Forklift Maintenance Guide with Maintenance Schedule to maximizing productivity

With regular usage of the lift truck in various industries, there comes a moment when material handling equipment requires servicing. This helps to enhance the efficiency of lift trucks to a lot of extents. Regular forklift servicing can also help the lift truck to run at full capacity.

Lift trucks can be put to use by various industries such as a warehouse, construction industries, shipping, etc. Therefore, regular lift truck services for inspection are essential to help keep your equipment operating efficiently.

You happen to incur more money if your lift trucks do not undergo maintenance on a constant basis. It further impacts your business as it slows down. There are various reasons why lift truck maintenance is essential to consider.

Forklift Maintenance and Service

Benefits of Regular Forklift Maintenance And Service

#1 Lower Incidences of Forklift Accidents

Numerous accidents occur due to the ill maintenance of forklifts every year. Well, just 5% of them happen to be just fatal accidents.

As the lifting and speed powers exist to the large lift trucks, some of them are just threatening. If any mechanical problems come into consideration, then the lesser strong lift trucks prove to be hazardous.

There are also different injuries associated with the material handling equipment. You must know vital factors to keep in mind while operating the forklifts in rough terrain if your business operations are carried outside.

Proper service of forklifts carried out on time can help prevent a vast array of maintenance issues, as well as extensive repairs that can deteriorate further if neglected. Moreover, a well executed forklift maintenance plan can also help avert a large number of powered industrial truck accidents, most of which occur as a result of damaged tires, neglected repair problems, parts not working properly, and other underlying operating issues.

At Large Lift Trucks, we offer the best-in-class Hoist Forklifts, complete with scheduled maintenance services, that you can select as per your requirement and budget. After all, just like cars can serve a significant]tly longer service life thanks to regular maintenance, so can forklifts! And we take it upon us, to ensure that your forklift is looked after ar regular service intervals.

#2 Enhanced Functioning and Improved Prodcutivity of Business

It is essential for businesses like the warehouse to run their forklifts at 100% capacity, and at the highest level of efficiency possible, only then can the business maintain the desired level of profitability!

Of course, forklift maintenance costs can often seem to be high, but when compared to the delays and looses incurred due to damaged forklifts, these maintenance costs seem completely justified! Moreover, this is one cost centre, that can help save you from innumerable stressful conditions for your business in the long run, while also ensuring that your customers are satisfied with your prompt services!

Needless to say, adhereing to a proper forklift maintenance schedule also enables you to concentrate on operating your business, without worrying about any minor issues such as decreased tire pressure, leaky hoses, usnusal noises during operation, problems with the hood latch, decreased fluid levels including engine coolant, or any underlying occupational health hazards for your employees!

We provide best-in-class forlift maintenance services in the form of low cost packages, that you can select aper your needs and preferences.

Forklift Maintenance Services Provided by Large Lift Rentals Include:

Forklift Maintenance and Service

#1 Complete forklift truck revamp service as per OSHA requirements

At-Large Lift Trucks, we examine each and every aspect of your electric forklifts and analyse whether it needs regular maintenance or preventative maintenance. If it does, we make sure of the same, and if it’s condition warrants extensive repairs, we make sure to revamp the machine as per the requirement of your industry.

Our refurbishing services helps you to increase the overall profitability and productivity of your business while also enhancing the service life of your forklift.

Moreover, we make sure that your revamped forklift is as per the OSHA requirements, thereby not only saving you from any unwanted hassles, but also ensuring the safety and well-being of your forklift operators and employees alike.

We have skilled professionals having vast expertise in forklift inspections, and revamping the parts of a single material handling equipment that involves electric motors as well as combustion engines too.

#2 Maintenance of the forklift mast:

We provide forklift maintenance services that include detailed inspection of masts as well as mast chains, to check for any damage. Frequent maintenance of the mast can help you save on the extensive repair and maintenance costs in the future. Besides, it can also save your employees from any severe safety hazards.

Our expert engineers will help you keep the masts of your forklift in tip top shape, at all times!

#3 Painting and small crashes on your lift truck:

We have notable experts that have vast experience in examining internal combustion forklifts, complete with a forklift maintenance checklist to check for any minor scratches or dents that occur due to extensive usage.

There are three essential factors to consider for painting a used forklift that eventually makes it appear like a new one.

Wrapping Up:

So now you know the value of forklift servicing and maintenance from time to time, it is time to go for the next steps.

All you need to do is contact us, and our promising professionals will assist you further in inspecting your entire lift truck to check for any harm.

Our qualified team will guide you in the best possible manner in solving the issues related to your material handling equipment to ensure the smooth functioning of your forklift for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Forklift Maintenance

1.How often do forklifts need to be serviced?

While the actual frequency of maintenance depends on the usage and wear and tear caused to the equipment as a result of the same, it is safe to say that once every six months is an ideal timeframe for regular maintenance of a forklift. Regular upkeep will ensure that no major problem arises, and that the maintenance costs stay at a minimum at all times.

2.What aspects of Forklift Maintenance can be taken care of by operators?

Daily inspections, regular oil changes, fluid and filter changes, spark plug replacements, maintaining the ideal tire pressure etc. are some of the tasks that can be easily handled by a forklift operator. Doing so will ensure that the equipment doesn’t require more frequent maintenance, while also guaranteeing operator safety!

3.Does OSHA require forklift inspections?

Yes, as per Powered Industrial Truck standard at 1910.178(q)(7) of OSHA requirement, it is clearly stated that “Forklift vehicles have to be inspected at least daily, or after each shift when used around the clock”.

3.Why is it important to do forklift maintenance and upkeep regularly?

Regular upkeep and maintenance of forklifts will maximize your productivity and eliminate the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance ensures all the forklift parts are mentioned effectively, thus streamlining the workflow.

4.What parts of the forklift should be focused on during the maintenance and upkeep procedure?

All parts of the forklift should be properly inspected during the maintenance process. The engine, transmission box, brakes, tires, hydraulic system, steering wheel, electric system, axels, and mast should be kept in good condition to maximize productivity.

5.Can regular forklift maintenance enhance the lifespan of the forklift?

Yes, regular forklift maintenance will not only extend the lifespan of the forklift but also significantly increase productivity. 

6.What safety precautions should a technician and operator consider while maintaining a forklift?

Here are some safety precautions a technician should keep in mind while maintaining and inspecting a forklift:

  • Park the forklift on a level and smooth surface.
  • Engage the parking brakes and switch off the engine.
  • Wear safety gear like gloves, helmets, eyeglasses, boots, etc.
  • Refer to the forklift maintenance guide to visually inspect and upkeep each part.
  • Refrain from lifting heavy parts of the forklift manually.
  • Use fall protection equipment while working at heights.

7.Does regular forklift maintenance increase the operational costs?

On the contrary, regular forklift maintenance helps significantly in reducing overall operational costs. A well-maintained forklift greatly eliminates the possibility of breakdowns and failures.

8.What are some best practices to follow while maintaining the forklift to maximize productivity?

Some practices you can follow while maintaining the forklift are:

  • Check and replace the fluids like engine oil, engine coolant, hydraulic oil, etc.
  • Check the tire pressure and replace the worn-out tires.
  • Clean, charge, and water the battery of the forklift.
  • Update the spare part inventory to ensure faster replacements.
  • Maintain and follow a regular inspection schedule.
  • Lubricate the forklift chain and check the tension using a wear gauge.

9.How to maintain and upkeep the mast of the forklift?

To maintain the mast of the forklift, regularly inspect the tilt cylinder, lifting cylinder, alignment, bearings, and rollers. Also, ensure the safety latches and stops are in good working condition.

Lastly, refer to the maintenance guide or handbook in case of confusion or doubts.