WHY HYDRAULIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE IS CRUCIAL

Unlike other mechanical systems, hydraulics rely on a pressurized fluid. This fluid does more than just transmit energy: it lubricates internal components, protects against corrosion, reduces wear on parts, and dissipates heat.

Over time, hydraulic oil degrades. Additives wear out, viscosity changes, and contaminants can accumulate. The result is accelerated wear of components such as pumps, valves, and cylinders.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HYDRAULIC OIL

Not all hydraulic oils are equal. The choice of the right type depends mainly on operating conditions and climate. According to McNeilus specifications, three grades are recommended:

• ISO 32 OIL: Used in cold climates. It facilitates fluid circulation when temperatures are low. (SUS=40–45 @ 210°F)

In Quebec, where temperature variations are significant, ISO 32 oil is often the best compromise to ensure good performance year-round. The McNeilus technical specifications for this oil are: viscosity at 40°C of 31.7 cSt, viscosity at 100°C of 5.3 cSt, recommended viscosity index of 98, and pour point of -38°F (-39°C).

ESSENTIAL ADDITIVES

A high-quality hydraulic oil should contain the following additives:

• Anti-wear
• Anti-corrosion
• Anti-oxidation
• Anti-foaming

These additives help maintain the stability of the hydraulic system and reduce the risk of failure.

SERVICE INTERVALS: A CRITICAL DISCIPLINE

Hydraulic oil does not last forever. Even if it appears clean, its chemical properties deteriorate over time. It is recommended to follow a precise schedule based on:

• Number of operating hours
• Operating conditions
• Manufacturer recommendations

McNeilus recommends replacing hydraulic oil and filters after 100 hours of use on a new vehicle and then every 1250 hours (without a clean fill system).

Several factors accelerate oil degradation: system overheating, contamination by water, dust or debris, and oxidation. Delayed replacement significantly increases wear on hydraulic components and the risk of failure.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRAULIC FILTERS

Filters play a key role in protecting the system by capturing particles that could damage internal components.

Four elements must be monitored:

• Return filter
• Reservoir suction strainer
• Reservoir breather
• High-pressure filters (1 or 2, not present on all vehicles)

A visual indicator often mounted on the return filter housing of the reservoir usually allows you to check the filter condition:

• Red: immediate replacement required

Ignoring these indicators can result in contaminated oil circulating through the system and accelerated wear.

PREVENTING CONTAMINATION: THE GOLDEN RULE

Contamination is the main cause of hydraulic system failure. A single particle can damage critical components. Cleanliness is of utmost importance during any intervention on the hydraulic circuit. Contamination can come from:

• Dust and particles
• Water or moisture
• Metal residues
• Poor practices during filling

To limit these risks, certain best practices must be integrated into operations:

USE A CLEAN FILLING SYSTEM

Quick-connect filling systems allow oil to be filtered before entering the tank.

MAINTAIN A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT

Cleaning surfaces around access points before any intervention significantly reduces the introduction of contaminants.

AVOID UNNECESSARY OPENINGS

Every system opening increases the risk of contamination. It is therefore important to limit handling.

REGULARLY CHECK SEALS

Worn seals can allow air or water to enter the system.

MONITORING OIL LEVELS, TOPPING OFF, AND DETECTING ISSUES

An improper oil level can lead to performance loss and serious damage.

OIL LEVEL CHECK PROCEDURE

To obtain a reliable reading, the system must be in a precise rest position before any check. Certain conditions must be met:

• Oil must reach normal operating temperature
• Pack and ejection in HOME position or fully retracted
• Tailgate in DOWN position
• Top door in OPEN position
• Arms and forks fully raised (HOME position)

Once these conditions are met, the level can be checked using the sight gauges located on each side of the reservoir.

OIL TOP-OFF PROCEDURE

Before adding hydraulic oil, the following steps must be followed:

• Place all hydraulic functions in neutral/rest position
• Ensure cylinders are fully retracted
• Check the oil level in the reservoir

During filling:

• Use oil that meets specifications
• Filter the oil before it enters the system
• Avoid any external contamination
• Level the oil in the reservoir according to recommendations

A simple but rigorous procedure helps preserve fluid quality and ensures stable operation.

DETECTING SIGNS OF WEAR

A hydraulic system losing performance generally shows visible signs:

• Reduced lifting power
• Irregular movements
• Unusual noises
• System overheating
• Slowing of functions

These indicators must be taken seriously. A quick intervention often helps avoid more significant repairs.

ADOPTING DAILY BEST PRACTICES

Maintenance is not limited to scheduled intervals. Daily habits make all the difference. Structured hydraulic system maintenance allows you to:

• Ensure operational continuity
• Reduce repair costs
• Increase equipment lifespan
• Improve operational safety

At L’Arsenal, we support organizations in implementing maintenance practices tailored to their operational realities.

CONCLUSION

A well-maintained hydraulic system means a more efficient, reliable, and durable truck. By selecting the right oil, strictly following service intervals, and applying rigorous cleanliness practices, you significantly reduce the risk of failure.

Investing in maintenance is investing in long-term performance.

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A proven expertise in refuse collection vehicles

For more than 50 years, McNeilus has developed refuse collection solutions built to withstand demanding duty cycles. The company is part of Oshkosh Corporation, a global industrial group known for its rigorous engineering standards and manufacturing quality.

This industrial foundation allows McNeilus to deliver equipment designed for durability, predictable performance, and long service life.

Refuse trucks designed to reduce downtime

Every McNeilus refuse collection truck is engineered with a focus on structural strength and service accessibility. The goal is to simplify maintenance activities while minimizing unplanned downtime.

• Reinforced bodies and structural components
• Reliable hydraulic systems engineered for consistency
• Simplified access to mechanical and hydraulic components
• Designs focused on long-term fleet durability

These characteristics support improved fleet availability and more predictable maintenance planning.

VIEW MCNEILUS REFUSE AND RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

A complete range of refuse collection trucks

McNeilus offers multiple refuse collection vehicle configurations to meet a wide variety of operational requirements:

• Rear loader refuse trucks
• Automated and semi-automated side loader trucks
• Front loader refuse trucks
• Split body trucks for multi-stream collection

This product diversity allows fleet managers to select the right configuration based on route density, material volume, and collection strategy.

Operator safety and ergonomic design

Operator safety plays a central role in the design of McNeilus refuse trucks. Improved visibility, intuitive controls, and reduced manual handling contribute to safer daily operations.

These design considerations also support workforce retention and consistent operational efficiency.

L’Arsenal, your McNeilus dealer in Quebec and the Maritimes

As an authorized McNeilus dealer, L’Arsenal supports organizations throughout Quebec and the Maritimes with a complete service approach:

• Operational needs assessment
• Truck configuration and selection
• After-sales service, maintenance, and parts
• Long-term fleet support

This approach ensures that organizations receive equipment aligned with their operational objectives and long-term planning.

A long-term investment in fleet performance

Choosing a McNeilus refuse collection truck represents an investment in durable equipment supported by a local service network. Combined with L’Arsenal’s expertise, McNeilus trucks help organizations maintain reliable, efficient refuse collection operations year after year.

To learn more about the McNeilus solutions offered by L’Arsenal, contact our team.

Olivier Fortin, Sales Director

[email protected] | 819 471-2611

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MAINTENANCE THAT SAVES TIME

McNeilus designs its vehicles with access and serviceability in mind. Grouped grease points, accessible hydraulic modules, and protected electrical components make routine checks simpler and faster. Every maintenance feature is designed to cut down on service time and keep your fleet rolling.

Combined with L’Arsenal’s local support across Québec and the Maritimes, that means shorter downtimes and more vehicles in operation.

ADAPTED FOR MODERN CITY ROUTES

Urban growth comes with tighter lanes, narrower streets, and stricter collection windows. McNeilus side loaders are built with urban agility in mind. Their maneuverability reduces route disruption, and their speed limits time spent in traffic zones.

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MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY WITHOUT MULTIPLYING RESOURCES

Thanks to its dual-compartment configuration, this truck eliminates the need for two separate collection runs. Whether it’s refuse and recycling or any other combination, your fleet travels less and collects more. This translates to reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance, and a simplified workflow. Productivity increases without the need for additional vehicles.

SMART DESIGN THAT FITS YOUR DAILY CHALLENGES

The McNeilus Split Body rear loader is designed to meet the needs of municipalities, private contractors, and co-op collection teams. It features user-friendly controls, a strong hydraulic system, and easily accessible components for streamlined service. The rear-loading setup is ideal for dense urban areas, tight alleys, and neighborhoods where maneuverability is essential.

LESS WEAR, LONGER FLEET LIFE

Collecting more with fewer trips also means your trucks endure less wear. Brake systems, tires, and engines benefit from reduced usage. The compacting system preserves the structure of each compartment, avoiding cross-contamination and reducing mechanical stress. This helps extend the service life of your investment.

BETTER VISIBILITY, SAFER COLLECTION

This model is equipped with enhanced lighting, rear cameras, and a clear loading area to support operator awareness. Safety isn’t an add-on—it’s built in. Whether collecting early in the morning, late at night, or in high-traffic zones, your crew can work confidently and efficiently.

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE OPERATIONS

Fewer kilometers traveled also means fewer emissions. With only one route needed to handle two refuse streams, this truck helps reduce your environmental footprint. For cities and contractors aiming to improve sustainability while maintaining high output, it’s a reliable and measurable solution.

DESIGNED FOR EASY MAINTENANCE

Maintenance time should be short and predictable. This truck is built with service in mind: critical components are easy to reach, and replacement parts are available directly from L’Arsenal. When service is needed, our technicians can get you back on the road quickly and reliably.

WHY CHOOSE THE MCNEILUS SPLIT BODY REAR LOADER?

• Two collections in one route=lower costs and more efficiency
• Reduced wear and tear across your fleet
• Improved working conditions for your crew
• Lower environmental impact
• Built strong, easy to maintain
• Increased collection capacity without increased complexity

At L’Arsenal, we offer tools that work for your team, not against it. The McNeilus Split Body rear loader brings real benefits to your day-to-day operations. No complicated upgrades. Just more work done in less time.

Ready to double your efficiency without doubling your effort? Contact us today to learn more.

Split Body Rear Loader – More Information

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Traditionally, a truck’s hydraulics run off the diesel engine. While this setup is durable, it also means constant fuel use, more noise, and engine wear. The ePTO (Electric Power Take-Off) replaces this process by using electric energy to power the hydraulics during loading.

This shift brings tangible benefits: less fuel, lower emissions, and reduced mechanical stress on the vehicle.

LESS NOISE, FEWER EMISSIONS: A BETTER WORK ENVIRONMENT

One of the most noticeable benefits of ePTO is how quiet it is. For operators working early shifts or in residential zones, this means a much more comfortable and respectful workday. It also minimizes public disturbance.

Environmentally, the difference is also clear: ePTO cuts down on diesel use during loading, helping fleets reduce emissions and move toward greener operations.

SIMPLER MAINTENANCE, LOWER COSTS

Fewer moving parts mean fewer breakdowns. ePTO reduces engine wear and extends service intervals — a clear win for fleet managers looking to control maintenance costs and boost uptime.

OPERATOR-FRIENDLY FUNCTIONALITY

From an operator’s standpoint, ePTO is easy to use and keeps operations smooth. Less vibration, less noise, and consistent cycle performance all contribute to more productive shifts.

A REAL STEP TOWARD RESPONSIBLE FLEETS

Integrating ePTO-equipped trucks into your fleet is a smart move for both public and private organizations looking to act sustainably. It’s a real transition — with real benefits — that doesn’t compromise performance or reliability.

L’ARSENAL STANDS WITH INNOVATION

As a McNeilus partner, L’Arsenal proudly promotes practical innovations like ePTO. They bring measurable benefits that make a daily difference for those who keep our cities clean and efficient.

Would you like to find out more about ePTO and how this technology can be integrated into your vehicle fleet?

Contact Us

855 560-9765 / [email protected]
Innovation ePTO from McNeilus

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A DESIGN YOU CAN COUNT ON

Built on the Freightliner M2 chassis, this model blends agility, comfort, and rugged reliability. It weaves easily through tight urban environments and back roads, while still packing the muscle to get the job done right.

Available in 17, 20, 25, and 28 cubic yard configurations, the M2 rear loader adapts to your needs. Whether you’re working residential or commercial routes, you can choose the right body size to suit your hauling requirements.

Its rear compaction system helps make the most of every loading cycle. That added capacity means fewer trips to the transfer station, giving your operation a boost in efficiency and easing the strain on both crews and equipment.

SIMPLIFIED MAINTENANCE

The M2 is built with simplicity in mind: fewer moving parts, quick access to key components, and compatibility with the McNeilus Street Smart Parts & Service network. That means less time in the shop, and more time on the road.

The M2 rear loader can be equipped with automated or semi-automated hydraulic lifters, depending on your crew setup and collection frequency. This kind of flexibility helps keep the pace steady, while looking out for the physical demands on your operators.

VISIBILITY, ERGONOMICS & SAFETY

The Freightliner cab gives operators excellent visibility, helping to prevent mishaps in busy traffic or pedestrian-heavy zones. Intuitive, ergonomic controls are designed to reduce fatigue over long shifts.

This vehicle is built to meet today’s collection realities—with no unnecessary tech overload, just tried-and-true reliability.

The M2 rear loader, with its well-thought-out simplicity and steady, strong performance, makes it a right some good asset for refuse collection operations, wherever you’re running your route.

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The Volterra ZFL was built with a clear purpose: to enhance the experience of refuse and recycling collection professionals. This fully electric front loader doesn’t just bring advanced technology—it also prioritizes operator comfort and safety.

An Ergonomic Driver’s Seat

With 38% more cab space, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, and a temperature-controlled seat, the Volterra ZFL provides a comfortable ride for operators of all sizes. These features help reduce fatigue and improve focus throughout the workday.

Easier Access

Its step is two inches lower than the industry standard, making it easier for drivers to get in and out of the vehicle—an undeniable advantage when making frequent stops.

Enhanced Visibility and Driver Assistance

The vehicle’s design maximizes visibility, improving maneuvering precision and safety. It also comes equipped with an advanced driver-assist system, including a 360° camera, blind-spot warning, autonomous emergency braking, and rear traffic detection.

ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE THAT DRIVES PRODUCTIVITY

The Volterra ZFL is a high-performing vehicle designed to maximize collection efficiency.

A Proven Structure

Built on the robust McNeilus® Meridian® platform, it delivers the recognized reliability and durability of this model, with a lifting capacity of 8,500 pounds.

Superior Maneuverability

With its optimized turning radius, operators can easily navigate tight spaces, alleys, and sharp turns. This translates to greater efficiency on the route and quicker task execution.

Smart Maintenance

The Volterra ZFL features a real-time monitoring system, including tire pressure checks, automated daily inspections, and cloud-based telematics. These technologies facilitate preventive maintenance and minimize service interruptions.

A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR A CLEANER FUTURE

Supporting companies’ environmental goals, the Volterra ZFL represents a step forward in making refuse and recycling collection more eco-friendly.

Zero Emissions, Certified Compliance

Certified by the CARB and the EPA, this fully electric front loader helps reduce CO₂ emissions while meeting sustainable transport regulations.

Smart Energy Management

Its advanced battery management system intelligently adjusts energy consumption based on critical needs, extending battery life and optimizing range.

Extended Range

With a battery capacity approximately 25% higher than the industry average, the Volterra ZFL can handle a full day of collection on a single charge.

TECHNOLOGY THAT’S SHAPING THE INDUSTRY

The McNeilus® Volterra ZFL introduces a fresh approach to refuse and recycling collection, combining electric performance, driving comfort, and sustainability. It enables businesses to maximize productivity while reducing their environmental footprint.

Investing in a vehicle like the Volterra ZFL means choosing a high-performing, responsible solution that meets today’s industry demands while preparing for the future.

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This truck is designed to ensure outstanding performance. Its powerful compaction and wear-resistant materials, such as AR200 and AR450 steel in high-stress areas, deliver remarkable longevity. The goal? To help you maximize efficiency while minimizing maintenance costs.

Built to Last

The Extra Compaction Rear Loader is a high-performing tool tailored for commercial and industrial applications. Its design incorporates an impressive range of features:

• Fast compacting cycle: Advanced hydraulic controls and the “pack-on-the-go” system allow operators to save time by keeping the hopper clear, even on routes with frequent stops.
• Reinforced cylinders: Options like McNeilus® Excalibre cylinders reduce the risk of hydraulic contamination, improving overall equipment reliability.
• Customizable options: Features like a wind-up winch or a container lift bar enable you to tailor the truck to your specific needs.

For even more demanding routes, the XXC option offers a reinforced floor, extended rear-door sealing, and a strengthened loading edge for superior durability.

An Investment for Businesses

One of the major advantages of the Extra Compaction Rear Loader is its excellent resale value, often surpassing comparable trucks. Its simplified maintenance, aided by an advanced hydraulic system and durable materials, makes it a cost-effective choice for businesses in the long term.

This truck is also available with compressed natural gas (CNG) systems, offering an eco-friendly and economical option for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Dimensions That Matter

The Extra Compaction Rear Loader comes in three capacities: 75, 84, and 96 cubic feet to meet a variety of operational needs. With a raised rear-door height of 170 inches, it provides optimal access while maintaining a compact width for easy maneuverability.

Built with Care

Every truck is crafted with precision and undergoes rigorous quality control. High-performance epoxy paint options ensure a durable finish, while the integrated control panel simplifies adjustments and enhances safety.

Whether for intensive commercial use, demolition projects, or demanding routes, the Extra Compaction Rear Loader is the perfect ally for refuse collection needs. With its durable materials, impressive compacting capacity, and customizable options, it’s a top choice for businesses looking to optimize productivity while keeping costs down.

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UNMATCHED COMPACTION CAPACITY

With the ability to compact up to 1,000 pounds of refuse per cubic yard, this rear loader is ready to tackle the most demanding collection challenges. Thanks to its increased capacity, your teams can extend their routes without constant interruptions, reducing stops and maximizing efficiency.

FAST CYCLES TO SAVE TIME

The Heavy Duty Rear Loader is equipped with a rapid compression cycle that keeps the hopper clear at all times. This allows for optimized routes in densely populated areas while limiting wasted time.

RUGGED DESIGN FOR LONG-LASTING PERFORMANCE

Built with durable materials such as AR200 and AR450 steel, the Heavy Duty Rear Loader stands up to wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your equipment. This means fewer costly repairs and reliability that inspires confidence.

VERSATILITY FOR ALL APPLICATIONS

Whether for residential or commercial collection, this rear loader adapts to your needs with a hopper capacity of 3 to 3.5 cubic yards and options such as winches or lifting bars. This versatility meets the diverse demands of the market.

A POSITIVE IMPACT ON YOUR PRODUCTIVITY

By focusing on optimized cycles, high capacity, and durable construction, the Heavy Duty Rear Loader increases the productivity of your operations while reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

The Heavy Duty Rear Loader offers a reliable and efficient solution to improve refuse collection. With its exceptional compaction capacity, rapid execution, and proven durability, it’s a must-have for managers looking to streamline their collection operations.

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