Forklifts, like any piece of equipment, needs consistent maintenance in order to run in tip-top state. Agreed forklifts are prized assets and an essential part of daily operations for many businesses; it is surely in their best interests to maintain them properly.
Forklifts frequently operate in harsh environments, so regular maintenance is vital to keep repair expenses down and decrease downtime caused by huge breakdowns.
Manufacturer manuals frequently outline servicing tips and regularity, so acquaint yourself with the guidelines and mind the manufacturer’s counsel.
If you suspect that a forklift is insecure or in need of repairs, make certain it is not in use until any problems have been fixed by a skilled mechanic.
What to look out for
Just about every part of your forklift needs to be examined, cleaned, and retuned at some point, from the tyres to the tynes and everything in between.
Here are some pieces to check and look out for:
- Cushion tyres – Once 30 to 50 per cent of the rubber has worn out, the tyres need to be swapped.
- Pneumatic tyres – Change tyres once the tread has worn down considerably, as that will compromise traction and stability.
- Tynes – Tynes need to be examined for cracks and alignment from time to time, or if any kind of fender-bender happens.
- Mechanical components – Any amount of mechanical errors can happen with a forklift so any anomalies in operation should be inspected instantaneously.
How often should you maintain
The total and type of maintenance essential for your forklifts will be determined by aspects such as their age, condition, monthly operating hours, and vulnerability to wear.
Some types of forklift maintenance should be carried out more often than others. Most maintenance tasks can be separated into daily, monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual tasks.
As a over-all rule, forklift operators should carry out a swift visual inspection of their forklifts at the start of each shift to check for leakages, damaged tyres, fluid levels, and signs of any possible glitches.
Monthly maintenance should be done approximately every 200 hours of operation. These maintenance tasks consist of oiling the chassis and mast components, changing the engine oil, and reviewing the tilt and lift cylinder operation.
Quarterly and semi-annual maintenance includes a more comprehensive inspection and must be done by a qualified mechanic. Maintenance tasks during these times should consist of inspection of hydraulic and other mechanical systems, engine servicing, and replacing brake fluid and engine coolant.
A servicing schedule should be created and maintained for all your forklifts so it is clear which servicing tasks need to be finished when. This may need some time and work, but it will save you a lot of time and money in the long run
I am Forklift Technician, I have been working for CATERPILLAR lift truck, Linde & Mitsubishi
I am looking for new job
[email protected]
00966533687988
I agree that forklifts often work in a harsh environment so it’s always important to have maintained properly. I like how you explained the useful maintenance tips in operating a forklift. My brother is planning to work as a forklift operator, and I will advise him of the maintenance tips that you mentioned once he gets the job. I heard that his prospect company rents forklift services. Well, I think it’s all the more vital that he needs to maintain them because it’s expensive to replace one in case it gets damaged.
I appreciate what you said about carrying out a swift visual inspection before operating a forklift. Hiring a professional repair service is the best way to go if your forklift suffers any damage or malfunctions. If I operated a faulty forklift, I would waste no time contacting a reliable repair service in my area in order to administer any necessary fixes.
I appreciate how you suggested that forklift maintenance should be carried out consistently in order to ensure that it is in top condition. My husband is needing some heavy lifting done for a construction project, but isn’t sure if his equipment is working properly. I’ll be sure to recommend that before he attempt any large project, he find a forklift repair service in his area that can help ensure that his machinery is working properly in order to avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future. Thanks for the tip!