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How to Measure a Drive Line for Water Trucks

Navigating the complexities of a water truck drive line size might seem daunting, but fear not. We’re here to guide you through the process of how to measure a drive line with precision.

Step 1: Get Your Tape Measure Ready

Like the trucks they serve, drive lines come in various shapes and sizes. You’ll need to roll up your sleeves and take a few measurements to pinpoint the perfect fit for your water truck.

For the most accurate assessment, measuring from the pump yoke’s tip to the PTO yoke’s tip is crucial. This measurement serves as your North Star, guiding you toward your water truck’s correct replacement drive line.

Step 2: Consult the Experts

Armed with your precise measurement, it’s time to seek expert guidance. Contact your trusted Parts Team at Ledwell and provide them with your measurements to ensure you receive the correct drive line size.

Step 3: Installation Time

Once your new drive line arrives, it’s time to bid farewell to the old and usher in the new. Install your replacement drive line carefully, ensuring a snug fit and proper alignment for optimal performance.

Step 4: Test the Waters

With your new drive line in place, it’s time to test it. Take your water truck for a spin.

Measuring and replacing your water truck’s drive line doesn’t have to be daunting. You can confidently navigate this process of how to measure a drive line with a tape measure and a keen eye for detail.

So, go forth, measure away, and keep your water truck rolling smoothly for miles to come!

Winterize Your Water Truck: Essential Tips for Cold Weather Protection

Tips for cold weather protection - Winterize your water truck

Preparing your water truck for the colder months becomes crucial as winter approaches to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Proper winterization safeguards your investment and ensures your equipment remains in top condition for the long haul. 

We will walk you through essential steps to effectively winterize your water truck, providing protection against freezing and maintaining optimal performance throughout the winter season.

Tips for cold weather protection - Winterize your water truck

Drain the System:

Begin winterization by thoroughly draining the water tank, pump, and all water lines. Ensure all drain valves and drain cocks are open to expel any residual water, paying close attention to low points where water might accumulate.

Check Seals and Gaskets:

Inspect all seals and gaskets for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged seals to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks, reducing the risk of water damage and corrosion.

Maintain Battery Health:

Cold temperatures can affect battery performance, so it’s essential to ensure your water truck’s battery is fully charged and in good condition to maintain optimal performance during winter.

Regular Maintenance Checks:

Throughout the winter season, perform regular maintenance checks on your water truck. Inspect for signs of freezing, corrosion, or damage, and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure reliable performance when warmer weather returns.

Winterizing your water truck protects your investment and maintains optimal performance during the colder months. By following these essential tips, you can ensure your water truck remains in top condition and ready for use when needed. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take proactive steps to winterize your water truck today and enjoy peace of mind throughout the winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Water Truck

Ledwell Water Truck spraying water from rear

Welcome to Ledwell’s Water Truck FAQ guide! We understand that operating and maintaining heavy equipment like water trucks can sometimes raise questions and uncertainties. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of frequently asked questions with clear answers to help you navigate common thoughts regarding your Ledwell Water Truck

Whether you’re curious about pump output, safety precautions, or maintenance procedures, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and address some of the most common questions to ensure you get the most out of your water truck.

Ledwell Water Truck spraying water from rear

What should the output of my water truck be?

Our water tanker pump is set to pump around 350 GPM at a 2000 RPM engine speed with approximately 55 PSI at the spray heads. You can expect a spray pattern 55′ wide by 30′ deep and a side spray reaching 65′ to 75′ out. Most PTOs operate in the 111% to 126% range, with the pump peaking at 2400-2500 RPM.

 

Can I haul and spray other liquids with my water truck?

We line our tanks with a coating to protect against corrosion. While it tolerates most chemicals, avoid strong acids, aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and chlorinated solvents. Always check the contents before loading mixed products.

 

Where can I get new safety decals for my Ledwell equipment?

We offer decal kits for every piece of equipment we manufacture. Contact our Parts Department for decals specific to your unit.

 

Which Ledwell equipment requires a CDL to operate?

A CDL (commercial driver’s license) is required for any vehicle rated over 26,000 pounds. Depending on the items being transported, additional endorsements might be needed.

 

Where can I find information on operating equipment?

Follow these steps or watch this operation video to learn how to operate your Ledwell Water Truck correctly. For a digital copy of an operation manual, contact our Service Department.

Where are the extra fuses for the PTO stored?

If your equipment is mounted on a truck, any extra fuses will be in the battery box.

 

How often should I inspect the PTO?

Check the PTO during the pre-operation inspection. Tighten bolts monthly according to the Capscrew Marking and Torque Values Chart.

 

What size drive line does my water truck use?

Driveline length varies depending on the truck and water tank size. For the most accurate measurement, measure from the pump yoke’s tip to the PTO yoke’s tip.

 

The pump on my water truck is leaking. How do I fix that?

Our pump is designed to leak to keep the packing cool. It should drip 40 to 60 drops a minute. Adjust the packing gland ring and the two threaded studs holding it. If adjustments are maxed out, it’s time to replace the packing.

 

Does Ledwell sell parts for their equipment?

Yes, contact our Parts Department for a quote on parts for any piece of Ledwell truck bodies or trailers.

We hope this FAQ guide has provided valuable insights and answers regarding your Ledwell Water Truck. Remember, correctly understanding and maintaining your equipment is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. 

Please contact our knowledgeable team at Ledwell if you have further questions. We’re dedicated to supporting you in every step of your water truck operation journey. Thank you for choosing Ledwell, where quality and reliability meet expertise.

Pump Maintenance Made Easy

Keeping a keen eye (and ear) on your equipment pump’s performance is crucial to continue running smoothly. Here’s a simple guide to help you maintain your pump maintenance effectively:

Pump Maintenance Observation Checklist:

 

Vibration:

While all machines produce some vibration, excessive vibration can shorten your pump’s lifespan.

If you notice excessive vibration, stop operation immediately, identify the cause, and fix it.

 

Noise:

Listen closely for unusual sounds, especially when the unit is under load.

Identify the cause of the noise and take corrective action promptly.

 

Operating Temperature:

Expect the pump bracket to be warm during operation (up to 150°F is normal).

If the temperature is excessively high, stop the operation, find the cause, and correct it.

Keep an eye on bearing temperatures, especially after packing; excessively hot bearings may need replacement.

The pump should run at the temperature of the water it’s pumping.

 

Stuffing Box:

Check that the stuffing box and gland are not overheating during operation.

If heating is detected, adjust gland nuts evenly until water leaks in droplet form – 40 to 60 drops per minute.

Periodically verify cool operation and adjust gland nuts, as necessary, for proper lubrication.

Ledwell Water Tank on Ford F750

Packing a Water Pump:

 

Starting a New Pump:

Before starting the pump for the first time, loosen and retighten gland nuts finger-tight.

Allow the packing to leak liberally initially, then gradually tighten gland nuts until leakage is 40 to 60 drops per minute.

 

Repacking:

Follow illustrations for proper repacking procedures.

Ensure adequate drainage in cold/wet weather to prevent freezing damage.

Provide shelter for the unit if possible and ensure proper ventilation.

Consider using a space heater to prevent condensation and corrosion in severe weather conditions.

Packing Replacement Procedure:

 

Removal:

Unfasten the hardware holding the Packing Gland in place and slide it back on the shaft.

Remove packing rings using commercially available Packing Hooks.

Remove any remaining rings, including metallic ones, in the same manner.

 

Installation:

Clean the shaft sleeve and Packing Gland before installing new rings.

Inspect the shaft sleeve for wear and replace if necessary.

Install new packing rings over the shaft sleeve, rotating each ring joint 90 degrees during installation.

Gently and evenly tighten gland nuts to seat the rings without over-tightening.

Start the pump and allow the packing to leak initially.

Gradually tighten gland nuts until leakage is 40 to 60 drops per minute.

With these simple pump maintenance steps, you can ensure your pump operates smoothly and efficiently, keeping your business running without a hitch.

Mastering Water Truck Maintenance: A Guide for Equipment Owners

As an equipment owner, you’re the guardian of longevity for your machinery. Your role is crucial in ensuring that your equipment operates smoothly and stands the test of time. With this water truck maintenance guide, you’ll gain the knowledge and tools to effectively maintain your Ledwell Water Truck and keep it in peak condition for years.

Freightliner Water Truck Sold By Ledwell

Why Water Truck Maintenance Matters

 

Efficiency: Routine maintenance ensures your equipment operates efficiently, delivering optimal performance with every task.

 

Longevity: Regularly servicing your machinery can extend its operational life, maximizing your investment and minimizing the need for costly replacements.

 

Cost Reduction: Preventative maintenance reduces downtime and reduces the risk of unexpected repairs, resulting in significant cost savings over time.

 

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your equipment is well-maintained provides peace of mind, alleviating stress and worry associated with potential breakdowns or malfunctions.

Performing routine maintenance is not just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your investment and lowering ownership costs over the long term.

Sticking to a Structured Water Truck Maintenance Plan

A structured maintenance plan is the key to optimizing equipment performance and ensuring its durability and reliability. Here’s a breakdown of the specific maintenance checks you should perform on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis for your water truck:

 

Daily Service Checks:

Check brake lights and turn signals to ensure proper functionality.

Inspect reflectors and conspicuity tape for visibility and compliance.

Monitor tire pressure and condition, adjusting as necessary.

Verify the tightness of wheels and lug nuts to prevent accidents.

Check oil levels in axle hubs for proper lubrication.

Test brake functionality to ensure safe operation.

Inspect Power Take Off (PTO) for any signs of leaking.

Check electric and air connections for loose or damaged wires.

Inspect the structure of the equipment for signs of wear or damage.

Ensure mud flaps are secure and in good condition.

Check fluid levels, including hydraulic fluid and coolant.

Inspect the pump for any signs of damage or malfunction.

 

Monthly Service Checks:

Monitor pump packing, ensuring a recommended leakage of 40 to 60 drops per minute for optimal performance.

Inspect the Drive Line and lubricate u-joints to prevent wear and tear.

Check PTO bolts to ensure they are tight and secure.

 

Seasonal Water Truck Maintenance:

If freezing temperatures are imminent, open all valves and drain cocks to drain the system completely, preventing damage from ice formation.

Following these schedules and performing regular checks will ensure your equipment operates at full capacity, maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime. So, keep those machines humming and watch your efficiency soar!

Capacity Meets Reliability: Exploring Ledwell’s Versatile Water Truck Solutions

Ledwell offers extraordinary water truck models that will elevate your business operations to new heights. Let’s dive into the world of water trucks:

The Exceptional 2000 Gallon Water Truck: Versatility Redefined

Ledwell’s 2000 Gallon Water Truck is a versatile solution across various industries. Whether combating dust on construction sites or facilitating irrigation for agricultural jobs, this water truck rises to every challenge. Equipped with convenient in-cab controls, a contained hose reel featuring storage, and numerous filling options, it sets a new standard for adaptability and convenience.

What distinguishes the Ledwell 2000 Gallon Water Truck is its exceptional performance across any terrain. From navigating tight construction zones to traversing large agricultural landscapes, this powerhouse effortlessly ensures water distribution. Engineered with a protective interior coating, it guarantees longevity even in harsh conditions, promising sustained performance.

2000 Gallon Quality Water Trucks For Sale
Ledwell Water Tanker Truck For Sale

The Mighty 4000 Gallon Water Truck: Unrivaled Capacity

With its capacity, the Ledwell 4000 Gallon Water Truck is the ideal solution for projects of any size and complexity. This beast easily handles tough tasks with independent spray functions, including side spray options. Whether combating dust or wildfires, this water truck embodies reliability and performance.

Crafted with high-strength steel and fortified with a protective interior coating, the Ledwell 4000 gallon Water Truck is engineered to withstand the most challenging environments like our 2000 gallon. Its crosswise and longitudinal baffles ensure stability during transit while offering multiple filling options to enhance flexibility.

Choosing Your Ideal Water Truck: A Testament to Excellence

In the world of water trucks, Ledwell’s flagship models shine as symbols of reliability and performance. Whether you opt for the versatility of the 2000 Gallon Water Truck or the sheer capacity of the 4000 Gallon Water Truck, Ledwell guarantees a product designed to exceed expectations.

With Ledwell’s steadfast commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, you can trust that your investment in a water truck will produce unparalleled results. From dust suppression to firefighting, Ledwell empowers your business with top-of-the-line solutions engineered to excel – every single time.

Unlocking the Benefits of a Ledwell Water Truck:

Advanced Bumper/Hose Reel:

– Equipped with a rear hose reel housed within a protective frame-mounted housing.

– Features a storage box for side nozzles, suction hoses, and other essentials.

Reinforced Valves & Plumbing:

– Includes an internal primer tank for constant readiness in water pickup.

– Ensures durability with robust piping tested to 120 psi.

Sturdy Keel Design:

– Boasts a quad-bent design with extensive tank support.

– Interior welding eliminates linear cracking for enhanced longevity.

Superior Lighting System:

– Features a sealed wiring harness for reliable performance.

– Complies with DOT standards for safety and visibility.

Durable Liner Construction:

– Tanks undergo blasting inside and outside before receiving a two-part VOC free liner.

– Offers a finished thickness of 30 mils, compliant with potable water regulations.

Powerful Pump Mechanism:

– Utilizes an American-built pump renowned for its reliability.

– Equipped with a robust drive-line rated for high torque at 3500 rpm.

Optimized Weight Distribution:

– Designed to meet Federal Bridge Law Limits for optimal weight distribution on most 2000 gallon models.

– Incorporates American-made air-operated valves and in-cab controls.

Assurance of Quality:

– Each tank undergoes rigorous testing in various scenarios to ensure performance.

– Ledwell’s commitment to prompt service ensures same-day shipment of parts and unparalleled customer support.

Quality Water Trucks - Ledwell Water Tank Truck

Ledwell Water Trucks are testaments to innovation and quality in water truck solutions. Whether you require versatility, capacity, or both, Ledwell offers the perfect solution to meet your business needs. Invest in Ledwell and unlock unparalleled efficiency and reliability in your operations.

Top 6 Uses for Water Tank Trucks: From Dust Control to Firefighting

Ledwell Water Truck for sale

Water trucks are versatile vehicles that play a vital role in many industries. These trucks are essential for various tasks, from taming unruly dust clouds to quenching the thirst of parched crops. Let’s dive into the top six applications for water trucks and uncover the benefits they bring to each:

Ledwell Water Tank Trucks For Sale

1. Dust Control:

 

Benefits:

Water Trucks help suppress dust and airborne particles, creating a cleaner, safer work environment. They reduce visibility hazards caused by dust clouds, enhancing safety for workers and motorists. They also prevent dust infiltration into machinery, lowering maintenance costs.

 

Key Feature:

The Water Cannon option provides efficient, targeted, and versatile dust suppression capabilities, improving operational effectiveness and safety. Its user-friendly controls, operable from within the truck’s cab, allow quick adjustments and operational convenience without exiting the vehicle.

 

Who might require water tank trucks for dust control:

  • Construction companies
  • Mining operations
  • Race Tracks
  • Landfills
  • Industrial facilities

2. Soil Compaction:

 

Benefits:

Moistens dry soil, making compaction easier and more efficient. They facilitate the smooth operation of compaction equipment, boosting productivity. Water Trucks reduce dust generation during soil compaction, maintaining a clean work site.

 

Key Feature:

Independent spray heads allow for precise water distribution, ensuring water is applied exactly where needed. This targeted approach helps achieve uniform soil moisture, crucial for effective compaction.

 

Who might require water tank trucks for soil compaction:

Ledwell Water Tanker Truck For Sale

3. Farming:

 

Benefits:

Provides essential irrigation for crops, ensuring optimal growth and yield. Water Tank Trucks mitigate the effects of drought by supplying water during dry spells. Supports soil conservation efforts by reducing erosion.

 

Key Feature:

Whether the task is irrigating fields, washing equipment, or providing water for livestock, an adjustable nozzle can adapt to various farming needs. This makes the water truck a multifunctional tool on the farm, enhancing its overall utility.

 

Who might require water tank trucks for farming:

  • Agricultural enterprises 
  • Farms
  • Vineyards
  • Orchards
  • Nurseries

4. Street Cleaning:

 

Benefits:

Water Trucks help remove dirt and debris from roads and sidewalks, enhancing cleanliness. They also reduce slip-and-fall accidents caused by slippery surfaces and prevent pollutants from entering waterways.

 

Key Feature:

Multiple spray head options are available to accommodate the work to be done. Duck Bill spray heads are perfect for aiming the stream of water towards the curb to remove debris from roadways efficiently.

 

Who might require water tank trucks for cleaning streets:

  • Municipalities
  • City maintenance departments
  • County precincts 
  • Road maintenance contractors
  • Cleaning service providers
Ledwell Fire Tanker Truck for sale

5. Fire Control:

 

Benefits:

Crucial for wildfire suppression, Water Trucks or Tenders provide firefighters with a water source. They protect lives, property, and natural habitats from wildfires and enhance firefighting efforts by quickly deploying water.

 

Key Feature:

Water cannons can project water over long distances, allowing firefighters to target and suppress fires from a safe distance. They can switch from a concentrated stream for high-intensity fires to a wide spray for broader coverage and cooling surrounding areas.

 

Who might require water tank trucks for fire control:

  • Fire departments
  • Emergency response agencies
  • Forestry services
  • Wildfire management teams

6. Potable Water Delivery:

 

Benefits:

Potable Water Trucks supply clean drinking water to areas lacking access to municipal systems. They support humanitarian aid by delivering water to disaster-stricken communities and promote public health and hygiene.

 

Key Feature:

The two-part VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compounds-free) protective liner prevents contamination from the tank’s materials, ensuring the water maintains its purity and quality throughout transportation. This consistency is vital for maintaining public health standards and ensuring that the water delivered is of the highest quality

 

Who might require water tank trucks for delivering potable water:

Water trucks’ versatility knows no bounds, with applications ranging from dust control to firefighting. Whether it’s maintaining safe work environments, supporting agricultural endeavors, or aiding in emergency response efforts, these vital vehicles continue to prove their worth across multiple industries. 

Elevating Water Truck Performance

Quality Water Trucks - Ledwell Water Tank Truck

In the world of water trucks, Ledwell offers top-tier models and incorporates many benefits that enhance functionality and reliability. Let’s dive into the added advantages that improve these industry-leading water truck performance:

HOSE REEL

Equipped with a rear hose reel housed within a frame-mounted protective housing, and features a storage box for side nozzles, suction hoses, and other essential equipment.

PLUMBING

Includes an internal primer tank ensuring readiness to pick up water from any source.

KEEL

A quad-bent design with 1,528 square inches of tank support for structural integrity and interior welded seams to eliminate linear cracking. Contains piping tested to withstand up to 120 psi of pressure.

LINER

Tanks undergo blasting inside and outside before applying a two-part VOC-free liner, with a finished thickness of 30 mils to ensure compliance with potable water standards.

PUMP

Featuring an American-built pump, boasting a 1 ¼” input shaft with a two-bearing system and a 3” diameter drive-line rated at 500 ft lbs of torque at 3500 rpm, it discharges at higher pressures while safeguarding the pump and drive-line during shutdown.

WEIGHT

For 2,000 Gallon models, it meets Federal Bridge Law Limits at 33,000 GVW trucks and includes a cab-view water level gauge, essential for proper loading of 26,000 GVW trucks.

Ledwell Water Trucks excel in performance and reliability, setting new standards for functionality and customer satisfaction.

Each tank undergoes water loading and testing in various scenarios to ensure optimal performance, featuring a fully baffled tank design with cross-sectional and longitudinal baffles.

Every water truck is built with uncompromising quality and dedication to customer satisfaction, reflecting Ledwell’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of water truck design and manufacturing. Experience the difference with Ledwell.

Upholding Quality: Ledwell’s Commitment to Code Welder Testing

In manufacturing, ensuring equipment safety and reliability is crucial, especially in pressure vessels and boilers used in vacuum trucks, where following standards can mean the difference between success and disaster. Ledwell, known for its dedication to quality, incorporates the ASME Code Welder Testing into its manufacturing process to uphold the highest safety and reliability standards.

The ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Certification Program sets the benchmark for the design, fabrication, assembly, and inspection of boiler and pressure vessel components during construction. This program ensures that products manufactured by ASME BPVC Certificate Holders comply with rigorous quality control standards.

Ethan Bush, who took the test earlier this year, stated the importance of preparation for the ASME Code Welder Testing. He said, “I expected it to be difficult because they wouldn’t make it easy for a good product. You have to be able to deal with difficulty.” Ethan’s dedication to his craft and willingness to take advice from experienced welders are key factors in his success.

Juan Escobedo agreed with Ethan’s advice, saying, “Take your time and consider the advice from everyone who has taken the test.” His commitment to excellence highlights Ledwell’s focus on continuous improvement and attention to detail.

“Be the guy that’s never satisfied with how your weld looks. Be the guy that when it comes out of your bay, it’s correct. It looks good. Be the guy that your supervisor knows he can depend on to do it right, do it fast, and be dependable.”

Brad Stringer
Fabrication Shop Foreman

Brad Stringer, Fabrication Shop Foreman, plays a key role in mentoring welders through the testing process at Ledwell. He stresses the importance of being thorough in welding: “Learning to be meticulous is probably one of the biggest parts of the test because it’s no longer just welding; it has to be right.” His leadership and expertise help welders meet the exact standards of the ASME Code Test. Under his guidance, eight employees have passed the ASME Code Welder Test this year.

Ledwell’s commitment to ASME standards is a big part of the engineering legacy. Since introducing the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code in 1914, ASME has been essential in setting safety standards and certifications that enhance operational efficiency and reliability in machine design and production.

By investing in welder training and certification and strictly following ASME standards, Ledwell ensures its vacuum trucks meet the highest quality criteria, giving customers confidence in their reliability.

Protect Your Cargo with Ledwell Gull Wing™: The Ultimate Solution for Safeguarding Cargo from the Elements

Are you tired of your deliveries being at the mercy of the weather? Look no further than the Ledwell Gull Wing™, the premier choice to safeguard cargo from the elements. With its innovative design and superior functionality, the Gull Wing™ offers a groundbreaking alternative to traditional curtain side trailers and stakebed trucks, ensuring your materials arrive safely and intact at their destination.

We understand the importance of protecting cargo from rain, snow, sun, and other environmental hazards. Our patented truck is engineered to provide unparalleled protection against the elements. Whether transporting sensitive electronics, delicate machinery, or perishable goods, you can trust the Gull Wing™ to keep your materials safe and secure throughout the journey.

The Ledwell Gull Wing™ is not just a one-size-fits-all solution. One of its key advantages is its versatility and customization options.

Our classic model features a 25’ 6” steel bed length, perfect for accommodating multiple pallets along the length of the bed. However, we understand that every business has unique needs and requirements. That’s why Ledwell offers customization options to tailor the Gull Wing™ to your specifications, ensuring that it meets your transportation needs.

The unique wing design allows for safe and efficient loading and unloading of heavy materials from both sides of the truck. Combined with center tie-downs, aluminum skin, and a full-function wireless remote, the Gull Wing provides added convenience and peace of mind during transportation.

In fact, one of our customers experienced a remarkable increase in on-time delivery rates, soaring to an impressive 98% from 87% after switching from a flatbed trailer to the Gull Wing™.

In addition to its exceptional performance, the Ledwell Gull Wing™ offers a range of optional extras to enhance its functionality and versatility further. It can be customized to suit your needs, from a multi-view camera system for enhanced visibility to low clearance half-hinge doors and a forklift package for added convenience.

When protecting cargo during transportation, trust the Ledwell Gull Wing™ to deliver unparalleled performance and peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how the future of curtain side trucks can revolutionize your transportation operations and keep your materials safe from the elements.

Gull Wing by Ledwell