When material handling equipment is used regularly, with the passing of time it starts looking worn down. Well, there are different ways in which you can make it appear new. Let’s discuss some great tips to consider when restoring the look of your used forklift.

painting a used forklift

Top three things to keep in mind for painting a used forklift:

#1 It is important to choose a good quality paint:

One important consideration for painting a used forklift is to choose good quality paint. It is necessary to select a paint brand with non-flammable solvents in it. The paint you choose should also include a high flash point like 100 degrees or more that can be used on the surface of the forklift.

Another vital safety measure to keep in mind is the paint toxicity. It is necessary to aerate the location that the painting will be taking place in. It’s important to keep the area well-ventilated and to ensure the use of a safety mask, paint goggles, and gloves. It is advised to not to move the forklift until after the paint has dried and to be sure that it is not running at any time during the painting or drying so as not to cause any sparks or serious injuries as a result of the noxious paint gas.

#2 It is important to follow the prescribed tips for painting the used forklift:

Another important factor to consider when painting a used forklift is to follow any specific rules from the US Occupational Safety & Health Administration. Forklift painting becomes dangerous when the lift is running or if the labels are accidentally painted over. To avoid painting on the forklift labels, it is essential to opt for taping on lift truck nameplates or labels. As the leading seller of forklifts, we offer various brands of material handling appliances like Hyster forklift, Toyota, etc. and you can choose as per our industry needs.

#3 Preparing for the forklift paint:

The most crucial part in the process is to clean the forklift appropriately. You must ensure that the battery terminals in the lift truck are appropriately disconnected and wrapped in tape to avoid them from grounding. Another crucial factor to consider before beginning painting a used forklift is to scrub away any grease from inner parts of the lift equipment. To avoid hydraulics from getting destroyed, it is important to unfasten forks and lower fork holders in the lift truck pallets.

Summing Up:

After the paint gets dried up, take off the tape you had applied to the forklift labels and nameplates. At Large Lift Trucks, we offer different new and used forklift for sale of the world leading brands. So, are you looking forward to buying the forklift? If yes, feel free to contact us, and out forklift experts will assist you selecting the best as per your industrial usage.


FAQs About Painting a Used Forklift

Why is it important to choose a good quality paint while painting a used forklift?

Using good quality paint will ensure that there are no mishaps while the forklift is being used. Using paint that is non-flammable and has a high flash point is what is ideal for forklifts. Also, ensure that the forklift is not used until the paint is completely dry.

Are there any safety guidelines for painting a used forklift?

The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration has charted out safety guidelines for painting a forklift to ensure complete safety. They should not be painted when in use while also ensuring that none of the labels get covered with paint.

Are there any special safety instructions to be followed while painting a used forklift?

The forklift should be thoroughly cleaned before you start painting. All the greasy parts, oily surfaces, and dirt should be removed. And, most importantly, it must be ensured that the battery terminals are disconnected to avoid them from grounding. You should also unfasten the forks and lower the fork holders to avoid damaging the hydraulics.

Is it essential to hire a professional painting service or anyone can do it?

It is always better to hire a professional service provider as they will do a better, neater, and safer job at refurbishing your forklift. If an unprofessional or inexperienced person does it, there are chances of undue damage.

Why should I paint a forklift?

Good quality paint will create a protective coating on the surface of the forklift’s body, ensuring that it lasts longer. The wear and tear of a forklift, due to the nature of its work, is quite intense. Painting slows down the process.

What are the benefits of painting a forklift?

Painting a used forklift can yield multiple benefits. 

  • If you plan to sell your used forklift, a fresh paint job will drive up its resale value. 
  • If your forklifts operate in an area visible to your clients or customers and you have just acquired a used forklift, a fresh coat of paint to spruce up the machine will help you maintain a professional brand image and reputation. 
  • Painting your forklift to match your company’s branding can also turn it into a giant moving billboard. 
  • And finally, forklifts are no strangers to bumps and scratches. Over time, these can lead to chips in the paint. If left unattended, the exposed metal will rust over time and compromise the structural integrity of the metal. 

How often should you paint a used forklift?

While there’s no specific timeline, there are a few tell-tale signs that it’s time to paint your forklift:

  • If you notice significant chips or cracks in the paint that leave metal exposed to the elements. 
  • The current coat of paint is fading and has started making the forklift appear old. How you maintain your equipment reflects your company’s image. 
  • Certain countries or states have laws that mandate certain information be displayed on forklifts and other heavy equipment. If the information in question is no longer clearly visible, it may be time to paint your forklift. 

What are the guidelines to follow when painting a used forklift?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has set certain guidelines to be followed when painting industrial equipment. The keys among them are:

  • If the forklift is being painted in a confined space, the operator should wear an airline respirator at all times. 
  • Care should be taken to ensure that the concentration of solvent vapors is always below ten (10) percent of the lower explosive limit.
  • If highly volatile paints are being used, then the painter’s face, eyes, head, and hands should be protected at all times. 

In short, it’s best to get your used forklift painted by professionals. They will be up-to-date with all necessary guidelines and equipment, and you will be left with a professional-grade paint finish on your forklift.