It can be time-consuming to choose the right forklift truck for your operation, and it involves a lot of uncertainty. A used forklift truck can be expensive to repair, so it is always a good idea to start checking the most problematic areas that could be expensive to repair before purchasing a used forklift truck.
Below are some of the most common problem areas to evaluate when purchasing a used forklift truck.
Potential problem areas
- Forks and mast
When a forklift truck mast fails, it can cause the forks not to function well when lowering or raising a load. Mast fails due to broken wires, battery issues, or faulty switches. Inspect the forks for cracks, warping, or bends. Ensure the fork heels’ thickness match the thickness of the fork shanks. Check the mast rails, rollers, and chains for cracks, damage, missing bolts, and rust to ensure that they anchor securely.
- Hydraulics component
Forklifts get the lifting power from the hydraulic system. Failure of one hydraulic component can lead to problems in the whole hydraulic system. When buying a used forklift truck, inspect forklift hydraulic components like clamps and hoses for any leaks or cracks. Ensure there is equal tension distribution of both the hose and lift chain. Check the hydraulic system functionality using levers to lift, lower, tilt, and side shift load arms. Forklift hydraulic fluid needs to be clean to prevent hydraulic pump damage, and the filters are not blocked, causing fluid routing problems.
- Frame, cowing, and canopy
Inspect the forklift chassis for any signs of damage, cracks, bends, or modifications. Ensure the canopy is stable to protect the operator from any falling objects. Check for any damaged windows in case of an enclosed cab. Are the tires worn out and the lug nuts damaged or missing? Inspect the status of the tires to ensure they are not worn past the wear line and by checking on the lettering on the tire sidewall. Check for any structural damage before purchasing a used material handling equipment.
- Engine compartment
Engine problems like overheating may be due to debris lodged in the radiator. Inspect the engine compartments for any dirt buildup, leaks, and cracks on the hoses. Ensure the belts are tight, not worn out, and are lubricated well. Check the engine oil condition and oil level on the dipstick and inspect the air filter to make sure it is clean.
- Battery
Electric forklift trucks use a battery as a source of power. Battery issues are likely to be caused by a bad connection, damaged connector, or dying battery. Inspect the battery for any acid leaks, corrosion, all battery connections are in good working order, and if the cells have enough water. Confirm if the battery size is the right size and weight for your load lift requirements by checking the data plate.
- Load capacity
Ensure the load-rating capacity placard meets your forklift truck capacity requirements. Purchasing a used forklift truck that does not meet your requirement lowers business productivity, can cause injury to the operator, and damage the materials.
Visit us at Van Adrighem Group for more information on the purchase of used material handling types of equipment.
