As a type of vehicle used to transport hazardous materials, how much do you know about the maintenance of oil tank trucks? While all vehicles require maintenance, there are common misconceptions surrounding the process; are you aware of the pitfalls regarding oil tank truck maintenance?
1. Oil Tank Truck Maintenance
(1) First, it is essential to understand the main structure, performance, and functions of the oil tank truck. The specialized vehicle chassis must be serviced or repaired at authorized service stations in accordance with requirements;
(2) An oil tank truck typically consists of four main components: the specialized vehicle chassis, the tank body, the piping system, and the power take-off (PTO) unit;
(3) Drivers should diligently perform routine maintenance. This includes inspection, cleaning, tightening, and fluid replenishment—both before departure, during operation, and after returning. Promptly identify any lingering issues or safety hazards and address them immediately;
(4) Before setting out, inspect the tank body, piping, and valves for oil seepage or leaks, and ensure the top hatch is properly secured. Also, check fluid levels (lubricating oil, fuel, and coolant), the hand and foot brakes, the steering system, instruments and lights, tire pressure, and wheel nuts.
(5) Points for drivers to note while operating the oil tanker:
① Monitor the operation of all instruments while driving;
② Check that the steering system is functioning correctly while driving;
③ Check that the handbrake and foot brake are operating normally while driving;
④ Check for any unusual noises or odors coming from the engine, chassis, or tank body while driving;、
⑤ During stops, perform the following inspections on the tanker truck: touch the front and rear brake drums to check for overheating; inspect tires and the tightness of wheel nuts; remove debris lodged in tire treads; check for oil, water, or air leaks; inspect the condition of leaf springs and check for loose driveshaft bolts; and examine the exterior of the tank body and the piping system.
(6) Take the tanker truck to a specialized service station regularly for chassis break-in maintenance and servicing.
2. Common Misconceptions About Tanker Truck Maintenance
(1) Always inflating tires to very high pressures.
Many drivers prefer to inflate tires to very high pressures, believing it saves fuel and allows for overloading. However, excessively high tire pressure reduces the tire’s contact patch with the road and causes severe tread wear; it also diminishes braking effectiveness, undoubtedly compromising driving safety. Conversely, tire pressure that is too low is also detrimental; it accelerates shoulder wear and increases fuel consumption, while also negatively affecting driving safety and braking performance.
(2) Always overfilling the engine oil.
Many drivers worry about insufficient engine oil and tend to fill the reservoir to the brim. However, many are unaware that excessive oil increases rotational resistance in the crank-connecting rod mechanism and causes more oil to splash onto the cylinder walls. Excess oil can also lead to increased carbon deposits in the combustion chamber and a drop in engine power, thereby adversely affecting emissions.
In reality, the oil level should be neither too high nor too low. Generally, oil should be added according to the markings on the dipstick: the level must not exceed the upper limit or fall below the lower limit. Ideally, the oil level should be maintained in the upper half of the marked range.
(3) Overtightening vehicle bolts
Generally, the tightening torque for bolts on various parts of a tanker truck is specified based on factors such as diameter, thread pitch, and intended use. Failing to meet the specified torque causes bolts to loosen, while exceeding it causes them to stretch. It is essential to be aware of the correct tightening torque when securing bolts.
(4) The misconception that tighter accessory belts are better
Many tanker truck owners believe that increasing the tension of accessory belts improves compressor cooling performance and generator output; however, this is incorrect. Accessory belts should be maintained at the proper tension. Excessive tension places an undue load on bearings and shortens component lifespan; it can also lead to belt breakage, ultimately disrupting the vehicle’s normal operation.
