With the upcoming frequent cold snaps in the Northern Hemisphere, the metal components, hydraulic systems, and concrete transport stability of mixer trucks are facing severe challenges. The cold winter weather and sudden drop in temperature pose multiple challenges to the normal operation of mixer trucks. As critical equipment driving project progress, a comprehensive and systematic winter maintenance strategy not only ensures construction safety but also extends vehicle life and reduces maintenance costs. The following content integrates industry and manufacturer recommendations for professional mixer truck drivers and managers.
1.1 Battery and Engine Maintenance
New energy vehicles should be parked in an insulated garage below -5°C. Preheat the battery to above 5°C before driving, and reduce charging power by 20% to protect lithium ion activity.
For diesel engines, switch to -10# fuel and preheat at 1100 rpm for 5 minutes after starting to prevent damage to the cylinder block caused by high rpm at low temperatures.
1.2 Hydraulic Oil and Lubrication Management
The hydraulic system should use No. 46 low-temperature hydraulic oil (for conventional models) or Sany's special No. 1 extreme-pressure lithium-based grease (for new pump bodies). Replace the oil every 100 days.
The reducer gear oil should be GL-5 grade, 85W/90 viscosity. After the first change after 500 hours, maintain it at a 1500-hour/year interval.
2.1 Preheating is required for cold starts
In severe cold weather, engine oil viscosity increases. It is recommended to preheat the engine at idle for at least 5 minutes to ensure adequate lubrication and reduce mechanical wear.
2.2 Cooling System Antifreeze Protection
Use long-term antifreeze and anti-corrosion coolant that is frost-resistant down to -20°C. The concentration may be increased appropriately for temperatures below this level.
2.3 Brake System Anti-Icing
Regularly drain any accumulated water from the air tank to prevent freezing and brake failure.
2.4 Battery Maintenance
Check the tightness of the electrode connections, electrolyte level, and specific gravity every approximately 500 kilometers (the liquid level should be 10–15 mm above the plate, and the specific gravity should be maintained above 1.24 g/cm³).
3.1 Transportation Process Control
Loading stagnation time should not exceed 1 hour (in winter). Before unloading, invert the tank to drain any accumulated water to prevent rapid freezing of the concrete at low temperatures, which could cause the tank wall to stick.
Clean the joints between the reducer and the tank daily to prevent ice debris from abrading the oil seal and causing oil leaks.
3.2 Out-of-Service Treatment
Drain any accumulated water from the water tank and pipes during long-term storage. Place coarse gravel and clean water in the tank to circulate and clean it to prevent residual water from freezing and cracking the pipes.
4.1 Hydraulic System Preheating and Oil Selection
If the ambient temperature is below the minimum operating temperature of the hydraulic oil (approximately 10°C), preheat the hydraulic system by idling at idle for 10–15 minutes. H32 or L-HM32 oil is recommended. Do not mix oils of different brands and types. Replace the oil filter promptly.
4.2 Reducer Lubrication
Use GL-5 gear oil with an appropriate viscosity grade based on the operating environment. After changing the oil, check the connecting bolts and the oil level weekly.
4.3 Grease Pump and Oil Supply System
When the temperature is below 5°C, it is recommended to use "Sany Special No. 1 Extreme Pressure Lithium Grease" to prevent pipe blockage.
4.4 Antifreeze and Insulation of the Mixing Drum
After construction, thoroughly clean the drum with coarse gravel and clean water to remove any accumulated water and debris. It is recommended to install an insulation sleeve on the drum to prevent freezing and damage to the superstructure.
5.1 Clearing Residual Water from the Water Supply System
After construction is complete, completely drain any accumulated water from the water tank and pipes to prevent freezing and rupture of equipment or pipes.
5.2 Protecting the Additive System
Supply systems containing additives are prone to crystallization and failure in environments near zero degrees Celsius. Preheat the system before starting to prevent the water pump from running dry and damaging the mechanical seal.
6.1 Driving on Bridges and Shaded Areas
When encountering floating water or thin ice, gently apply the accelerator and brakes, reduce speed, and maintain sufficient braking distance to prevent skidding and loss of control.
6.2 Activating the ABS and ASR Systems
ABS and drive wheel anti-skid control effectively prevent skidding during starting and cornering. It is recommended that these anti-skid systems be activated. In extreme landslides, temporarily deactivate ASR and activate the inter-axle lock or differential lock to improve driving capability.
7.1 Systematize Daily Cleaning Procedures
Establish a cleaning procedure after work, including flushing the mixer drum, hopper, and drum to prevent the accumulation of residual hardened concrete.
7.2 Regular Comprehensive Inspections
Establish an inspection plan covering the engine, transmission system, hydraulic system, brake system, and worn parts of the mixer drum (such as blades, belts, and liners), and promptly replace worn parts.
8.1 Clean and Dry All Components
Thoroughly remove residual concrete using high-pressure water or a specialized remover, and air-dry before storage.
8.2 Check for Rust and Seals
After wintering, inspect all metal surfaces for rust and treat with an anti-corrosion spray. Inspect rubber seals for hardening or deterioration, and replace if necessary.
8.3 Protective Covering and Indoor Storage
When not in use, cover with rain, snow, and frost-proof film. If conditions permit, store in a warehouse or carport.
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Dimensions |
Key Points |
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Engine & Chassis |
Cold start preheating, coolant antifreeze, brake system drainage, regular battery inspection |
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Mixing top |
Hydraulic preheating, engine oil and gear oil selection, grease selection, and installation of insulation jackets |
|
water supply system |
Drain residual water, antifreeze protection, additive preheating |
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Driving safety |
Slow down and drive slowly, the system assists in anti-skid |
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Cleaning inspection |
Establishing processes, replacement of worn parts |
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Storage protection |
Anti-corrosion spraying, air drying and cleaning, covered storage |
The core of winter maintenance lies in "predictive maintenance." Through scientific charging, precise lubrication, and standardized operation, equipment failure rates can be reduced by over 40%.
Whether you are a mixer truck driver or manager, winter maintenance is not only a responsibility but also a professional commitment. A comprehensive maintenance system can significantly reduce failures and wear, improving vehicle operating efficiency and construction safety. By implementing the detailed recommendations above, your mixer truck will be resilient in the cold winter and provide more stable and long-term project support.
If you have any questions about mixer truck maintenance or would like to order one, please contact us. We offer custom mixer truck services.
