I have used three Longgong LG850 wheel loaders over the years, bought in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Below is a summary of my experience with these machines, covering their performance, issues, and maintenance.
General Overview
Machine 1 has had an issue with cracks forming at the connection between the boom and the crossbeam. Machines 2 and 3 have been modified to extend the connection, and no further issues have arisen.
Engine
All three machines are equipped with Weichai engines:
The hydraulic system is a major concern across all three machines. The hydraulic pipe layout is complicated, with many parts interfering with each other, leading to frequent leaks.
Overall, the Longgong LG850 wheel loader is a reliable machine, but it comes with some common issues, particularly with the hydraulic system and engine seals. The design and construction have room for improvement, especially in terms of simplifying the hydraulic layout to prevent leaks. Despite these challenges, the machines perform adequately and have shown durability in tough working conditions.
For Longgong, while the product quality is improving, there is still room to address issues in engine durability, hydraulic design, and axles to make these machines more reliable. With these improvements, Longgong can continue to improve its standing in the market.
General Overview
- Machine 1 (purchased in 2007): Currently has over 7000 hours of operation.
- Machine 2 (purchased in 2008): Has 4000 hours of use.
- Machine 3 (purchased in 2009): Has just over 1000 hours.
Machine 1 has had an issue with cracks forming at the connection between the boom and the crossbeam. Machines 2 and 3 have been modified to extend the connection, and no further issues have arisen.
Engine
All three machines are equipped with Weichai engines:
- Machines 1 and 2 use the WD615 engine.
- Machine 3 is fitted with the WD10, which complies with Euro III emissions standards. The WD10 has smaller bore and stroke dimensions, but maintains the same output of 162 kW, resulting in lower fuel consumption.
- Machine 1 has experienced several issues, including oil leaks around the cylinder head and corrosion at the water seals. The turbocharger is positioned very close to the cylinder head, making repairs difficult. I had to replace several water seals and the fuel injection pump, which was a cumbersome process. During cold starts, the machine requires extra throttle to avoid stalling, and it emits white smoke before stabilizing.
- Machine 2 has faced issues with water seal leaks and an electronic valve failure, which was converted to a manual valve. The starter motor also needed replacement at one point.
- Machine 3 had problems with its electronic valve and had to replace a turbocharger gasket.
- Machine 1's dual transmission system is still functioning well.
- Machine 2 required repairs after about 3000 hours of operation due to damage to the torque converter bearings. The bearings used were from ZWZ.
- Machine 3 felt slower to respond after shifting, especially when starting from a standstill.
- Machine 1 has required numerous repairs to its front axle. The latest repair may have left the axle casing bolts inadequately tightened, leading to a minor oil leak. The half-axle was once broken, and the brake system has had recurring oil leaks. The power booster pump has been replaced. The tires from Henan Fengshen lasted long but are now worn down, and I replaced them with refurbished tires.
- Machine 2 experienced repeated issues with the planetary gears in the front axle. The gears broke multiple times within days, necessitating removal of the tires for repair.
- Machine 3 has not had issues with the axles up to now.
The hydraulic system is a major concern across all three machines. The hydraulic pipe layout is complicated, with many parts interfering with each other, leading to frequent leaks.
- Machine 1 and 2 use Jinan Hydraulic Factory pumps, while Machine 3 uses Longgong’s own hydraulic pumps. The latter has been functioning well so far.
- Machine 1 had all four hydraulic cylinders wear out, and I had to replace them. The first replacement cylinders also wore out quickly. Machine 2 had the boom hydraulic seals replaced.
- Machine 1's hydraulic return line disconnected twice, draining all the hydraulic oil, which was a painful experience. Also, the steering system and valve block started leaking oil shortly after they were replaced.
- Machine 1 has an ongoing issue with the swing bucket’s top pin breaking frequently.
- The paint quality on the Longgong machines is quite good, and after cleaning, the old machines look nearly as good as new.
Overall, the Longgong LG850 wheel loader is a reliable machine, but it comes with some common issues, particularly with the hydraulic system and engine seals. The design and construction have room for improvement, especially in terms of simplifying the hydraulic layout to prevent leaks. Despite these challenges, the machines perform adequately and have shown durability in tough working conditions.
For Longgong, while the product quality is improving, there is still room to address issues in engine durability, hydraulic design, and axles to make these machines more reliable. With these improvements, Longgong can continue to improve its standing in the market.
