How to Identify When Your Forklift Parts Need Replacement

Whether you own a forklift or decide to rent or lease, it’s important that you keep up with regular maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency. There are times when you will need to invest in forklift maintenance, including tune-ups or parts replacement. These seemingly simple tasks can have a big difference in the durability and longevity of your equipment.

The reality is that replacing worn-out parts is a critical step to help you prevent breakdowns and minimize the risk of hazards in the workplace. If components of your forklift are breaking down, then eventually the equipment will fail. These issues can take a toll on your team’s productivity and even put workers at risk. Additionally, neglecting the parts that need to be replaced could lead to bigger issues in the future (and higher forklift repair costs).

The most important thing that you can do is make sure that you are proactive about routine checks. The goal is to identify any potential problems in the earliest stages. Then, these issues can be repaired, and you will be able to keep the fleet in the best condition possible.

Forklift Parts Replacement: Which Parts Need to Be Changed Most Often?

While any part of the forklift could potentially have problems (especially if the equipment is being used improperly), there is a higher risk of wear and tear on certain parts. These are some of the most important parts to include on your forklift maintenance schedule:

• Tires: Forklift tire wear can happen in any environment, but it is even more likely if you are using the forklift in rough terrain. The more a forklift is being used, the sooner you will need to replace the tires.
• Brakes and Hydraulics: If you are experiencing any forklift hydraulic system issues or problems with the brakes, then there might be components in these systems that need to be replaced.
• Forks and Mast Chains: Make sure that you can transport the loads safely by checking the quality of the chains and forks.
• Other Forklift Parts: Your forklift maintenance checklist should also include all electrical parts, batteries, belts, filters, and hoses. These components can be relatively easy to replace, and they will make a big difference in the overall effectiveness and performance of the equipment.
  
  

Signs It’s Time for Forklift Parts Replacement

How can you tell when there are parts on your forklift that need to be replaced? If there are any issues, then you will notice a difference in the performance of the equipment. It’s important to pay close attention when the forklift is in operation. Also, maintain a regular inspection and maintenance schedule so that you can find any issues that need to be addressed.

Some of the most common signs that you need forklift maintenance and parts replacement include:

• Strange Noises: When you are driving the forklift regularly, then you are familiar with the normal sounds. Pay close attention if you hear anything that sounds unusual. If there is an issue, you might hear squeaking, grinding or rattling, which could indicate mechanical wear.
• Power Loss: What does it mean if you notice a decrease in performance? If the forklift is sluggish, then you might need forklift parts replacement for the battery, engine, or hydraulic system.
• Fluid Leaks: Your forklifts shouldn’t be leaking when they are in operation or parked. If you notice leaks on the forklift or on the floor below, then it’s essential to identify the source of the leak as quickly as possible. Leaks usually indicate forklift hydraulic system issues.
• Visible Wear and Tear: A general inspection can help you see many parts that might be replaced. Look for damage or wear on the tires, forks, and chains.
• Dashboard Lights: Always pay attention when warning lights come on. These onboard diagnostics are designed to alert you when there are problems.

Best Practices for Forklift Parts Replacement

How often do the parts on your forklift need to be replaced? It depends on the parts, how heavily the forklift is being used, and how the operators are driving the equipment. It’s important that your team is consistent with a daily forklift safety inspection. Look for obvious issues, such as low fluid levels, cracks, or worn tread on the tires.

If you can see uneven wear, then it could be beneficial to have forklift maintenance and repair in addition to the parts replacement. Yes, you can replace the uneven parts (such as the tires), but you want to make sure that the forklift is operating optimally in the future to avoid these issues again.

As a general rule of thumb, forklift batteries usually need to be replaced after every 1000 – 2000 operating hours. Batteries usually last between 5 – 7 years. The best solution to check the anticipated duration of the equipment is to look at the manufacturer’s recommendations.

FAQs

How often should I inspect my forklift for worn-out parts?

Daily inspections should be occurring before the forklift is used on each shift. Additionally, deeper checks need to be happening weekly and monthly, depending on how frequently the equipment is being used.

What are the most common forklift parts that need replacement?

The most common forklift parts replacement includes tires, brakes, hydraulic hoses, forks, and batteries. But it depends on the type of forklift that you have and the environmental conditions in which the forklift is being used.

How do I know if my forklift’s hydraulic system is failing?

You will notice a difference in the equipment’s performance if there are issues with the hydraulic system. If you have hydraulic parts that need to be replaced, then you will notice that the forklift is lifting slower than normal, it isn’t moving smoothly (there are jerky movements), and you might also find visible leaks.

Call the Pros for Help with Forklift Maintenance

Can you handle forklift maintenance in-house, or is it better to call a technician for help? Basic parts can often be replaced on your own, as long as your team members are trained. But if you have complex parts replacements or bigger issues, then it’s best to call a professional team for assistance.

If you are unsure about the severity of the problem, then reach out to our team right away. ACE Equipment is always just a phone call away. Contact us today to learn more about forklift maintenance, rentals, servicing, sales, and more.