Essential Maintenance for Your Vacuum Truck

Daily Checklist

Your truck works hard every day. Keep it in fighting shape with this daily checklist:

• Check pump oil level. Especially for vane pumps, a full tank lasts about 15 hours.

• Verify diesel or pump flushing fluid levels in the reservoir.

• Confirm correct RPMs. Avoid over-revving to protect PTOs, pumps, and gearboxes.

• Check vacuum gauge. A reading of 20–24” Hg is normal; relief engages at the set point.

• Check pressure gauge. Relief should release at 5–7 PSI.

• Ensure all valves are closed to prevent vacuum loss.

• Perform diesel flush. Use vacuum mode for vane pumps and pressure mode for blowers.

• Conduct a walk-around inspection for leaks or structural issues with the system and chassis.

  
  

Weekly Checklist

Prevent wear and tear before it snowballs. Here’s what to do weekly:

• Clean the prefilter at least twice. Air dry it to prevent moisture and rust.

• Inspect the gearbox and PTO shaft. Check the breather, play, set screw, and safety wire.

• Grease the PTO shaft if greaseable fittings are present.

• Check couplings and flanges for wear, dry rot, and alignment. Add Loctite if needed.

• Inspect the gearbox mount bracket for defects.

• Grease fittings on manways, hoist hinges, and blower handles.

  
  

Monthly Checklist

A deeper dive is essential to protect your investment. Follow this monthly checklist:

• Inspect the primary shutoff. Ensure the ball, seal, and cage are debris-free and float properly.

• Inspect the secondary trap using the same application as the primary.

• Verify vacuum and pressure gauge readings are accurate.

• Remove and inspect all hoses for dry rot or liner separation.

• Clean sight glasses. Apply anti-seize to bolts and Vaseline to o-rings.

• Check the inlet standpipe and deflector shield. This is critical for tank protection.

• Inspect inlet, discharge, and secondary oil catch valves for leaks.

• Inspect manway cover wing nuts. Apply anti-seize when removed.

  
  

Quick Tips from Our Service Manager

If your pump takes too long to pull vacuum, check RPMs and closed valves. Here are some additional tips:

• The relief valve helps protect your system and cool down your pump. Don’t tape it off.

• A diesel flush helps free sticky vanes and keeps systems running smoothly.

• Any small problem can turn into downtime fast. Always investigate issues right away.

• Daily walkarounds matter more than you think.

  
  

Parts to Keep in Your Shop or Truck

To ensure your vacuum truck runs smoothly, keep these parts on hand:

• Vacuum oil (ISO-68/Hydraulic oil)

• Vac/Press Gauge

• Vac & Press Relief Valve

• Primary Gasket / Sight Eye Gasket

• Gearbox oil 80W/90

• Couplings

• Brass lever rebuild kit

• Thermal relief valve/brass fitting

• Pump rebuild kit (if possible)

  
  

Why This Matters

Following these checklists and tips will save you costly downtime, extend the life of your equipment, and protect your bottom line.

👉 Need parts, service, or help diagnosing an issue? Contact our Service Department today.

By maintaining your vacuum truck with these guidelines, you ensure it remains a reliable asset for your operations. Remember, a well-maintained truck not only performs better but also enhances your reputation and customer satisfaction. Let's keep those trucks running strong!