With the continuous escalation of oil prices, the issue of fuel conservation has emerged as a paramount concern for truck drivers. Take the case of truck-mounted cranes among special vehicles, for instance. A user of a truck-mounted crane reached out to us, expressing their concern about the escalating fuel consumption of their vehicle. What could be the underlying cause? There must undoubtedly be an issue with some component of the truck-mounted crane. Today, I am going to share with you some valuable knowledge and insights I have previously compiled regarding the fuel consumption of truck-mounted cranes.
Let’s start by looking at the tires of the truck-mounted crane. If these tires are severely worn, skidding is likely to occur frequently. Such skidding not only poses safety risks but also significantly boosts fuel consumption. The solution here is straightforward – replace the worn-out tires with new ones. This simple measure can greatly improve traction and reduce the unnecessary waste of fuel.
Another aspect to consider is the condition of the intake and exhaust valves and their seats. Poor contact or improper adjustment of the valve clearance can have a notable impact on the engine’s performance and, consequently, fuel efficiency. This issue can often be identified through the sound the engine makes and by measuring the cylinder pressure. The remedy involves grinding the valves and precisely adjusting the valve clearance to ensure optimal engine operation and fuel consumption.
When you’re on the road with your truck-mounted crane and notice abnormal noises emanating from the wheels, it’s essential to promptly inspect the bearing and braking system. If the wheels aren’t rotating smoothly and evenly, it will undoubtedly have an adverse effect on the vehicle’s speed and lead to an increase in fuel consumption. To prevent this, make it a routine to regularly inspect and maintain the bearing and braking system.
Temperature also plays a crucial role in the fuel consumption of your truck-mounted crane. If the operating temperature is relatively high, it’s necessary to remove the scale that may have accumulated in the radiator and the engine water jacket. At the same time, adjust the tension of the fan belt, conduct an overhaul of the water pump, and carefully check and adjust the angle of the fan blades. Conversely, if the temperature is too low, ensure that the shutter is tightly closed and inspect the working condition of the thermostat. Also, check the insulation cover for heating to ensure it is functioning properly and providing the necessary insulation.
Clutch slipping is another factor that can cause the engine’s output efficiency to plummet. In a situation where you notice a rapid increase in the engine tachometer during emergency acceleration but a sluggish increase in the vehicle’s speed, it’s a clear indication that the clutch is slipping. To address this problem, the clutch disc and clutch pressure plate need to be replaced to restore the proper transfer of power and improve fuel efficiency.
If the brake hub becomes hot and the brakes are dragging, it results in an increase in resistance as the temperature rises. This, in turn, contributes to higher fuel consumption. The solution is to precisely adjust the gap between the brake hub and the brake pad to ensure smooth and efficient braking without causing unnecessary drag.
The state of the exhaust pipe can also provide valuable clues about fuel consumption. When black smoke is emitted from the exhaust pipe, it’s a sign that the carburetor may require attention. If the carburetor is merely dirty, a cleaning agent can be sprayed directly into the inlet. However, if the dirt accumulation is severe, disassembling and thoroughly cleaning the carburetor may be necessary.
Finally, the spark plugs of the truck-mounted crane should not be overlooked. If they have been in use for an extended period, the ignition energy will diminish, resulting in increased fuel consumption. The simple solution is to replace the spark plugs at the appropriate intervals to ensure efficient combustion and fuel utilization.
When faced with a sudden and significant increase in the fuel consumption of your truck-mounted crane, there’s no need to panic. The key lies in accurately identifying the root cause of the problem. By systematically inspecting and addressing each of these potential areas of concern, you can restore the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and ensure smooth and economical operation.
Regular maintenance and vigilant monitoring of the vehicle’s various components are essential for optimal performance and fuel economy. Keeping a detailed maintenance log and adhering to a scheduled inspection routine can help catch potential issues before they escalate and cause significant disruptions and increased costs.
In conclusion, understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to increased fuel consumption in your truck-mounted crane is not only crucial for cost savings but also for the overall reliability and longevity of the vehicle. By taking proactive measures and staying on top of maintenance, you can ensure that your truck-mounted crane operates efficiently and economically on the road.
