SINOTRUK HOWO 371 Dump Truck – Full Introduction & Operation Manual

Here is the complete English introduction & operation guide for SINOTRUK HOWO 371 Dump Truck (standard 6×4, 371HP, widely used for export & construction).

Basic Specifications

Model	HOWO 371HP 6×4 Dump Truck (10 wheels)
Engine	WD615.47, 371HP, Euro II, strong low-speed torque
Transmission	HW19710 (10 forward gears + 2 reverse gears)
Drive	6×4 (rear dual axles driven)
Cargo Body	Common size 5.6–6.8m × 2.3m × 1.5m; floor 8mm, side 6mm high-strength steel
Volume	16–20 cubic meters
Axles	Front axle 9.5T; rear dual axles 16T each
Gross Vehicle Weight	about 25–31 tons
Application	mine, earthwork, sand & gravel, construction waste transport

Pre-Operation Inspection

1.Exterior Check

Inspect tires, tire pressure, wheel bolts, suspension, frame, and cargo body for cracks or deformation.
Check hydraulic cylinder, hoses, joints for oil leakage.
Confirm tailgate lock is intact and functional.

2.Fluid Check

Engine oil, coolant, fuel, hydraulic oil, brake fluid must reach normal level.

3.Brake & Air System

Build air pressure to 8–10 bar; no air leakage.
Test service brake and parking brake.

4.Cab & Electric

Adjust seat, rearview mirrors, seat belt.
Check lights, turn signals, wipers, instrument panel.
Ensure hydraulic control lever is in NEUTRAL.

Engine Start & Warm-up

1. Push clutch fully; gear in neutral; parking brake ON.
2. Turn ignition key to start; release once engine runs (max 10 seconds).
3. Idle 3–5 minutes at 800–1000 RPM for warm-up.
4. Check gauges: oil pressure, air pressure, water temperature must be normal.
5. Do not drive if warning lights stay on.

Driving Operation

1.Gear Shifting

Fully depress clutch when shifting.
Shift at 1200–1500 RPM for fuel saving and protection.
Use low gears under heavy load or climbing.

2.Braking

Use exhaust brake (WEVB) on long downhill to avoid brake overheating.
Keep safe distance; loaded truck needs longer braking distance.

3.Driving Safety

No sharp turns or sudden lane changes (high center of gravity).
Comply with speed limits and load regulations.

Dumping Operation (Lifting & Lowering) – Critical Safety

Before Dumping

Park on firm, level ground; no slope or soft soil.
Parking brake ON; gear in neutral; wheel chocks recommended.
Keep people away from cargo body; no overhead wires.
Unlock tailgate.

Lifting the Body
1. Depress clutch → turn on PTO switch → engage 1st or 2nd gear → release clutch slowly.
2. Move hydraulic control lever to UP position.
3. Keep engine at 1000–1500 RPM; do not rev high.
4. After unloading, set lever to NEUTRAL.

Lowering the Body
1. Move lever to DOWN; body lowers slowly by self-weight.
2. Wait until body fully sits on chassis; return lever to NEUTRAL.
3. Depress clutch → turn off PTO → shift to neutral.
4. Lock tailgate before driving.

Strict Warnings

NEVER drive with body raised.
DO NOT stand under raised body.
Do not lift if material is stuck; stop and clean manually.

After Operation

1. Park on flat ground; parking brake ON; engine off.
2. Clean cargo body, lights, and tailgate.
3. Check leakage, loose parts, hydraulic system.
4. If the HOWO 371 Dump Truck is heavily loaded, allow the engine to idle for 1–2 minutes before shutting it down.
5. Record abnormal noise or faults for maintenance.