The engine is the core component of the wheel loader, affecting work efficiency, fuel consumption, and many other factors. So, how do you maintain the engine of a wheel loader? Today, we will help you answer this question.

LUGONG Wheel Loader Engine Maintenance Guide

Engine Oil and Filter Management

Regular Oil Changes: Engine oil is the “lifeblood” of the engine. It is recommended to change the oil every 200 hours or quarterly. If working conditions are harsh, this interval can be shortened to every 100 hours. Replace the oil filter simultaneously to prevent impurities from circulating and damaging internal components.

Fuel Filter Maintenance: Clean or replace the fuel filter every 200 hours to prevent impurities from clogging the fuel lines and ensure fuel purity.

Air Filter Cleaning: Inspect the air filter every 50 hours. If dust accumulation exceeds 50%, clean it immediately. When working in dusty environments, it is advisable to shorten the inspection interval. Replace the filter element if necessary to avoid dust entering the cylinders and causing wear.

Cooling System Maintenance

Antifreeze Selection: In winter, use high-quality antifreeze with a freezing point lower than the local minimum temperature (e.g., -40°C or lower). Replace it annually to prevent corrosion of the radiator and pipes.

Radiator Cleaning: Clean the radiator and surface contaminants every 600 hours to ensure cooling efficiency and prevent engine overheating.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Every 50 Hours:

Tighten the drive shaft bolts, check the transmission oil level and brake system oil volume, and lubricate the articulation points and bearings.

Every 200 Hours:

Check the gear oil levels in the front and rear axles, clean or replace the engine oil, diesel, and transmission oil filters, and measure tire pressure (0.27~0.31 MPa).

Every 600 Hours:

Replace the gear oil in the front and rear axles and the transmission oil, clean the diesel tank suction filter, check the engine valve clearance, and clean radiator contaminants.

Every 2400 Hours:

Perform a comprehensive inspection of the engine, transmission, and front and rear axles according to the manual, identify potential faults, and repair issues such as weld cracks.

Special Environment Maintenance Recommendations

Winter Low-Temperature Protection:

Use high-grade diesel (with a cold filter plugging point lower than the ambient temperature), clean the water separator and fuel tank sediment to prevent fuel line freezing.

Check the water pump seal to prevent antifreeze from leaking into the engine oil and causing emulsification.

High-Temperature Environment Response:

Strengthen coolant level monitoring and replenish or replace it in time; avoid shutting down the engine immediately when it is hot to prevent “cylinder sticking” accidents.

Operation and Inspection Standards

Pre-Start Inspection:

Daily checks for oil, water, and air leaks, normal instrument lights, tire pressure, and bolt tightness.

Operation Monitoring:

Pay attention to abnormal engine noises (such as metal knocking sounds that may indicate connecting rod bearing wear), stop the engine in time for inspection to avoid major failures. Monitor parameters such as water temperature (60~95°C) and oil pressure (>0.5 MPa) to ensure stable operation.

Post-Operation Maintenance

After shutting down the engine, check the oil level, clean the air filter and body dust, and record maintenance data for future reference.

Conclusion

The engine maintenance of LUGONG wheel loaders requires adherence to scientific cycles and standardized operations, covering core aspects such as oil changes, filter cleaning, and cooling system maintenance. Through phased regular inspections and deep maintenance, the engine’s lifespan can be significantly extended, and work efficiency improved. Regularly recording maintenance data and referring to the manual are key to ensuring the efficient operation of LUGONG wheel loaders.