As a facility owner, manager, or supervisor, the safety of the truck operators and operational efficiency are most likely two of your major concerns. While not many people are aware of it, periodic maintenance of the forklift and replacement of certain parts at recommended intervals can help you achieve both objectives rather conveniently!

Why some forklift parts cannot be repaired?

If you are wondering why these forklift parts cannot be repaired and must be replaced, here’s your answer. Forklifts deal with heavy loads and are often operated at full capacity for long hours. This makes certain parts of the vehicle more vulnerable to damage or degradation. Hence, complete replacement of such parts is highly recommended, to avert any performance lacks and worse – breakdowns. Not only will this help keep your forklifts in top operational condition, but will also help you avoid heavy expenses on extensive repairs and downtimes. 

So, without further ado, let’s start with the list of forklift parts that may need replacement after a certain duration of use. But, before we start, you must know that there may be a slight difference in the timelines of part replacement depending on the type of forklift and forklift brand i.e. IC-powered or Electric Forklift. Hence, in case of any confusion, feel free to reach out to the experts at Large Lift Trucks in Houston!   

Forklift Parts that Often Need Replacement

Power Steering Hose

Forklift Parts

To avoid any issues pertaining to a damaged hose, it is strongly recommended that you replace the power steering hose in 1.5 to 2 years, or within 3000 to 4,000 hours of use. That said if there are any apparent signs of damage to the line such as the need for more force while steering, bumpiness in the steering column, or overall increased difficulty in operating the steering wheel, you may need to repair or replace the steering hose before the recommended duration.    

Hydraulic Fluid Suction Hose

Hydraulic and reservoir tank hoses ought to be replaced every 2 years or after 4,000 hours of use. Wondering, why so? Well, to begin with, these hoses enable the flow of hydraulic fluid and oils that are essential to the effective functioning of the machine, especially shifting and coolant loss. Any spilling or leakage of these fluids may prove to be detrimental to the forklift’s operation.

In addition, over the course of time, the jacket of the forklift may be compromised due to the presence of cracks. Since it is the jacket’s task to keep the structural member of the system safe, if not replaced timely, it can make the hose vulnerable to external damage and unwanted spills. 

Hence, it is crucial that the hose is replaced at an ideal time. Of course, in the event of noticeable cracks or breaks in the jacket, or worn spots on the hose, you may need to replace the hose earlier than the recommended timeline. 

Fuel Hose

Fuel hose is only found in IC forklifts, but when it comes to timely replacement, it is one part that you need to have a keen eye for. While the recommended timeline for fuel hose replacement is 4,000 hours, it is extremely important to notice warning signs such as visible fuel leaks, fuel odor, misfiring engine etc. Since fuel leakages can lead to exceptional harm to the facility, its contents and most importantly the workers, in case of any signs of damage, the fuel hose must be replaced with utmost urgency.  

Brakes as per makes and models

When it comes to bearing the load of bringing hundreds and thousands of pounds worth of material to a screeching halt, the brakes of a forklift do an incredible job. Given the humongous task at hand, it is only natural for the brakes to wear out after consistent use for 2 years, and therefore need replacement every alternate year. This is rather crucial, as brakes are the single most important component of a forklift that ensures the safe operation of this large vehicle. 

Tires

Right from operational efficiency to fuel efficiency, from operator comfort to seamless functioning, a wide array of aspects pertaining to the forklift are dependent on the tires. Since it is the tires that bear the load of the forklift it isn’t surprising that they need to be replaced regularly, preferably once every two years. If not taken care of in a timely manner, forklift tires can wear out, chunk, tear or even experience balding, even if you invest in the top brands. All of this may not only lead to reduced productivity but may even cause accidents. 

To avert any such situation, it is advisable to be on the lookout for signs such as unusual sounds especially while applying brakes, and visual signs of wear and tear. As soon as such signs start surfacing, you must get in touch with a team of experts at Large Lift Trucks in Houston, and get your vehicle checked out. Based on its condition, and the number of work hours it has served, the inspection agent will recommend either repair or replacement of the tires. 

We hope that you now have more than just a few reasons to consider the timely replacement of forklift parts. Of course, when you do it, don’t forget to get in touch with the experts at the most reputed forklift replacement part providers in Houston, i.e. Large Lift Trucks

Other forklift parts that need replacement

Some of the other forklift parts that often need replacement over the due course of time include, but are not limited to – 

  • Oil & Air Filters
  • Wheel Cylinder Rubber Parts
  • Bearings
  • Swing Lock Cylinder
  • Lift Chain
  • Lift Truck Batteries
  • Forklift Mast Parts

KNOW MORE ABOUT FORKLIFT PARTS AVAILABILITY HERE

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the forks of the forklift need replacement?

Forks are inarguably the most used and the most load-bearing pieces of equipment on a forklift, and hence wear out over the due course of time and material handling. Before the forks get too worn out and suffer damage or breakage during operation, you must replace them. 

When should I go for replacing the forks of my lift truck?

  • If the shank of the fork seems to be sagging or appears bent, or the blade angle exceeds 93°, it must be replaced immediately
  • If there are tiny cracks in the heel and weld areas of the blade it may be time to replace the forks
  • If the tips of the fork aren’t approximately the same in height, it calls for the replacement of the fork
  • If the forks are down to 90% of their original thickness, you should promptly replace them 
  • If the hooks appear to be cracked or bent, or the positioning locks are not functioning properly, it might be time to consider replacing the forks.

Which is the best place to search for replacement forklift parts in Houston?

If your forklifts in Houston need replacement parts, you can get in touch with one of the most reputable service providers for high-quality and original forklift parts. There is currently a great selection of parts in stock, for excellent prices, that could be the perfect solution to your problem. Buying parts from your local area will cut down the price of shipping and save you time. You can also find an excellent range of replacement parts in your local area online.