heat transfer and extends system lifespan.

Lubrication Points

Keeping your Sinotruk Howo truck in top shape isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about caring for it properly. Proper lubrication is crucial for your truck. It keeps every part moving smoothly and helps it stay in great condition for years. Let’s look at the key lubrication points, the best fluids to use, and how often your truck needs this essential maintenance.

Category Details
Engine Lubrication
  • Use CH-4 grade engine oil.
  • Capacity: 22-23L.
  • Change interval: 10,000km for road vehicles and 5,000km for off-road vehicles.
Transmission Lubrication
  • Use GL-5 85W/90 gear oil.
  • Oil capacity:
    • HW15710 and HW19710 models: 12-12.5L
    • HW19712 and HW20716 models: 14-14.5L
  • Change interval: Every 100,000km for road vehicles or 80,000km for off-road vehicles.
Axle Lubrication
  • HC Axle:
    • Middle axle: 25L
    • Rear axle: 22L
  • AC Axle:
    • Middle axle: 21L
    • Rear axle: 17.5L
  • Oil type: GL-5 85W/90 gear oil.
  • Change interval: 100,000km for road vehicles or 80,000km for off-road vehicles.
Steering System Lubrication
  • Use ATFIII fluid.
  • Oil capacity:
    • Single steering axle: 5.5L
    • Double steering axle: 6.5L
  • Change interval: Every 100,000km for road vehicles or 80,000km for off-road vehicles.
Other Lubrication Points
  • Water pump: Lubricate every 400 hours with 120g of grease.
  • Steering master pin: Lubricate every 400 hours as needed.
  • Cab damper, hydraulic lock, and flip shaft: Lubricate monthly as needed.
  • Front axle brake arm and camshaft: Lubricate every 400 hours as needed.
  • Drive axle brake camshaft: Lubricate every 400 hours as needed.
  • Cab door hinge: Lubricate every six months as needed.
Additional Lubrication Areas
  • Wheel hub bearings: Use lithium-based grease, about 0.6kg per wheel.
  • Brake camshaft and kingpin: Use 0.2kg of grease per point.
  • Tie rod ball pins and brake lash adjuster arm: Apply grease as needed.
Important Notes
  • After cleaning the vehicle, refill all lubrication points with grease.
  • For new vehicles, change the transmission oil between 2,000-5,000km.
  • Check oil levels and look for leaks every 10,000km, and top up as needed.
  • The maximum working temperature for the transmission should not exceed 120°C.

Mandatory Maintenance

You should perform mandatory maintenance on Sinotruk Howo trucks when the vehicle’s mileage reaches between 2,000 and 4,000 kilometers, or within six months of purchase. This maintenance is important for:

  • Removing particles, burrs, and harmful impurities from the initial operation.
  • Fixing issues like connection loosening caused by early use of the vehicle.
  • Improving vehicle reliability and extending its service life.

Key Tasks in Mandatory Maintenance

Mandatory maintenance involves important checks and adjustments, such as:

  • Checking and adjusting valve clearance
  • Replacing diesel oil and fuel filter elements
  • Inspecting and tightening cooling pipe clamps
  • Examining air filter components
  • Verifying clutch stroke and wire rope conditions

Maintenance for Long-Distance Trucks

For long-distance trucks, the first mandatory maintenance cycle should occur at 100,000 km or 10 months, whichever comes first. For municipal vehicles, the first cycle is required at 80,000 km or 10 months.

Maintenance Frequency Based on Usage

Maintenance frequency depends on the vehicle’s operating conditions:

  • Annual mileage under 20,000 km: Every 5,000 km or 150 hours
  • Annual mileage under 60,000 km: Every 10,000 km
  • Annual mileage over 60,000 km: Every 15,000 km

Regular Checks During Maintenance

During mandatory maintenance, it is essential to check the following:

  • Engine oil, coolant, and steering hydraulic oil levels
  • Tire pressure and condition
  • Brake system functionality
  • Electrical components and wiring harness (every 250 hours)

Rust Prevention

To prevent rust on your Sinotruk Howo truck, I recommend sticking to a regular maintenance routine that combines cleaning and protection.

Category Details
Regular Cleaning
  • Clean the truck well, focusing on the chassis and undercarriage to remove dirt, debris, and salt.
  • Use a pressure washer for tough-to-reach spots to ensure a thorough cleaning.
  • Always dry the truck before applying any rust prevention coatings.
Protective Coatings
  • Apply coatings like Eck Complete Corrosion Protection or POR-15 to metal surfaces, especially under the truck, in wheel wells, and on the frame.
  • Reapply the coatings once a year, or follow the manufacturer’s advice.
Anti-Rust Inspections
  • Inspect your truck for rust once a year to make sure the protective coatings are still working.
  • Add extra anti-rust treatments as needed during the inspection.
Use of Oil Sprays
  • Every 6-12 months, use a garden sprayer to apply drain oil or diluted waste oil to the undercarriage. It’s an affordable rust prevention method.
Avoid Harmful Cleaning Agents
  • Don’t use alkaline cleaning agents when washing the truck. These can weaken the protective coatings and reduce their effectiveness.
Storage Considerations
  • Keep your truck indoors or covered when possible. This will limit exposure to moisture and environmental contaminants.
Drain Plug Maintenance
  • Check and clear the drain plugs in the trunk, hood, and door bottoms regularly to prevent water buildup.
Timely Paint Repairs
  • Fix paint damage or scratches quickly to stop rust from forming on exposed metal surfaces.
Additional Considerations for Trucks Near the Ocean
  • If your truck is used near the ocean, rinse it with fresh water after driving on the beach to remove salt.
  • You might want to install an undercarriage sprinkler system to clean the underside of the truck thoroughly.
Handling Road Salt Exposure
  • If you drive on salted roads, avoid them when possible.
  • Wash the truck often during winter to remove salt and moisture that could cause rust.