Forklift maintenance is more important than most people realize. If you are proactive about keeping up with seemingly simple maintenance tasks, it has an undeniable impact on the overall performance and lifespan of the equipment. In fact, regular, preventive forklift care is one of the best things you can do to reduce repair costs in the future.

It’s common for forklifts to be operating in demanding environments, so you need to ensure that each piece of equipment is in the best condition and working efficiently. A good maintenance schedule will keep your forklifts in operation as much as possible, helping to reduce the risk of downtime that could cost you money. Keep reading to learn more about the best practices you should be following for your forklift maintenance schedule.

Follow a Forklift Maintenance Checklist and Schedule

The reality is that maintenance and repairs are going to slip through the cracks if you don’t have an established maintenance routine in place. These forklift upkeep strategies need to be followed on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.

Start by performing daily inspections on all equipment. Check the tire condition, brakes, fluid levels, and steering fluid. This daily inspection makes it easy to identify potential issues in the earliest stages, which will help minimize the risk of serious breakdowns or major failures in the coming weeks and months. If any issues are identified during a daily inspection, then it’s important to prioritize repairs as soon as possible to reduce forklift wear and tear in the long run.

Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels

One of the more important parts of your routine forklift inspections is to ensure that fluid levels are looking good. Check the hydraulic fluid to ensure that the system will be able to lift safely and effectively. Also, keep an eye on transmission fluid, coolant, and engine oil. Watch for signs of leaks – these issues should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent a loss of fluid.

Having proper fluid levels is important to ensure smooth operation at all times. These fluids keep everything lubricated to avoid wear and tear by reducing internal friction. Additionally, they help to minimize the risk of overheating.

Take Care of Battery Maintenance and Performance

Be careful with battery charging practices because overcharging or deep discharging can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the battery. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow these instructions.

Additionally, you can extend forklift lifespan by cleaning the battery terminals regularly. If you see any corrosion, then act immediately to clean it up and ensure proper connections.

Many forklifts have lead-acid batteries, which require specific water levels for optimal performance. Check the water level and add more water if needed.

Tire Tread and Performance

The quality of your tires is important, especially when the tires are moving across uneven surfaces or in extreme conditions. Add tire inspection to your regular forklift repair and maintenance schedule. When you have good, reliable tires, they help to prevent forklift issues.

Tire inspection should include a visual check for cracks and wear. Tire rotation can help to ensure even wear on the tread. Keep the forklift on even surfaces to slow down the wear and tear. Also, check pressure levels. When the tires are in good condition, it helps to reduce the risk of accidents on the job.

Keep Moving Parts Lubricated

Forklift health and longevity depend on the proper function of moving parts, including bearings, mast chains, and other components. When you are following proper forklift servicing with lubrication, it reduces friction and ensures smooth lifting during all operations. You can have confidence knowing that the forklift is ready to lift your loads, and good lubrication also helps to decrease the likelihood of an accident or injury.

Most manufacturers provide a recommended lubrication schedule that you can follow. When you are topping off the fluids or lubricating moving parts, always choose high-quality, trusted brands. Pay special attention to any parts of the forklift that may be under heavy stress, such as the forks and masts.

Proper Training for Forklift Operators

One of the best forklift maintenance tips is to ensure that all of your drivers are properly trained on how to use the equipment and identify potential issues. The operators are using the forklifts throughout the day, so they will be the first to notice if any concerns arise.

Teach your forklift drivers about strategies for optimizing forklift performance through proper driving techniques and safety measures. Teach them about warning signs that maintenance is needed. Involve the forklift drivers in the daily inspections and have systems in place to ensure these forklift maintenance checklists are being followed each day.

Schedule Professional Inspections

Even if you are consistent about on-site maintenance and checks, it’s smart to follow a schedule for professional inspections as well. One of our certified technicians will come to your location and complete a comprehensive inspection.

The goal of these inspections is to identify potential issues in the earliest stages – even before they are visible. We make sure all systems are functioning optimally, helping to reduce wear and tear on your machine.

Depending on how heavily your forklifts are being used, we typically recommend inspections every 3 – 6 months.

FAQ

How to prevent forklift breakdowns?

The easiest solution to prevent forklift breakdowns is to take a proactive approach to forklift maintenance. Regular inspections, fluid checks, battery care, and operator training should all be part of this effort.

How often do forklifts need servicing?

Each machine is unique, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most machines require maintenance every 3 – 6 months, depending on the operational demands on the equipment.

Proactive Care for Your Forklifts

Our team at Ace Equipment is here to ensure that your forklifts are always in optimal condition. If you need to schedule a routine inspection or you need assistance with forklift maintenance and repair services, then contact us today.