Tipper Trucks: Understanding Some of the Common Mechanical Problems
Posted on: 27 April 2020
A tipper truck, also referred to as a dump trailer, is a popular equipment in today's construction sites. That is for a good reason! Unlike other truck and trailer configurations, a dump truck comes with a hydraulically operated trailer, which makes it easy to offload materials on different sections of the site. It saves you from having a bunch of workers crawl into the trailer to unload materials with shovels and other handheld tools. Indeed, the vigorous demands of the workplace take a toll on the dump truck, and it is only a matter of time before you start experiencing problems with the hydraulic system. The following article reveals some of the hidden secrets about the diagnosis of a tipper truck:
Air Causes Problems for the Hydraulic System
Hydraulically operated trucks work by manipulating the pressure of fluids in cylinders and special manifolds. The result is an immense force capable of raising a trailer full of a load so that it can empty that load in a specific area. When air finds its way into the hydraulic pipes and cylinders, it breaks the sequence of hydraulic fluid, reducing the amount of force it can generate. If you have difficulty lowering or raising the trailer, then you need to remove the air from the hydraulic system.
Open the relief valves of the system to bleeding out air. Let the hydraulic fluid flow out continuously until there are no more bubbles in the fluid. If this does not work, then you have another problem on your hands. Visit a service centre for further checks.
Dirt in the Strainer
The hydraulic setup on a dumper truck comes with a pump for moving the fluid in the system. The pump has a strainer designed to keep dirt and unwanted particles from getting into the pump. Handling lots of dirt means that the strainer can clog to a point where it stops the hydraulic pump or keeps it from functioning optimally. Keep your strainer clean by removing it and cleaning before fitting it back.
Repair and Replace Worn Components
Occasionally, the failure of your dump truck could be the result of worn components. This is the result of regular use and having to deal with heavy loads every day. Always inspect your truck regularly, looking for broken hoses, pipes, cylinders and pumps. Replace such parts with new ones to get the truck up and running again.
If you suspect an issue, contact a truck servicing repair centre for more information.
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