As a member of hazardous materials transport vehicles, how much do you know about the maintenance of tank trucks? We all know that any vehicle requires maintenance, but there are also misunderstandings in maintenance. Do you know the maintenance misunderstandings of tank trucks?
Misunderstanding 1: Always Inflating Tire Pressure Too High
Many drivers prefer to adjust tire pressure very high, believing it can save fuel and allow overloading. In fact, this is incorrect. Excessively high tire pressure reduces the tire's contact area with the ground, causing severe tread wear and decreasing braking effectiveness during braking, which undoubtedly affects driving safety. However, too low tire pressure is also problematic: it accelerates shoulder wear, increases vehicle fuel consumption, and similarly impacts driving safety and braking performance.
Misunderstanding 2: Always Overfilling Engine Oil
Many drivers worry about insufficient engine oil and always fill it to the brim. However, many are unaware that excessive oil volume increases the rotational resistance of the crank connecting rod mechanism and increases the amount of oil splashing onto the cylinder wall. Excess oil also leads to increased carbon deposits in the combustion chamber and decreased engine power, thereby affecting emissions. In fact, the oil volume should neither be too large nor too small. Generally, add oil according to the scale on the dipstick: the oil level should not exceed the upper limit of the scale at most, nor be lower than the lower limit. Ideally, the oil level should be slightly above the middle of the scale.
Misunderstanding 3: Over-tightening Vehicle Bolts
Generally, for bolts in various parts of a tank truck, depending on their diameter, pitch, and purpose, there are corresponding regulations for tightening torque. If the specified torque is not met, bolts will loosen; if the tightening torque is exceeded, bolts will be elongated. When tightening bolts, it is necessary to clarify their tightening torque.
Misunderstanding 4: Believing That Accessory Belts Should Be Tighter Rather Than Looser
Many tank truck owners think that increasing the tension of accessory belts can improve the cooling effect of the compressor and the power generation of the alternator. In fact, this approach is wrong. Accessory belts should maintain appropriate tension because overly tight belts increase bearing load, shorten component service life, and cause belt breakage, ultimately affecting the normal use of the vehicle.