Semi-trucks are heavy-duty trucks that are used to haul heavy objects. They are also used to perform various functions besides their main objective. They are equipped with accessories to perform these functions. Wet line kits are crucial to power this equipment in these vehicles.
What is a Wet Kit on a Semi-Truck? Wet kits are devices installed on a semi-truck to activate the accessory equipment like cranes, lowboys, booms, and bulldozers. They use hydraulic pressure to force oil through hoses to power the auxiliary equipment.2 line wet kits have the same hose for the inlet and return hydraulic oil. While 3 line has a separate hose to return the fluid. The cost of these kits ranges from $2000 to$3500.
The truck drivers use semi-trailers to lift objects and dispose of big objects using cranes and dump trailers. These vehicles are also getting attention and popularity due to these side businesses. Some trucks have wet kits, while others have the option to install them. Some of them can perform multiple functions.
What is the function of a wet kit on semi-trucks?
Heavy-duty vehicles like semi-trucks are equipped with different accessories to perform their duties, like Cranes, bumpers, dump trailers, and booms. Dump trailers and cranes are used to dispose of large materials easily. All these auxiliary equipment require high power to carry heavy loads.
All these accessories require a means of connection with the truck and or the tank to get energy. Wet kits serve as a means to connect and power these accessories to do their job.
Vehicles with a power take-off use wet kits to provide engine power to all these pieces of equipment.
They are available in different sizes and arrangements depending upon their intended use. They are also known as wet line kits, and each is specific for different applications.
These kits are installed on the semi-trucks and are essential to operate all these implements. These kits can be installed in any heavy-duty vehicle depending upon the intended use.
How does the wet kit work in semi-trucks?
The wet kits contain many different components, and here is a list of all the basic parts of this tool.
- Hoses
- Filters
- Pumps
- Hydraulic Tanks
- Valves
The power take off in the semi-truck starts the activity of the wet kit pumps. First of all, the transmission turns the gears inside the power take off, which shifts the gears inside the pump.
It sends the hydraulic fluid through the hoses to the cylinders. The PTO can execute the function of lifting a load when the fluid reaches the cylinder. After completion of the task, fluid is discharged from the cylinder.
It passes through a filter and heat exchanger for a cooling effect. It is sent back to the reservoir or hydraulic tank to begin another cycle.
The hydraulic pump again sucks the fluid to send it back to the cylinder through hoses. The intended application of all types of wet kits depends upon the pressure produced by the hydraulic fluid.
For example, wet line kits for dump trailers can produce approximately 2500 to 3000 psi pressure. The devices for other applications like utility trailers and booms can produce even more pressure to execute the job.
The capability of the kit pump and hydraulic fluid to produce pressure and flowing capabilities are detrimental factors of all types of wet line kits.
What is the difference between 2-line and 3-line wet kits?
There are different arrangements of wet kits for the semi-trucks.2-line, and 3-line wet kits are two arrangements of these kits that are commonly used in tractor-trailers. Both of them differ from each other in many aspects. Here is a brief description of both of them.
2-line wet kit
In 2 line wet kit, the same hose serves as an inlet and return hose for the hydraulic fluid. This type of PTO wet kit is used for low-usage businesses. It has an airline, a suction hose, and a pressure hose. They can haul heavy loads and dump trailers but have other demerits.
The lifespan of the pump is shorter. They are prone to damage due to overheating. Their cycle time is slower than the 3-line wet kits. They also can have a long life span if not overworked.
3 Line wet kits
In this arrangement, the inlet hose and return line are different. This wet kit has a separate hose to return the hydraulic oil to the reservoir. In this arrangement, the possibility of damage to the pump due to overheating is negligible.
The cycle time is fast and short in this type of wet line. They are more reliable tools for utility trailer dump trucks and lowboys trailers.
Maintenance tips for a wet kit in a semi-truck
These devices are essential to execute all the auxiliary functions of a semi-truck. Maintenance and proper care can prolong the life of these tools in the vehicle. Here are a few tips to consider to maintain these devices in a heavy trailer.
Over prolonged use, these wet kits can suffer from damage and other issues. These faults can hinder them from doing their job effectively. Leaking hydraulic fluid from the hoses and valves is a sign of a fault in them.
Leaking fluid can be caused due to presence of tiny holes in the system. Fixing them immediately can save us from many troubles. Regularly check the tool for any leaks and fix it on time. Replace the hydraulic fluid regularly to maintain its functioning.
Loss in lift pressure is another problem associated with these tools. The presence of small holes can cause the air to release from the system.
Check the interior of the wet kits to check for the presence of corrosion and filth inside the component. Clean it regularly to prevent clogging of the hose and the valves.
The control response of the tool can also get damaged due to prolonged use. Replace all of its faulty components to save other parts of the vehicle from damage.
How much does it cost to put a wet kit on a semi-truck?
These are expensive tools, and their price can vary greatly. The price depends upon their intended application and their size. Its price also depends upon the manufacturer and the model of the device.
On average, the price of these tools ranges from $2000 to $3500.The price can go higher for a high-quality product. Its installation cost also depends upon the labor cost.
The installation cost of these kits on a semi-truck can vary from $600 to $1000.If you are taking the services of any reputed truck hop, the labor cost can range from $1500 to $2000.
For example, the wet kit for a dump trailer can cost up to $2035, and for a lowboy trailer, it costs about $2018.The cost of all the components, like the pumps and valves, is also different.
If you are replacing a faulty component, the price will be different. The cost of the wet kit hoses ranges from $150 to $250.The price of combo kits ranges from $3800 to $4500.
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