Caution for Grease Application on Truck-Mounted Cranes

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It is often said that for special vehicles, seven parts lie in maintenance and three parts in repair. Master Zhang, a truck-mounted crane driver, asserts that this statement is highly reasonable. If the vehicle undergoes timely maintenance, the likelihood of malfunction is significantly reduced. However, improper maintenance can have adverse consequences. Many individuals tend to fall into maintenance misconceptions when attending to truck-mounted cranes. Today, the editor will present to you the dos and don’ts of grease application for truck-mounted cranes.

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It is strictly prohibited to apply grease on the cylinder gasket. Grease is a frequently utilized lubricating substance in vehicle repair, serving the functions of lubrication and sealing. Consequently, some people mistakenly apply a layer of grease on the cylinder gasket during its installation, believing that this action would enhance the sealing performance of the diesel engine. Little do they realize that such a practice actually has a detrimental impact on the operational performance of the diesel engine.
The cylinder gasket holds a crucial position as the primary seal between the diesel engine and the cylinder head. It not only effectively seals the high-temperature and high-pressure gas generated within the cylinder but also ensures the containment of the cooling water and lubricating oil within the cylinder head and cylinder body. Hence, when disassembling and reassembling the cylinder gasket, utmost attention must be paid to its sealing quality.

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When grease is applied on the cylinder gasket, upon tightening the cylinder gasket bolts, a portion of the grease gets squeezed into the cylinder’s water channel and oil channel. The remaining grease trapped between the cylinder gaskets, when the cylinder is in operation, is subjected to high temperatures. Some of it flows into the cylinder for combustion, while the rest remains on the joint surface of the cylinder body and cylinder head, inducing friction between the cylinder gasket, cylinder head, and the plane of the engine body. The high-temperature and high-pressure gas can readily exert an impact on the cylinder gasket from these areas, causing damage to the gasket and resulting in air leakage.
Furthermore, if the grease remains in a high-temperature state for an extended period, carbon deposits are formed, leading to premature aging and deterioration of the cylinder gasket. Therefore, under no circumstances should grease be applied on the cylinder gasket.

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Let’s elaborate on this point. The cylinder gasket is engineered to provide a precise and reliable seal under specific conditions. The addition of grease can disrupt the delicate balance of forces and sealing mechanisms, leading to compromised performance and potential engine damage. The interaction of the gasket with the engine components is a complex process that requires precise engineering and maintenance practices to ensure optimal functionality.
There are definite taboos when it comes to applying grease on tire nuts. In an attempt to prevent rust and ensure tightness of the nuts, some individuals resort to applying grease on the bolt and nut of the tire. This is a misconceived approach as it is incorrect. Once the tire nut is tightened, the thread exhibits a self-locking feature. This is because the helix angle of the thread is smaller than the equivalent friction angle between the threads. In a given bolt connection, the helix angle remains a fixed value, while the equivalent friction angle varies depending on the friction state between the threads.

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When grease is applied on the tire nut, the equivalent friction angle between the threads decreases, thereby deteriorating the self-locking performance of the bolt connection. As a result, applying grease or lubricating oil on the bolts and nuts of the tire should be avoided at all costs. This could instead lead to the loosening of the nuts more easily and potentially even cause serious accidents.
The maintenance of truck-mounted cranes encompasses every aspect, ranging from the crane itself to the tiniest bolts. The upkeep of these accessories is of paramount significance. Have you been carrying out the maintenance of your vehicle in the correct manner?

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Proper maintenance of a truck-mounted crane involves a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s components and their specific requirements. Neglecting these details or adhering to incorrect practices can lead to suboptimal performance, reduced lifespan of components, and potential safety hazards. It is essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and industry best practices to ensure the reliable and safe operation of the vehicle.
In conclusion, the application of grease in the maintenance of truck-mounted cranes requires careful consideration and adherence to correct procedures. By avoiding these common mistakes, vehicle owners and maintenance personnel can enhance the performance, longevity, and safety of the truck-mounted cranes.

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