Forklifts have been used since the early 1900s to carry and distribute heavy equipment. When you use a forklift you need to know how to use and maintain the equipment properly. Forklifts are expensive pieces of equipment, so you need to make sure you properly care for them while they’re in your possession. Keep reading to find out more about three maintenance tips when using a forklift rental.

1. Inspect Your Machine Daily

When dealing with forklift rentals you need to inspect the forklift every day before it is used. This is not only a good way to spot potential issues before they become big problems, but it’s also an OSHA requirement. These daily inspections are done to make sure the forklift is safe to use and to prevent costly repairs.

A standardized checklist, like one provided by OSHA, is the best way to implement daily inspections. This ensures all areas of concern are fully checked out before the forklift is operated. Important elements to check include:

  • Tire pressure
  • Seat belt functionality
  • Fluid levels
  • Brakes
  • Forks
  • Hoses

2. Follow a Maintenance Schedule

Just because the forklift you’re using has shown no signs of wear and tear, you need to adhere to your manufacturer-provided maintenance schedule. Most manufacturers either base their inspection schedule on the amount of use, or time that has passed since the last check. 

Keeping on top of your forklift maintenance schedule ensures small things don’t pile up. By sticking to a schedule you’ll be able to replace spark plugs, make filter changes, and ensure your tires are in good condition. This will help you avoid unexpected downtime if your forklift needs to be sent out for repairs. 

3. Clean Your Forklifts Weekly

Cleaning a forklift doesn’t just improve its aesthetic, it’s also an important safety feature. Dirt, dust, and combustible materials can build up over time and block the radiators. The buildup can also hinder the efficiency of the operation of the forklift.

You need to clean forklifts weakly to ensure the machine works properly. The cleaning process should include:

  • Blowing out the radiator
  • Changing dirty filters
  • Wiping down dirty elements

Regular cleaning of all elements of a forklift will help keep the machine running for many years to come. This will also reduce the wear and tear on the machine due to the buildup of dirt and debris. 

Using a Forklift Made Easy

When you’re using a forklift you need to know how to properly maintain the equipment. If you’re not thorough when it comes to material handling and all the necessary steps to keep everyone involved safe, you can damage the equipment or even get hurt. When you’re renting forklifts it’s crucial that you take all the precautions to ensure you don’t damage the rental equipment.

If you’re looking to rent a new forklift, contact us today. Superior Industrial Products serves the Nashville, TN, and Fort Worth, TX markets.