Service

In the world of operating water trucks, efficiency is the name of the game. Whether navigating construction sites or taming dusty race tracks, your Ledwell Water Truck is your trusty companion, ready to tackle any task. To ensure smooth operations and extend the lifespan of your equipment, follow these steps  for how to operate a water truck closely:

Step 1: Pre-Trip Inspection

Before hitting the road, conduct a thorough walk-around inspection of your water truck. Check the wheels and tires for any signs of wear and tear. Inspect the PTO for leaks and ensure a tight connection in the driveline. Tighten pump bolts and verify a slow drip at the packing. Attention to detail during this inspection will set the stage for a successful day.

Step 2: Filling the Tank

When it comes to filling the water tank, you have several options depending on your water source:

Fire Hydrant Fill:

Securely connect a hose to the tank’s rear pipe and attach the other end to a fire hydrant. Turn on the hydrant to begin filling, keeping an eye on the Road Limit gauge at the front of the tank to prevent overfilling.

Top Fill:

Open the manway lid at the top of the tank, if applicable, and correctly position the water source over the tank’s opening for filling.

Suction Hose Fill:

Close the butterfly valve on the suction side of the pump and attach the fill hose. Open the primer tank valve on the driver side to allow water to fill the system, releasing air through the bleeder valve. Engage the PTO, set the RPM, and monitor the tank’s filling progress. Once full, shut the primer tank valve. Remove the fill hose, replace the cap, and prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Initiating the Spray

With your tank filled and ready for action, it’s time to put your water truck to work:

Side Spray Activation:

Attach the side spray if needed and engage the PTO. Pull the necessary valves in the cab to activate the nozzles and drive as required while monitoring water levels. 

Front & Rear Spray Activation:

Engage the PTO and pull the necessary valves in the cab to activate the nozzles and drive as required while monitoring water levels. 

Hose Reel Mastery:

Engage the PTO and manually open the gate valve at the rear passenger side of the tank. Adjust the nozzle for precise spraying.

Exercise caution when closing spray valves at high engine RPMs to avoid mishaps. Disengage the PTO once the task is complete.

By mastering the operation of your Ledwell Water Truck, you’re not just completing a job—you’re ensuring the success and efficiency of every endeavor. So, gear up, follow these steps, and let your water truck shine.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.