Forklifts are the lifeblood of construction sites and warehouse work. They’re also a source of serious accidents. Nearly 35,000 forklift accidents cause serious injuries every year.
Using checklists will help you know if you need equipment repair services.
Keep reading to learn what you should check on a regular basis to keep your job site safe and your equipment efficient.
Signs You Need Equipment Repair Services
Basic forklift maintenance means examining your forklift fleet regularly. You must examine all areas of the machine’s inner and outer workings. If you’re not certain where to begin, start with the engine.
Oil
Keep an eye out for leaky oil. If your machinery leaks oil, it will not have the lubrication it needs to run properly. Your engine may even seize if you run out of oil.
Gauges
Keep an eye on your gauges as you run your forklift. They will tell you if you need repairs. If your gauges malfunction, then you won’t have the forewarning you need to prevent bigger problems.
Fork Shape
Your fork does all the heavy lifting, which means the fork will warp over time. A distorted or warped fork will give out or damage the products you’re moving. Replace or repair the fork as soon as you notice the problem.
Mast
The mast should run smoothly at all times. If you notice the mast sticking, take your forklift in for maintenance. A sticky mast can cause your entire forklift to jerk, and this will either damage your load or cause serious injuries.
Chain
A forklift chain has a limited life. Examine your chain regularly for rust, kinks, and corrosion. A failed chain could cause damage to the load or a serious accident.
Also, check your pinheads and link plates. If they show wear, you need to service or replace your chain.
Battery
The average forklift battery should last 2,000 shifts. If your battery is going bad, you’ll notice it does not hold a charge as long.
Pay attention to how long your battery charge lasts. Always charge the battery when it reaches between 20 and 30 percent. Do not allow it to die completely.
If you notice the need to charge your battery more frequently, you may need a new battery. Also, make sure your battery has the right amount of water.
Tires
Check your forklift tires daily. Make sure they have the correct amount of air pressure. Many forklifts have solid rubber tires because they’re more stable. If you have solid rubber tires, check the tires regularly for gashes.
Faulty tires lead to an unbalanced ride and greater potential for a forklift to tip over. Such an accident will damage the goods the forklift is carrying and cause potential serious harm to the driver.
Maintain Your Forklift
Check these seven areas on your forklift daily to ensure a safe, efficient environment. When you notice a problem seek equipment repair services immediately. Forklift experts understand how to get your forklift running smoothly again.
If you find your forklift in need of repair, contact us. Our skilled technicians have the expertise you need to get your fleet up and running smoothly.