Safe through the winter: essential maintenance for your tank trailer
A solid maintenance plan not only makes your slurry tank trailer safer but also reduces downtime and unexpected repairs. Proper maintenance isn’t optional — it’s a critical part of professional fleet management. We’re here to set you on the right path.
Safety first
Avoid risks
Safety is our top priority in the design of our D-TEC tank trailers, but not every user is aware that insufficient maintenance can pose serious risks when working in or on the tank. For example, the odorless and extremely dangerous gas H₂S can accumulate inside the tank. Unfortunately, serious incidents involving this gas still occur every year.
Take responsibility: carefully read the safety instructions and strictly follow these guidelines — your safety and that of your employees come first. Ensure that the driver is fully familiar with the vehicle and the operating instructions. Especially during frost periods, extra alertness and thorough checks are essential.
Quality under control
Maintenance and inspection points
Regular maintenance reduces downtime and extends the lifespan of your trailer. Key points to keep in mind:
- Check U-bolts, shock absorber bolts, and kingpin bolts regularly.
- For new trailers: perform the first check after 500 km or 2 days of operation.
- Refer to the manual for exact torque specifications and procedures.
Inspection
Quick check before every trip
Perform a short inspection before each trip:
- Check that the vacuum and pressure relief valves are working properly.
- Check hydraulic valves, hoses, lines, and fittings for leaks and wear.
- Visually inspect air bellows for leaks.
- Test the air cylinders via the valve block: when the vent is closed, the cylinders must return to the neutral position.
Check the manual
Please consult the manual for full instructions and operating procedures.
You can easily find the manual in our D-TEC Parts webshop. In addition to specific D-TEC parts, our webshop also offers documents, stickers and brochures.
Visit the Parts website via the link below. If you have any questions, please email us at parts@d-tec.eu or call +31 (0)488 740 030 (during office hours).
Cold weather precautions (frost)
Expecting frost? Pay extra attention to the following:
- Prevent frozen vacuum valves through proper lubrication and driver instructions.
- Actively monitor the air valve during unloading to avoid damage to the tanks.
Special attention: certified weighing & sampling device
- Certified weighing: For trailers with certified weighing systems, always manually lower the first axle using the red button before driving. This prevents cracking above the second axle.
- Sampling Device (Netherlands): Maintain the sampling cylinder with care to ensure the sample bag is filled correctly.
More information?
Do you have questions about maintenance, or are you looking for manuals or brochures? Our dealers and aftersales specialists will be happy to assist you.
