Want to ensure your forklift has a long and reliable life? Regular and proper maintenance can extend the life of your equipment by up to several years. In this article, you will learn how to take care of a forklift so that it will serve for a long time.

Today, companies often rely on the reliability and efficiency of their equipment. One of the key components of many warehouses, manufacturing plants or industrial halls are forklifts, whose role in logistics and warehousing is invaluable. However, like any machine, forklifts require regular care and attention. Proper forklift maintenance is not just a routine task on the list of chores – it’s an investment in safety, productivity and long-term savings.

Why is forklift maintenance important?

Regular forklift maintenance is important for both economic and worker safety reasons. Here are some of the main reasons why you should invest time and resources in taking care of the technical condition of this type of equipment:

Security

Forklifts are powerful machines capable of moving heavy loads. Damaged or worn parts can lead to breakdowns or accidents, putting operators and other workers at risk. Accidents involving forklifts can cause serious injury and in some cases even death.

Economic aspects

Regular maintenance and replacement of worn parts can significantly extend the life of a forklift, resulting in significant cost savings in the purchase of new equipment. Also, preventing small problems before they become big, expensive failures comes out much more favorably. Often, minor repairs and maintenance come out much cheaper than major technical interventions that may be needed if equipment is neglected.

Work efficiency

Forklift failure can lead to downtime, which in turn affects delays in deliveries, production or other logistics processes.An efficient forklift ensures faster and more efficient movement of loads, resulting in greater productivity in the warehouse or production facility.

Key steps in forklift maintenance

Here are the main tips for proper forklift maintenance:

Daily Review

Before you start working with a forklift, conduct a daily inspection to check for visible damage or fluid leaks.
Check the condition of the tires for cracks or other damage.
Make sure lights, sirens and horn are working properly.

Cleaning

Clean the forklift thoroughly, removing dust, dirt and other debris. In this way, you will prevent the accumulation of contaminants that can affect the performance of the device.

Lubrication

Regularly lubricate all moving parts of the cart, such as lifting chains and joints, to ensure their proper operation and reduce the risk of wear.

Checking fluids

Constantly check and replenish the level of oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid and other operating fluids.

Battery

If the wheelchair is powered by a battery, check its condition regularly. Make sure it is properly charged and has no visible damage or leaks.

Air filter

Check and replace the air filter to prevent dirt from entering the engine.

Brakes

Make sure the brakes are working properly. If necessary, consult a mechanic.

Forks

Damaged forks can pose a serious safety hazard, so check their condition regularly for cracks or deformations.

Documentation

Maintain accurate records of all inspections, repairs and maintenance performed. This will help ensure that all the necessary work has been done.

Training

Conduct regular forklift operation and maintenance training for all operators. Knowledge of proper maintenance and use can significantly extend the life of your equipment.

Maintenance frequency for forklifts

Forklifts are subject to inspection by the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT), so they must meet certain standards and safety requirements. Maintenance of forklifts is important to ensure their reliability, long operation and user safety. Here are some tips on the frequency of forklift maintenance:

  • Daily pre-start inspection: each day before starting work, the forklift operator should conduct a brief inspection to check for any damage, fluid leaks or malfunctions.
  • Periodic maintenance: many forklift manufacturers recommend periodic maintenance every 250 hours of operation for forklifts with internal combustion engines and every 500 hours for electric forklifts. These values can vary from model to model and manufacturer to manufacturer, so it’s a good idea to consult the manual for your particular cart.
  • Annual technical inspection: in addition to regular inspections, the forklift should undergo a thorough technical inspection at least once a year.
  • Additional maintenance in case of intensive use: if the forklift is used in particularly harsh conditions (e.g., in heavy industry, in refrigerated warehouses or in an environment with a lot of dust), it may be necessary to perform maintenance more frequently.
  • Check for disturbing signals: if the wheelchair starts making suspicious sounds, loses power or other abnormalities appear, contact the service center as soon as possible.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow the instruction manual. Regular maintenance and servicing of the forklift will not only ensure its long life, but also help avoid costly repairs in the future.