By performing a few simple maintenance tasks and monitoring your engine’s condition, you can keep your Sinotruk Howo 371 running smoothly for many years. From my experience, addressing small issues early can prevent bigger problems later, saving both time and money. I once ignored a minor oil leak, and it ended up causing an expensive repair. Checking your engine regularly might feel like a chore, but it pays off in the long run with reliable performance over the years.
Engine Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your Sinotruk Howo 371 engine is essential for its long-term performance. Follow this maintenance schedule to keep your engine in good condition.
Diesel Oil Replacement
- Replace the diesel oil at least once a year or according to the CH-4 oil change cycle, based on the following:
- WG I: Every 5,000 km or 150 hours.
- WG II: Every 10,000 km or 300 hours.
- WG III: Every 15,000 km or 300 hours.
Fuel System Maintenance
- Replace the fuel filter or filter element when changing the diesel oil to maintain a clean fuel system.
- Clean or replace the fuel pre-filter to keep the fuel entering the engine free from contaminants.
Valve and Coolant Checks
- Check and adjust valve clearance during each maintenance check to prevent engine damage and ensure good performance.
- Check the coolant level at every maintenance check and top it up as needed. This helps prevent overheating and keeps the engine cool.
- Replace the coolant every 4 years to maintain proper engine temperature.
Pipe and Clamp Maintenance
- Tighten the cooling pipe clamp at each check to avoid leaks and ensure the cooling system works well.
- Secure the inlet air pipe, soft tube, and flange connections during each maintenance check to prevent air leaks and maintain the air intake system.
Air Filter Maintenance
- Check the air filter indicator light regularly. This shows when the air filter needs cleaning or replacement.
- Clean the dust cup of the air filter during each maintenance check (except for automatic exhaust types).
- Clean the main filter element when the indicator turns red. This helps extend the filter’s life.
- Replace the safety filter core after cleaning the main filter several times.
Additional Checks
- Check the turbocharger bearing clearance during each maintenance check to ensure it operates smoothly and lasts longer.
- Check and adjust the clutch stroke and wire rope conditions to prevent early wear and ensure smooth clutch performance.
- Inspect the electrical components and wiring harness every 250 hours to catch any electrical issues before they cause major problems.
Fuel, Lubricating Oil, and Coolant
Keeping the right fuel, lubricating oil, and coolant is key to ensuring the Sinotruk Howo 371 engine runs well.
Pre-Operation and Post-Operation Checks
Proper pre-operation and post-operation checks are important for keeping the Sinotruk Howo 371 engine running smoothly and lasting longer. These checks can help spot potential problems early, reducing costly repairs and downtime.
Pre-Operation Checks
- Check Cooling Level: Make sure the cooling system is filled to the recommended level. The Sinotruk Howo 371 engine needs 40L of coolant to work properly[3].
- Check Fuel Level: Check that the fuel tank has enough fuel. The tank holds 300L, and the fuel alarm will light up when the fuel level drops below 1/8 of the total capacity[1][3].
- Check Oil Level: Ensure the engine oil level is correct. The Howo 371 needs 23L of engine oil[3].
- Inspect Gas Strains and Gas Pumps: Check that the gas strains and pumps are working well to avoid any fuel supply problems[4].
- Check the Starter Motor: Inspect the starter motor to make sure it works properly. Pay attention to the neutral switch and clutch switch, as these can sometimes stop the motor from turning[2].
- Pre-Lubricate the Turbocharger: If the engine has been inactive for a while, pre-lubricate the turbocharger by adding clean lubricant through the inlet[5].
- Inspect Instruments and Indicators: Make sure all instruments, including the speedometer, engine tachometer, fuel gauge, and water temperature gauge, are working correctly. Check that the combination instrument screen shows no error messages when you turn the key on[1].
Post-Operation Checks
- Check Alarm Indicators: After operation, check that all alarm indicators, such as the engine cooling water temperature alarm, oil-water separator alarm, and fuel alarm, are working properly and have not gone off unless there’s an issue[1].
- Inspect Electrical System: Make sure the operating voltage is at 24V and check that the two 12V batteries (165Ah/180Ah) are in good condition[3].
- Examine Alternator: Ensure the alternator is working well to keep the battery charged. The Sinotruk Howo 371 alternator is 3-phase, 28V, 1500W[3].
Common Engine Problems and Solutions
Taking care of your Sinotruk Howo 371 engine is important for its performance and lifespan. Here are some common engine problems and easy solutions to keep your engine running smoothly.
1. Injector Issues and Solutions
Fuel injectors are essential for the engine’s performance. If they aren’t working properly, you may face various engine issues. Here’s what you should check:
- Injection Pressure: Make sure the fuel injectors maintain the right pressure, stroke, and cone angle. If these are incorrect, fuel combustion may become inefficient, leading to less power and worse fuel economy.
- Fuel Supply Cutoff: Ensure the fuel supply cuts off quickly when the injection stops. This prevents fuel from leaking and helps the solenoid valve respond faster.
- Signs of Injector Failure: Watch for signs like difficulty starting the engine, low power, or poor performance. These could mean the injectors need cleaning or replacement.
- Maintenance and Replacement: Regular injector maintenance is important. If an injector is damaged, you may need to replace the whole assembly or just the worn-out parts.
2. Fuel Pressure Problems
The fuel pressure must be within the manufacturer’s recommended range for the engine to run properly. Too high or too low fuel pressure can cause misfires and poor engine performance.
- Check Fuel Pressure: Always confirm that the fuel pressure matches the specifications. Use a fuel pressure gauge to make sure it’s in the right range.
3. Clogged Fuel Filter
A dirty or blocked fuel filter can seriously affect engine performance by blocking fuel from reaching the engine.
- Inspect the Fuel Filter: Regularly check the filter for dirt or blockages. If it’s dirty, replace it to keep the fuel flowing properly.
4. Engine Warning Lights
If the engine warning lights turn on, it means something might be wrong. These lights often signal issues with the fuel system, such as injector problems or sensor failures.
- Check Engine Lights: Always pay attention to any warning lights. They can indicate specific issues, such as problems with the fuel system or other engine components.
5. Oil and Filter Maintenance
Regularly checking and changing the oil and oil filter is key to keeping the engine well-lubricated.
- Oil and Filter Checks: Check the oil level and condition often. If the oil has been in the engine too long, it can cause lubrication problems and possibly damage the engine.
6. Air Intake Blockages
A blocked air intake can reduce the engine’s power and efficiency.
- Inspect the Air Filter: Make sure the air intake system is free from dirt or blockages. Clean or replace the air filter to ensure proper airflow.
By checking these components regularly and fixing issues early, you can avoid serious engine problems and keep your Sinotruk Howo 371 reliable for the long haul.
Oil Change Procedure
To keep your Sinotruk Howo 371 engine running smoothly, it is crucial to change the engine oil regularly. Below are the steps to ensure a successful oil change process:
- Check the Oil Condition
Before draining the oil, check its color to see if there are any contaminants or impurities. This can help identify potential issues with the engine, which can be addressed in a timely manner. - Drain the Old Oil
Completely drain the old oil to ensure no remnants remain in the system. After draining, be sure to clean the drain plug and reinstall it securely. - Replace the Oil Filter
Replace the old oil filter. A new filter is essential for maintaining smooth oil flow and preventing contaminants from entering the engine. - Add New Oil
Add the recommended amount of new engine oil, ensuring the oil level reaches the upper limit of the oil dipstick. This helps maintain effective lubrication for the engine. - Prevent Dry Start
To avoid dry starting, first turn the ignition key to the “start” position (position 4) and turn off the high-pressure oil pump. Let the system idle for a while before starting the engine. Then, run the engine at low speed for about five minutes, checking for any oil leaks. Afterward, turn off the engine and check the oil level again. Add more oil if necessary to reach the upper limit. - Lift the Front Axle
Lift the front axle to ensure that all parts are easily accessible during maintenance. - Open the Oil Tank and Disconnect the Return Line
Open the oil tank cap and remove the return line from the steering gear to perform operations on the hydraulic system. - Start the Engine and Operate the Steering
Start the engine and let it idle for about 10 seconds. Turn the steering wheel to both extremes several times. This helps discharge oil from the oil reservoir, booster pump, and steering system. - Clean and Reinstall the Return Line
Before reinstalling the return line, ensure it is clean and free from debris. This prevents contamination of the new oil. Also, clean or replace the oil filter and filter elements as needed. - Add Hydraulic Oil and Operate the Engine
Fill the hydraulic oil to the appropriate level and continue to let the engine idle. While adding oil, repeatedly turn the steering wheel left and right until the oil level no longer drops and no air bubbles are present. - Regularly Check Oil Level
It is recommended to check the oil level once a month to maintain the cleanliness of the hydraulic oil for optimal performance. - Regularly Change Hydraulic Oil
Change the hydraulic oil every 20,000 kilometers or at least every six months to keep the system running efficiently. - Use Recommended Oil
Always use diesel oil suitable for the local climate (summer or winter) and choose CF-4 15W/40 or higher grade lubricants to ensure the best performance.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiGEqX6-SFE
summary
Follow these simple maintenance steps and regularly check your engine’s health. This way, your Sinotruk Howo 371 will keep performing well for years. Taking care of small issues now can prevent bigger problems later. This will save you time and money. Keep your engine running well, and it’ll reward you with years of reliable service.
