How to Maintain a Forklift Truck
A forklift can make your business operations much more efficient, and they can be expensive, so it makes sense that once you’ve invested in one, you should keep it well maintained. A good forklift can last for at least 10 years if it’s cared for.
There are many different types of forklift truck, and the frequency of maintenance will depend on how old it is and how much it gets used on a day to day basis. It’s a good idea to do a quick visual inspection every few days, then there should also be a quarterly or 6-monthly comprehensive inspection carried out by a mechanic.
Here’s out top tips on how to maintain a forklift truck:
Keep all moving parts lubricated
This reduces friction on the forklift which keeps it working as it should. If you don’t oil the parts regularly, they’ll start to wear out, which means that the forklift can fail or breakdown.
Always adhere to the guidance on maximum load capacity
Don’t overload the forklift as its parts will wear out quicker and the machine will cease to function. Also, there is a safety aspect here. Making a few trips might take more time, but it avoids potential injury and damage to equipment.
Check all fluid levels
Check that the forklift has sufficient hydraulic fluid, coolant, and motor oil to keep it working optimally. Coolant prevents the forklift’s engine from overheating or freezing, and it helps to reduce the risk of corrosion. If you find that the levels of one or more of the fluids is consistently less than it should be, carry out some maintenance and check for an underlying issue.
Check the tires every day
Make sure the tires have sufficient pressure, using an air pressure gauge. Low tire pressure can cause wear and tear on the wheels and traction will be poor, which makes it more likely that the truck will end up needing comprehensive maintenance and repair.
Check the instrument panel
The panel has gauges and lights that will tell you when a part of the truck is not working as it should. If you act swiftly, it should be easy to diagnose the problem before it fully affects the operation of the truck. Make sure that the lights and gauges are fully operational, or you might not know that a part of the truck is faulty until it’s too late.