Getting the most out of your new or used forklift is not as difficult as you may think. This forklift inspection checklist will help keep your lift running smoothly for many years.
We list some simple steps a forklift owner can do to have their lift run at optimal performance. Sticking to a strict forklift maintenance schedule and promptly addressing any performance-related issues can result in the efficiency and longevity of your forklift.
A forklift inspection checklist will improve the performance of your forklift.
Here’s what you should do:
1. Stick To A Forklift Maintenance Schedule
Part of a forklift inspection checklist includes keeping to a maintenance schedule for your forklift is the best way to optimize your forklift performance. Mark your calendar and get these important tasks done!
Change the oil
It’s recommended that you should change the oil in your forklift every 3 months to increase forklift fuel economy, improve your forklift’s overall performance and prevent forklift combustion problems. If the oil isn’t changed there’s a chance for corrosion, failure of the catalytic converter and build-up of engine sludge which will affect forklift performance.
Change other forklift fluids
In addition to maintaining the oil levels, it is also important to change all other required fluids. Make sure to also monitor your forklift hydraulic fluid.
Check forklift tires
Make sure your forklift tires are inflated properly to maximize output. It’s also important to put the right kind of tires on your forklift, especially for terrain and operation style lifts.
2. Improve the Battery Life of Your Forklift
Another part of a forklift inspection checklist includes the proper care and maintenance of your forklift battery. This will increase the battery’s life by over 40%, decrease expenses, improve your battery safety and maintain forklift performance.
According to Industry Tap, the battery on an electric forklift can account for up to 30% of the cost of the vehicle. The lifespan of a battery can be prolonged by taking the appropriate steps to assure they are functioning properly.
Do not let your forklift battery go below 20%
It is recommended that you recharge the battery when it discharges 80% (in most batteries, it is when the discharge meter reaches the red zone) of its charge. Do not let it go below this.
Do not charge your forklift battery during breaks
Many lift operators have gotten into the habit of giving their battery a quick charge during their lunch break or other break times. The lifespan of the battery is determined by how many charge cycles it has undergone.
Over time, the habit of short charging times will decrease the battery’s efficiency and eventually, the battery will not charge at all.
Check your forklift battery’s water level
Water plays an important role in maintaining a healthy forklift battery. Check the water level regularly and add distilled water whenever you see that the water level has come down.
During a cycle, the water gets heated up and splits into its components – hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen gets discharged at the negative plate while oxygen is discharged at the positive plate. With time, the water level will come down.
When the water level becomes too low, the plates are exposed to air. The active material on the plates will become dry and brittle, causing permanent damage. So check your forklift battery water level often, and make checking it a part of your ongoing lift check.
3. Maintain All Moving Parts of Your Forklift
The last part of your forklift inspection checklist is making sure the moving parts on your forklift are lubricated. If these parts lose their lubrication they become more static and friction occurs.
By keeping your forklift parts greased, you can prevent a host of potential problems. Proper lubrication of forklift parts prevents oxidation and rust and limits calcium build up.
And don’t forget to replace worn out forklift ball bearings to ensure your lift operates smoothly and efficiently. Check your forklift moving parts frequently to avoid a malfunction due to the parts being excessively worn.
You might also be interested in this forklift information:
Common forklift questions
6 forklift safety tips
8 benefits of buying a used forklift
The most common types of forklifts and what they are used for