1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the SHENGJINSH ZM-168 Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new appliance. Please read these instructions thoroughly before initial use and retain them for future reference.
The SHENGJINSH ZM-168 is designed for commercial use, offering a high yield of 18 liters per hour and the ability to dispense three distinct flavors (two single, one mixed). Its robust 1200W compressor ensures rapid refrigeration and consistent performance.
2. Safety Instructions
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the machine is connected to a grounded power outlet with the correct voltage (refer to specifications). Do not operate with a damaged power cord or plug. Keep electrical components dry.
- Placement: Position the machine on a stable, level surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating. Maintain a minimum clearance of 15 cm (6 inches) from walls or other obstructions.
- Food Safety: Use only food-grade ingredients. Clean and sanitize all food-contact surfaces thoroughly before and after each use to prevent contamination. Do not store ice cream mix in the hoppers for extended periods without proper refrigeration.
- Operation: Do not insert hands or objects into the machine while it is operating. Keep children and unauthorized personnel away from the machine.
- Maintenance: Always unplug the machine before cleaning or performing any maintenance. Do not attempt to repair the machine yourself; contact qualified service personnel.
3. Product Overview
The SHENGJINSH ZM-168 features a user-friendly design with robust components for reliable performance.
Key Features:
- High Yield: Produces up to 18 L/H (5 gallons/hour) of soft serve ice cream.
- Three Flavors: Offers two single flavors and one mixed flavor option.
- Powerful Compressor: Equipped with a 1200W compressor for efficient and quiet operation.
- Food-Grade Materials: Cylinders and covers are made from safe, sanitary materials.
- Smart LED Panel: Displays hardness, quantity, and temperature for easy monitoring and control.
- Automatic Clean Function: Simplifies the cleaning process.
- Removable Drip Tray: Facilitates easy cleaning and prevents spills.
Components:






4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking
- Carefully remove the machine from its packaging.
- Inspect the machine for any shipping damage. Report any damage to the carrier and supplier immediately.
- Remove all packing materials, protective films, and accessories.
4.2 Placement
- Place the machine on a sturdy, level, and heat-resistant countertop or table.
- Ensure there is at least 15 cm (6 inches) of clear space around all sides of the machine for proper ventilation. Do not block the cooling vents.
- Avoid placing the machine near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
4.3 Initial Cleaning
Before first use, thoroughly clean all parts that will come into contact with food.
- Unplug the machine from the power outlet.
- Remove the dispensing handles, dispensing valves, and mixing shafts from the freezing cylinders.
- Wash these components with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and sanitize using a food-grade sanitizer solution.
- Wipe down the hoppers and the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
- Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
4.4 Power Connection
- Ensure the power switch is in the OFF position.
- Plug the machine into a dedicated, grounded electrical outlet that matches the voltage and amperage requirements specified on the product label.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Preparing Ice Cream Mix
- Prepare your desired soft serve ice cream mix according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the mix is thoroughly dissolved and free of lumps.
- Chill the mix to 2-4°C (35-40°F) before pouring it into the machine for optimal results and faster freezing.
5.2 Filling Hoppers
- Open the hopper lids.
- Pour the chilled ice cream mix into the respective hoppers. Each hopper has a 3-liter capacity.
- Do not overfill the hoppers. Ensure the mix level is below the maximum fill line.
- Close the hopper lids securely.
5.3 Starting the Machine
- Turn on the main power switch.
- Press the WORK button on the LED control panel to start the freezing process. The machine will begin to mix and freeze the ice cream.
- Monitor the LED panel for the current hardness setting and temperature. The machine will automatically stop when the desired hardness is reached.
5.4 Dispensing Ice Cream
- Once the ice cream is ready (indicated by the machine or desired hardness level), place a cone or cup under the dispensing nozzle.
- Pull down the corresponding dispensing handle for the desired flavor (left for left hopper, right for right hopper, middle for mixed flavor).
- Release the handle to stop dispensing.
5.5 Adjusting Hardness
- The hardness of the ice cream can be adjusted via the control panel. Refer to the specific instructions on the panel for increasing or decreasing the hardness level.
- Higher numbers typically indicate a harder consistency.
6. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for hygiene, optimal performance, and extending the lifespan of your machine.
6.1 Daily Cleaning (Automatic Clean)

- After the last use of the day, ensure all remaining ice cream mix is dispensed.
- Pour warm water (approximately 40-50°C / 104-122°F) into both hoppers until they are about half full.
- Press the CLEAN button on the control panel. The mixing shafts will rotate to clean the freezing cylinders.
- Allow the machine to run in clean mode for 3-4 minutes.
- Place a bucket under the dispensing nozzles and pull down the handles to drain the cleaning solution.
- Repeat steps 2-5 with fresh water until the drained water is clear.
- Turn off the machine and unplug it.
6.2 Deep Cleaning (Weekly/Bi-Weekly)
For thorough sanitation, a deep clean is recommended regularly, depending on usage.
- Perform the daily cleaning procedure first.
- Disassemble all removable parts: hopper lids, dispensing handles, dispensing valves, mixing shafts, and any seals or O-rings.
- Wash all disassembled parts with warm, soapy water. Use a brush to remove any residue.
- Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water.
- Sanitize all food-contact parts using a food-grade sanitizer solution according to the sanitizer manufacturer's instructions.
- Allow all parts to air dry completely on a clean surface.
- Wipe down the interior of the hoppers and the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth and sanitizer.
- Reassemble all parts, ensuring seals and O-rings are correctly seated to prevent leaks. Lubricate O-rings with food-grade lubricant if necessary.
6.3 Drip Tray Maintenance
- The drip tray is removable for easy cleaning. Empty and clean it regularly to maintain hygiene.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here, please contact customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not start | No power; Power switch off; Circuit breaker tripped | Check power cord connection; Ensure power switch is ON; Reset circuit breaker |
| Ice cream is too soft | Hardness setting too low; Mix not cold enough; Insufficient freezing time | Increase hardness setting on LED panel; Ensure mix is pre-chilled; Allow more time for freezing cycle |
| Ice cream is too hard | Hardness setting too high | Decrease hardness setting on LED panel |
| Machine leaking | Improperly installed seals/O-rings; Damaged seals/O-rings | Reassemble parts correctly, ensuring seals are seated; Replace damaged seals/O-rings |
| Unusual noise during operation | Loose components; Motor issue | Turn off and unplug, check for loose parts; If noise persists, contact support |
8. Specifications
Technical specifications for the SHENGJINSH ZM-168 Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SHENGJINSH |
| Model Name | ZM-168 |
| Model Number | ZM-168 |
| Color | Black |
| Capacity | 3 Liters (per hopper, two hoppers) |
| Hourly Yield | 18 L/H (5 gallons/hour) |
| Power | 1200W |
| Special Features | Automatic Clean, Built-In Compressor |
| Included Components | Ice Cream Maker |
| Recommended Uses | Commercial |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 29.92" x 16.54" x 29.92" |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your retailer. Ensure you have your model number (ZM-168) and purchase date available when seeking assistance.