Regular forklift service and maintenance are essential to keep your forklift in great shape and keep your employees safe. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily tasks that make up your business’s day-to-day operation, and you need to remember the importance of ensuring the forklifts in your warehouse are working correctly. Fortunately, there are some straightforward ways to ensure your forklifts are in peak condition.
Check Engine Oil, Coolant and Brake Fluids.
When you have a forklift, you must keep your vehicle in tip-top condition. This is why it’s essential to check engine oil, coolant and brake fluids regularly. Doing this can ensure that your forklift stays in good working order and prevent breakdowns and malfunctions.
Checking engine oil, coolant and brake fluids is a simple forklift service. You need to know where to look. Typically, the engine oil dipstick is located near the front of the engine for front-wheel drive vehicles and the rear of the machine for rear-wheel drive vehicles.
The dipstick has markings indicating when you should add the engine oil and when you should add coolant. There is usually a maximum and a minimum amount of oil and coolant that should be added.
It’s also a good idea to check your forklift’s power steering reservoir. If it’s low, it could cause steering problems. Ideally, it should be complete.
Power steering fluid is typically white wine in color. If you see a non-translucent color, it may be mechanical brake wear. Another possible indication is that you’re getting a spongy pedal feel.
Coolant helps keep your engine from overheating. You should check your coolant level every 50,000 miles. If it’s below the minimum mark, fill it with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water.
Check Tires
One of the essential parts of a forklift’s maintenance is checking the tires. If not maintained properly, the tires may break down, which can cause several safety issues.
A properly inflated tire will help prevent accidents and increase the longevity of the forklift. However, not maintaining the proper pressure can result in the loss of traction, increasing the risk of an accident.
To check the pressure of your forklift’s tires, use a tire pressure gauge. This is especially important to do before each cycle of operation.
In addition to checking the pressure, you should inspect the tire’s tread. Tires can leak or lose air, causing damage to the wheels and rims.
Keeping your forklift in good condition will help protect employees and increase its lifespan of the forklift. An adequately maintained forklift will also increase productivity.
It’s common for tires to become damaged during regular operation. Among the most common types are pneumatic tires. Pneumatic tires are reinforced rubber and provide a smooth ride on paved surfaces. These tires should be replaced when they become worn out.
Another important aspect of forklift maintenance is the battery. An electric forklift’s battery should be examined regularly. Adequately lubricated and maintained batteries help to keep a smooth, reliable operation.
Check Loose Attachments
One essential forklift maintenance and service task is checking all loose attachments. This is crucial because this can cause several problems in the workplace. If not fixed, these objects can cause injuries and damage your inventory.
These attachments include backrests, chain guards, safety bumpers, and overhead guards. Regardless of the type of forklift you own, it is essential to ensure all of these attachments are in proper working order.
Checking the backrest for damages and debris can be an excellent way to spot a problem before it becomes too serious. You can also check the front and rear of the forklift for signs of damage.
The steering wheel should also be checked. If it is not responsive, it may be a sign that the steering system is malfunctioning. It could be due to worn-out gears or poor wheel alignment.
The steering system regulates the pressure of the lift, which affects the lift’s maneuverability. Taking the time to ensure that your forklift is in excellent condition can prevent accidents and reduce downtime.
Keeping track of your forklift’s fluid levels can help you avoid flammable liquid leaks. This is especially important if you operate a gas-operated forklift.
Loose motor cables can be a common problem, as well as jarring on the floor. Ensure that these wires are not corroded or broken.
Keep Employees Safe
Regular forklift service and maintenance can help ensure the safety of your employees and other warehouse workers. With proper forklift maintenance, your facility can save money and reduce unnecessary accidents.
Forklifts are heavy machines that can cause serious injuries if they malfunction. The right maintenance can ensure that your forklift works at its optimal capacity.
Forklift maintenance includes several tasks, such as removing debris from the working area. The work area must be well-lit and free of debris. Also, a clean work area is necessary to prevent accidents.
Regular forklift service and maintenance will also protect your employees from unnecessary injuries. An adequately maintained forklift will not only save money on repairs but will also help increase performance.
Before a forklift is used, it is essential to inspect it for any problems. A qualified technician can do this. Ensure the technician has the necessary certifications and training to perform forklift maintenance and service.
When a forklift is in operation, it is essential always to use safety signals. The operator should always stay within the recommended speed, check the forklift’s stability, and look in the direction of travel.
Other safety tips include:
- Ensuring that your forklift is in good shape.
- Keeping the load in its designated spot.
- Observing the rules of the road.
Forklift loads can fall over if unsecured or the load moment is imbalanced. If the load moment is insufficient, the rear wheels may rise off the ground, and the forklift could tip over.
