Electric dumpers have become an increasingly popular choice in the construction and public works sectors, thanks to their environmental benefits, low noise levels, and energy efficiency. However, like any specialized machinery, they require specific and rigorous maintenance to ensure performance, safety, and long service life.
In this practical guide, we explain everything you need to know to keep your electric dumpers in top condition, including daily routines, periodic inspections, and key recommendations.
Maintaining electric dumpers is not just a routine task: it’s a strategic investment that directly impacts operational efficiency, safety, and overall profitability. Ignoring or postponing basic care can lead to serious breakdowns, work stoppages, and even fines if the machinery fails to meet current regulations.
Here’s why investing time and resources in proper maintenance is essential:
An electric dumper is a high-value machine. Beyond the initial investment, there are costs related to the battery, electrical system, and specific components.
Premature deterioration due to lack of maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or even early replacement. Proper care ensures your investment is amortized over the expected service life.
💡 Example: Replacing a poorly maintained battery can exceed 30% of the dumper’s total value. Periodic checks can avoid this unnecessary expense.
Maintaining brakes, the electrical system, chassis structure, and controls in good condition is key to operator and worksite safety.
A mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic failure can stop operations and cause serious accidents, falling loads, or loss of control. Operating faulty equipment also carries legal liabilities and potential fines.
💡 Example: A brake system failure due to missed inspection can cause crashes or tipping, especially on slopes.
Well-maintained equipment minimizes unplanned downtime, reduces breakdown stops, and optimizes loading/unloading cycles.
When an electric dumper operates at full capacity, workflow stays smooth, deadlines are met, and team efficiency improves significantly.
💡 Example: A dumper that needs to stop every hour due to overheating or power loss slows down the entire project and raises labor and replacement equipment costs.
Preventive maintenance can double the service life of an electric dumper compared to a neglected one. It includes:
Better preservation of the electric motor.
Less battery wear.
Reduced structural fatigue.
A well-maintained dumper can perform optimally for years, while a neglected one may fail in half the expected time.
💡 Example: Proper battery management (correct charging cycles, cleaning, approved chargers) can increase its lifespan by over 40%.
| Check | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Battery charge level | Ensure there’s enough charge for the day and recharge if needed. |
| Visual condition of wiring | Check for loose or damaged cables. |
| Tires and tracks | Inspect pressure, wear, and possible cuts. |
| Brakes | Ensure they work correctly and don’t make unusual noises. |
| Lights and signals | Check all lights and alarms. |
| Surface cleaning | Remove dirt, mud, or debris from chassis and cargo area. |
Weekly maintenance helps detect small issues before they escalate. These checks prevent downtime and keep your dumper in top shape.
✅ Check distilled water levels in lead-acid batteries (if applicable)
Low water levels can cause overheating and irreversible cell damage.
🔧 Action: Check and refill weekly following manufacturer’s instructions.
✅ Inspect connectors and charging ports
Worn or loose connectors can cause power loss or charging failures.
🔧 Action: Ensure they are clean, tight, and rust-free.
✅ Check for play in wheels, axles, and chassis
Frequent use may cause looseness, which can lead to major damage.
🔧 Action: Tighten bolts and joints as needed.
✅ Inspect the hydraulic system (for dumpers with tipping systems)
Oil leaks or pressure loss may affect tipping operations.
🔧 Action: Check hoses, cylinders, and hydraulic oil levels.
✅ Grease moving parts as per the manufacturer’s manual
Proper lubrication prevents premature wear.
🔧 Action: Apply correct grease to recommended areas.
Monthly checks help identify internal issues and ensure the entire system works efficiently.
✅ Thorough inspection of the electrical system
Check wiring, connections, motor, and controller for wear or overheating.
🔧 Action: Look for wear, corrosion, and loose connections.
✅ Check belts and tension (if applicable)
Worn or loose belts can cause power loss or slippage.
🔧 Action: Adjust belt tension according to specifications.
✅ Full brake system inspection
Safe braking is essential.
🔧 Action: Check pads, discs, cables, or hydraulic components.
✅ Run diagnostic software (if available)
Some modern dumpers allow self-diagnostics.
🔧 Action: Run the diagnostic and log results for tracking.
✅ Clean the battery compartment thoroughly
Dust or moisture can lower battery efficiency and cause corrosion.
🔧 Action: Clean carefully, protect connections, and ensure proper ventilation.
Batteries are the most critical and expensive component. Misuse can drastically shorten their lifespan.
🗒️ Key Tips:
Always use approved, compatible chargers.
Don’t discharge below 20% to avoid stress on cells.
Protect from extreme temperatures—heat can cause swelling, cold can reduce capacity.
Clean terminals regularly to avoid sulfation.
Perform full charges when possible—frequent partial charges may reduce effective capacity.
💡 Expert tip: If storing the dumper for weeks or months, leave the battery charged between 40–60% and store in a cool, dry place to reduce natural self-discharge.
The tipping system is under frequent dynamic load and requires attention.
🛠️ Recommendations:
Check for hydraulic leaks and keep oil levels within limits.
Lubricate pivot points per the manual.
Ensure safety sensors and limit switches are working correctly.
Never exceed the recommended load limit—overloading strains the hydraulic system and increases breakdown risks.
Stop operation and call for inspection if you notice:
🔧 Unusual brake or load noises.
🔋 Rapid battery discharge.
⚡ Burning smell or overheating near motor or battery.
🛑 Unresponsive controls or power loss.
💧 Hydraulic fluid leaks or advanced corrosion.
Always use original parts and components.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
Train staff in proper use and responsible driving.
Keep a detailed maintenance log for tracking checks, issues, and replacements.
At Makitrucks we offer:
✔️ Technical support specialized in electric dumpers.
✔️ Original spare parts and personalized advice.
✔️ Tailored preventive maintenance contracts.
👉 Contact us now and keep your dumper performing at its best.