Regular Maintenance Schedule
Interval: Every 6 months or 1,000 km (whichever comes first)
Axle Assembly Maintenance
If the wheel is equipped with a dust cap, remove the cap bolts and take off the cap. If no dust cap is present, skip this step.
Use a wrench to loosen and remove the wheel nuts, then remove the wheel.
Gently tap the dust cap with a rubber mallet to create a gap, then pry it off with a flat-head screwdriver. Do not reuse a dust cap if it is damaged during removal, as it may fit loosely and detach during operation.
Remove the split pin with pliers, unscrew the slotted nut with a wrench, and then sequentially remove the flat washer, small bearing, brake drum, oil seal, and large bearing. Inspect the bearings for any signs of damage or wear.
Check the brake drum friction plate (brake lining). Replace it if the thickness is less than 5 mm.
After cleaning all old grease from the bearings, evenly apply new high-speed bearing grease inside the bearing chamber (including the ball surfaces) and fill the inner cavity of the brake drum with grease as well.
After greasing, reinstall the large bearing, oil seal, brake drum, and small bearing in sequence. Then install the washer and tighten the slotted nut, backing it off approximately 1/3 turn to align the nut slot with the pin hole for the split pin. Throughout the entire disassembly and reassembly process, ensure no dust or debris enters the brake drum, as contamination may create safety hazards.
Once maintenance is complete, install an undamaged dust cover and the wheel, then secure the wheel with nuts. Pay close attention to proper tightening torque—excessive torque may cause bolt failure. Finally, reinstall the wheel dust cap.
Important: Regularly check for loose nuts, as loosening may lead to bolt breakage.
Notes
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake before removing or installing the axle.
When using tools such as a hydraulic jack, place a load distribution pad between the jack and the axle beam to prevent deformation. Ensure the vehicle remains stable after lifting.
Visually inspect all components every 1,000–2,000 km for damage or wear, and replace parts as needed.
Support System Inspection
Ensure all fasteners on bunks or rollers are free of rust, bunks are free of mildew, and rubber rollers show no cracks.
Brake System: Check the hydraulic brake reservoir fluid level and top up with DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid if it falls below the MIN mark. Do not use general hydraulic oil. Clean the interior of drum brakes to remove accumulated dust.
Structural Integrity Inspection
Frame: Carefully inspect all weld seams for cracks. For hot-dip galvanized components, apply cold galvanizing spray as needed. In seawater service environments, reapply every 6 months, or grind and respray if any rust appears.
Suspension System: Ensure leaf springs are free of cracks or breakage, and tighten U-bolts to the specified torque (typically 80–100 ft·lbs).
Wear Part Replacement
Replace the winch strap immediately if it shows signs of wear or loose stitching. Mandatory annual replacement is required, as UV degradation may not be visible to the naked eye.
Replace brake pads if the thickness is less than 3 mm. Replace hydraulic lines every 2 years.
