If you own a concrete company, then being sidelined due to an in-operatable truck means lost time and money.  Additionally, you’ll have dissatisfied customers. Consequently, it is imperative that you have a standard maintenance routine to ensure your trucks are always ready to go.

Like any vehicle, there are basic jobs that must be done regularly.  These include changing the filters, replacing oil, keeping parts clean, etc.  But with a concrete truck, there are other tasks that can quickly affect your company’s reputation and product’s performance.

Maintenance Jobs for the Mixer Truck

Stay up to Date –

Keep a checklist, logbook, or use an app to track any maintenance, repairs, or replacements made to each truck. Eliminate many surprises on the job site.  Know which vehicles are ready to roll and which ones need repairs/replacements.

Check and Replace –

It is a must in any vehicle with an engine that elements like the air and oil filters, the oil itself, lubricants, and engine boost, etc. are checked often- as per manufacturer’s instructions- and topped off, drained, or replaced as needed. Save time on these tasks by ensuring your onsite garage is always stocked with the needed products. Order in bulk from AMSOIL dealer Buy Great Oil. And while visiting Buy Great Oil, be sure to check out their hydraulic oil which is specially designed for large commercial equipment.

Clean Daily –

Ensure your drivers know to check all remote controls are clean at the end of the shift.  Likewise, ensure the back of the truck and chute are hosed down before unloading, the hydraulic system works correctly, and any mechanical issues/concerns are reported.

Use a Concrete Dissolver –

At least once a quarter, use a concrete dissolver to clean the truck and any parts displaying dried concrete.

Clean the chute –

A clean chute prevents old concrete from mixing in with a new mix, causing shoddy results.

Wash Out System –

A good way to be sure that your mixer trucks are always clean and up to standard is to install a washout system. These systems typically include cutoffs at the ground level so the hopper, collector, and drum nozzles can clean the drip ring, chute, and drum.

Inspect the Brakes –

There is a lot of power riding on the wheels of a concrete mixer, so being able to stop quickly is a must. Take time to inspect the drums, rotors, and brakes for sticking, corrosion, and other wear and tear. Be sure that when having any brake work done, it is an experience mixer mechanic so you can be secure in a job well done.

You don’t want your concrete company stuck on the sidelines because your mixers are in the shop when a job is waiting. Be diligent in your maintenance so you can work whenever and wherever needed!