Three Principal Guidelines for Conducting Simple Forklift Repairs
Posted on: 23 November 2020
If you have a faulty forklift on your industrial or commercial property, you should plan for quality repairs. Timely restoration of the equipment is crucial because a malfunctioning unit will compromise overall operational productivity. In simple terms, the faults could result in more downtime. Moreover, you should note that a damaged forklift will increase the risk of workplace accidents and subsequent injuries and expenses. Ideally, the repairs should be carried out by an expert technician. However, there are some simple restorative tasks that you can conduct in-house. Here are fundamental guidelines to help you handle common forklift problems.
Refill the Hydraulic Fluid
One of the common issues affecting forklifts is a malfunctioning mast. This component is critical to the function of the equipment because it is responsible for lifting and lowering the loads. Simply speaking, it is the unit which lowers and lifts the forks supporting the cargo. When the mast is not working well, you will notice problems such as jerking during operation. There might also be a change in the speed of handling the loads. These issues must be resolved to prevent the dropping of valuable goods. Usually, mast malfunctions can be traced to insufficient hydraulic fluids. Assess the level and refill as required. It is also prudent to check for leaks to prevent a recurrence.
Manage Engine Overheating
Engine overheating is not uncommon for forklifts, but it must be handled immediately to prevent damage to internal systems. In most cases, the overheating can be attributed to the blockage of the radiator. If debris and grime build up on the ports of this component, there will be excess heat. You can resolve this problem by cleaning out the dirt in the radiator using clean water. If you notice the same issue recurring, the cause might be a damaged radiator. You might need to replace the component to restore optimal forklift function.
Check the Electrical System
If you have an electrical forklift, you must ensure that the battery is adequately charged at all times. The lack of power will cause a lot of downtime in your operations. If you cannot start the equipment, you should test the charge level of the battery. You will need to recharge if all the electrical components, including the lights, do not work. If the auxiliary features work, you should consult a repair technician. Keep in mind that good charging habits will prevent battery damage. If your traditional combustion forklift is not starting, check the battery, fuel and engine oil.
For more information, contact a forklift repair service.
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