Contractors and landscape companies often own small to medium dump trucks for use on the job site. The key to keeping your dump truck up and running is proper maintenance. While basic vehicle maintenance is part of it, there is more to do when you are dealing with a dump truck. 

Oil Changes and Basic Maintenance

Your dump truck does need to have the oil and filter changed just like any truck. The tires should be rotated, and the transmission fluid or oil needs to be checked, and the entire truck still needs regular lubrication. Make sure that you keep this schedule so that the truck runs and drives properly.

Hydraulic System Maintenance

The hydraulic system that operates the bed also needs attention. Check the level of hydraulic oil in the tank regularly. If the level gets low, the body may not dump, and it could indicate a leak in the system. Along with the oil, it is essential to change the filter on the hydraulic system. Check with the manufacturer to see what interval they recommend for filter changes. It will more than likely be listed in hours because mileage does not affect the hydraulic system. 

Check the Hoses and Belts

The hydraulic system has several hoses that run from the oil tank to the oil pump and then to the hydraulic piston. Check the hoses for cracks, worn jacketing, or damage that could become a problem. Hoses with damage should be changed right away with new hoses. Along with the hoses, if your truck uses a hydraulic pump driven off the engine, the belt should be inspected as well. If it is worn or damaged, replace it right away.

Keep it Greased

The dump body on your dump truck needs to have the hinges greased regularly. The pivot points on the rear of the body will have grease fittings that you can use to lubricate the bearings inside those hinges. Raise the body and grease these fittings several times a month. While you are under there, take a good look at the hydraulic piston and grease the fittings where the piston attaches to the frame. 

Keep the Body In Good Shape

The dump body on your truck is going to see the most use, and there will be paint scraped off, dents in the body, and wear on the body over time. Painting the body once a year is an excellent way to keep it looking good and protect the steel from rusting. The paint for the dump body does not need to be something special, but get something that is durable, and you can brush or roll it onto the metal for easy application.

If you don't have time to maintain a dump truck, you may want to hire a company like Bobby Hoelscher Trucking Inc to do your hauling instead of having your own truck.