HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Specs, Price & Guide for African Mining

If you’re looking for a HOWO 8×4 dump truck for African mining or construction, you’ve come to the right place. The 8×4 configuration means four axles — two steering at the front, two driving at the back. There’s a reason these things are everywhere, from the copper mines of Zambia to the construction sites of Lagos and the gold pits of Ghana.

Specifically, the 8×4 configuration means four axles — two steering at the front, two driving at the back. That’s eight wheels in total, all pulling their weight. It gives you way more payload than a 6×4 setup (think 40–55 tons vs 25–35 tons), better stability on rough terrain, and longer tire life because the load spreads across more wheels.

I’ve personally handled dozens of HOWO 8×4 dump truck exports over the last six years — to Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, and beyond. So this guide is based on what I’ve actually seen working in the field, not just spec sheets copy-pasted from a factory brochure.

▶ Watch the video: HOWO 8×4 dump truck for African mining — 40-ton capacity, live walkaround, from $19,000 CIF Lagos. Watch on YouTube. For CIF prices to your port and current stock, WhatsApp +86 157 1768 7720.

HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck — Key Specs and Configurations

For starters, let’s look at the numbers that matter. Specifically, Sinotruk (the company that builds HOWO trucks) makes two main 8×4 dump variants — the HOWO 371 (the workhorse) and the HOWO 400 (higher power, newer cab).

HOWO 371 8×4 Dump Truck Specs

Model	HOWO ZZ3317N3867C / ZZ3317N4067C
Engine	WD615.47 / WD615.69 — 371 hp (273 kW) @ 2200 rpm
Torque	1,500 Nm @ 1,200–1,600 rpm
Transmission	HW19710 (10-speed manual) or HW21712 (12-speed)
Steering axle	HF9 (9-ton) front axle — two front axles
Drive axle	HC16 / HCD16 (16-ton) rear bogie — two rear axles
Wheelbase	3,800 + 1,350 mm or 4,000 + 1,350 mm
Dump body volume	20–28 m³ (standard), up to 34 m³ (extended)
Max payload	40–50 tons (rated), up to 55 tons in practice
Fuel tank	400 L standard
Tires	12.00R20 (all-position radials)

HOWO 400HP 8×4 Dump Truck Specs

Meanwhile, the 400HP version is the newer option. It uses Sinotruk’s own MC11 engine (a MAN-derived design), which is lighter, more fuel-efficient, and meets tighter emission standards. You’ll find more of these in 2021+ model years.

Engine	MC11.40-50 / MC11.44-50 — 400 hp (294 kW)
Torque	1,900 Nm @ 1,000–1,400 rpm
Transmission	HW21712 (12-speed)
Dump body	22–30 m³ standard, up to 36 m³ for light materials
Emission	China 5 / Euro 5 compliant
Max payload	45–55 tons

For official specifications straight from the manufacturer, Sinotruk publishes HOWO model details on its global website. It is worth cross-referencing what your exporter tells you against those factory specs.

HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Price Guide — Used (2026)

Prices vary depending on year, mileage, engine choice, and dump body condition. Here are realistic CIF price ranges for major African ports based on what I’ve actually sold and seen in the market.

Year	Model	FOB China	CIF Lagos	CIF Mombasa	CIF Dar / Beira
2016–2018	HOWO 371 8×4	$11,000–$15,000	$15,000–$20,000	$16,000–$21,000	$17,000–$22,000
2019–2021	HOWO 371 8×4	$14,000–$19,000	$19,000–$24,000	$20,000–$25,000	$21,000–$26,000
2021–2023	HOWO 400 8×4	$18,000–$25,000	$24,000–$32,000	$25,000–$33,000	$26,000–$34,000

For context, a few notes on these prices: First, they’re for trucks in good mechanical condition (grade A/B), not beat-up units. Second, shipping costs have been volatile in 2026 in 2026 — container shipping from China to West Africa has hovered around $3,000–$4,500 per unit, and RORO is roughly $2,500–$4,000 depending on port. For a full cost breakdown, read our used truck shipping costs guide.

6×4 vs 8×4 — Which HOWO Dump Truck Should You Buy?

This is the question I get most often from buyers. Should you spend more on an 8×4 or save money with a 6×4?

Choose the 6×4 HOWO 371 if:

• First, your loads are consistently under 30 tons
• Second, you work mainly on paved roads or well-maintained gravel roads
• Third, you’re on a tighter budget (6×4 saves about $3,000–$5,000 upfront)
• Fuel economy matters more than payload capacity
• You need a versatile truck that can do dump and tractor duties

Choose the 8×4 if:

• First, you’re hauling heavy loads (35–50 tons) every day
• Second, your worksite has rough roads or no roads at all
• Third, you’re in mining — overburden removal or ore hauling
• You want lower tire wear and better stability on slopes
• Payload per trip matters more than fuel cost (higher revenue per load)

Bottom line from my experience: If you’re buying for mining operations in DRC, Zambia, Ghana, or Tanzania — go with the 8×4 every time. The extra axle pays for itself in reduced downtime and higher daily tonnage. If you’re doing construction haulage in cities or short-haul on maintained roads, a 6×4 will serve you fine and save you money.

For a detailed comparison of HOWO vs Shacman dump trucks, see our HOWO vs Shacman guide. For more on the 6×4 variant, check the HOWO 371 dump truck specs.

Where the HOWO 8×4 Excels in Africa — Real Applications

I’ve seen these trucks working in some of the toughest conditions on the continent. Here’s where they shine.

Copper and cobalt mining — Zambia & DRC. In my experience, the Copperbelt region between Zambia and DRC is 8×4 territory. Trucks haul copper ore from pits to processing plants over rough haul roads. The 8×4’s extra axle keeps tires from overheating under max load, which is a real problem with 6×4s in these conditions.

Gold mining — Ghana & Tanzania. Similarly, the story repeats here. Overburden removal needs capacity and durability. I’ve sold HOWO 8×4 dumps to mines in Obuasi (Ghana) and Geita (Tanzania). Fleet operators there consistently report 2–3 years of solid service before major repairs.

Large construction projects — Nigeria & Kenya. Meanwhile, for dam construction, highway projects, and building foundations, When you’re moving thousands of tons of earth and gravel per day, the 8×4’s higher payload per trip makes a real dent in project timelines.

Coal haulage — South Africa & Mozambique. Moreover, South Africa’s coal mines have been using HOWO 8×4s for years. The trucks handle the loads well and the parts supply chain through Johannesburg is solid. Mozambique is a growing market too — Maputo port sees regular HOWO 8×4 shipments.

If you’re importing for a specific country, check our guides: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, DRC.

Engine and Maintenance — What to Expect

The HOWO 8×4 uses two main engine families. Which one you get matters for maintenance and parts in Africa.

WD615 engine (371 hp). For starters, this is the old workhorse. It’s the same block used in HOWO trucks for over a decade. The WD615 is tough, simple, and easy to fix. Parts are everywhere in Africa — Lagos, Nairobi, Accra, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam. Any decent truck mechanic knows this engine. The downside? It’s heavy (runs the whole engine on a cast-iron block), and fuel economy is average at best — about 35–40 L/100km under load for an 8×4.

MC11 engine (400 hp). Using MAN-derived technology, The MC11 is lighter (alloy construction), more powerful, and roughly 10–15% more fuel-efficient. It also meets China 5 / Euro 5 emissions, which matters if your country restricts older standard vehicles. However, parts availability is more limited, especially outside major cities. In Nigeria, you can find MC11 parts in Lagos and Onitsha, but not in smaller towns. Weigh this against the fuel savings before deciding.

For more on Chinese truck engine options, read our engine comparison guide.

[IMAGE PLACEHOLDER: Close-up of a HOWO WD615 or MC11 engine compartment showing the engine block. Alt text: HOWO 8×4 dump truck engine compartment — WD615 or MC11 engine inspection view]

Common Problems with HOWO 8×4 Dump Trucks

Let me be straight with you — no truck is perfect. Here are the issues I’ve seen come up with these trucks in Africa, and what to watch for.

• Rear suspension bushes. The balance beam suspension on the rear bogie wears out faster than expected — especially if the truck is run overloaded. Check for clunking noises over bumps. Budget for replacement every 12–18 months in heavy use. Bush kits cost about $150–$300.
• Dump body hinge pins. The pivot pins where the dump body attaches to the chassis wear and elongate over time. You’ll notice the body starting to sit crooked. Replacements are cheap ($80–$150) but labor-intensive. Inspect before buying.
• Clutch wear. For example, heavy loads and stop-start mining work destroy clutches. A HOWO 8×4 dump truck running max payload every day on rough terrain might need a new clutch every 8–12 months. Budget $400–$700 for the clutch kit plus labor.
• Hydraulic system leaks. The dump hoist hydraulics can develop leaks at hose connections, especially on older trucks (pre-2018). If the dump body creeps down slowly when raised, the control valve seal is worn. Simple fix.
• Electrical gremlins. This is a HOWO-wide issue, not just the 8×4. Lights, gauges, and sensors can be intermittent. It’s rarely a serious problem but it’s annoying. A good auto electrician can sort most issues quickly.

For a full inspection checklist before buying any used truck from China, see our inspection guide.

Spare Parts for HOWO 8×4 in Africa

Unsurprisingly, parts availability is one of the main reasons HOWO dominates the African used truck market. You can find HOWO 8×4 parts in almost every African country with a significant trucking industry.

• Nigeria: Lagos (Trade Fair Complex, Ladipo Market), Onitsha. Everything from engine blocks to cabin panels.
• Ghana: Accra (Kwame Nkrumah Circle area). Good availability for running gear and engine parts.
• Kenya: Nairobi (Industrial Area). Growing HOWO parts network.
• Tanzania: Dar es Salaam. Smaller but adequate for consumables.
• Zambia/DRC: Lusaka, Lubumbashi. HOWO parts are standard in mining towns.
• South Africa: Johannesburg, Durban. As the most comprehensive supply chain in Africa — parts ship to neighboring countries from here.

For a full guide on Chinese truck spares, see our Chinese truck spare parts guide.

Is the HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck Right for You? Decision Guide

Buy the HOWO 8×4 dump truck if:

• You need to move 35–50 tons per load regularly
• Your site conditions are rough (mud, rocks, steep grades)
• You’re in mining, quarrying, or heavy construction
• You want the industry standard for Chinese heavy dump trucks in Africa
• Parts availability matters more than fuel economy

Conversely, consider other options if:

• Your loads are under 30 tons — a 6×4 is cheaper to buy and run
• Fuel costs dominate your operating expenses — the MC11 engine helps but still isn’t as efficient as a tractor-trailer combo
• You need highway speed — 8×4 dumps are geared for torque not speed (max around 75–85 km/h loaded)
• Your roads have weight restrictions — some countries limit 8×4 axle loads on certain routes

For a broader view on used dump truck options, read our complete used dump truck guide for Africa.

How to Buy a HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck from China

In practice, the process isn’t complicated, but there are a few things specific to buying an 8×4 dump truck vs other types. Here’s what to expect.

1. First, tell us your requirements. Model year range (older 371 or newer 400?), budget, destination port, and what you’ll haul. Different dump body sizes make a real difference — a 20 m³ body for coal works differently than a 28 m³ body for gravel.
2. Next, we source and inspect. We check the engine compression, transmission condition, frame integrity, dump hoist operation, tire condition, and overall body wear. Every 8×4 we sell comes with a detailed inspection report.
3. After inspection, you get a live video walkaround. You see the exact truck running before you commit. Dump body up and down. Engine cold start. Test drive if needed.
4. Then payment and booking. We handle the paperwork, customs clearance for export, container loading or RORO booking. You just approve and track.
5. Finally, shipping. 20–30 days to most African ports. For a HOWO 8×4 dump truck, RORO is usually the most cost-effective — the truck drives on and off. However, some ports only accept containerized cargo — check our shipping guide for details.

For general importing steps, our complete import guide covers everything from finding a supplier to clearing customs at arrival.

FAQs About the HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck

What’s the real fuel consumption of a HOWO 8×4 dump truck under African conditions? Expect 35–45 L/100km loaded with the WD615 engine, and 30–38 L/100km with the MC11. Unloaded, expect 20–28 L/100km. These numbers vary a lot depending on terrain, load, and driving habits.

Next, can a HOWO 8×4 handle 50 tons of ore? Yes, within reason. The chassis is spec’d for it, but tire wear accelerates, suspension components wear faster, and you’ll chew through brakes. Many operators run 40–45 tons as a sweet spot for reliability.

What’s the difference between a HOWO 8×4 dump and a HOWO 8×4 tractor truck? The dump has a different rear chassis — heavier, shorter wheelbase, and built for tipping loads. A tractor truck (prime mover) has a fifth wheel coupling for trailers. They’re different frames. Don’t confuse them.

Finally, how long do HOWO 8×4 dump trucks last in African mining conditions? With proper maintenance, 5–8 years of active service. The WD615 engine can go 500,000–800,000 km before major overhaul. Cab and frame also hold up well. As for the dump body, it typically needs replacement or major repair after 3–5 years in heavy rock haulage.

Ready to Find Your HOWO 8×4?

Overall, the HOWO 8×4 dump truck is a proven machine for African conditions. It’s not the newest or most sophisticated truck on the market — but it’s tough, parts are everywhere, and the total cost of ownership is hard to beat. Thousands of these trucks are working across the continent right now, making money for their owners every day.

At HebeiCar, we export HOWO 8×4 dump trucks regularly — to Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, Kenya, and beyond. Every truck goes through a full mechanical inspection. You get real photos, real videos, and a real price — not guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions — HOWO 8×4 Dump Truck

Want current inventory and pricing? Contact us with your requirements. We’ll send you available units with inspection reports, photos, and CIF prices for your port.

P.S. — Not sure the 8×4 is right for you? Tell us what you’re hauling and where. We’ll recommend the right truck — even if it’s a different model. No upsells, just honest advice.

About the Author

Wang Jianbin is the founder of HebeiCar (hebeicar.com), a China-based used truck exporter. Since 2014, he has helped 500+ fleet owners and dealers across 20+ African countries — Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, DRC, Ethiopia and more — source quality used HOWO, Shacman, FAW and FOTON trucks at factory-direct prices. Every truck is inspected in his own yard in Shijiazhuang, Hebei before shipping, and he writes about import procedures, shipping logistics, customs clearance and truck selection based on that real export experience.

Watch real inventory walkaround videos on the YouTube channel, or contact Wang Jianbin directly for current inventory and CIF prices via WhatsApp.