What You Need to Know – Getting Your Forklift Serviced 

Have the questions “When does my lift need service?”, “Where can I get parts to service it?”, or “How do I get my lift serviced?” ever crossed your mind? Strict OSHA and EPA standards, shrinking margins, and reduction of down time make the answers to these questions paramount.

Forklift hours are often listed by runtime, or when the key switch is in the “on” position. Electric lift trucks by contrast, typically have maintenance intervals based on hydraulic/drive motor running hours. Many manufacturers recommend providing maintenance every 250 hours but depending on your make and application, you should verify your user’s manual or consult your forklift service provider.

Serviced at every service interval:

• Fuel Filter
• Oil Change
• Oil Filter
• Air Filter
• Lubricate Frame and All Lube Points
• Mast and Attachments
• Drive Train
• Engine Compartment (including fluids & filters)
• Electrical System
• Brakes
• Hydraulics
• Steering System
• Safety and Cosmetic Appearance

Every other service interval change

• Antifreeze
• Spark Plugs
• Replace Points, Condenser and Set Timing

Serviced at every service interval:

• Hydraulic Oil and Filter
• Oil and Filter in Transmission and Converter
• Lube in Drive Hubs
• Brake Fluid

When a lift truck gets regular everyday use, it is a good idea to have a fully trained and licensed technician look it over on a timed schedule. Many dealers, like Lift Truck Supply, offer planned maintenance agreements that help keep you on the right track by notifying you when it is time for maintenance, works with your schedule to reduce downtime, and have technicians that service your lifts on site.

If you service your lift truck internally or want to cut down on parts costs there are several websites like short-pear.flywheelsites.com that have aftermarket parts for purchase that ship right to your door.

If you do not have a current servicing plan; then today is the day to begin. Without good practices set in place you will find repair cost piling up, worker downtime accruing, and profits declining. With good maintenance comes a great forklift to meet your material handling needs. Remember good practices start with you!