TIPS FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF YOUR LIFT TRUCK

Why maintenance is so important

A well-maintained and cared-for machine in a company is like a Swiss timepiece that does its job and is used efficiently. But not only that, because it also guarantees a safe working tool for everyone who maintains the machine. Not least because of the official technical controls, which are carried out regularly in every company, you must ensure that your forklift is in perfect working order. Having to make repairs not only costs you money, but also wastes valuable time getting a job done or finished.

This is how effective maintenance works:

In order to ensure that your forklift is perfectly and easily maintained, it is necessary to draw up a list. On it you note which points of maintenance are particularly important, either for the effective use of the work equipment, or for the safety of the persons who work with it, or to prevent malfunctions as a result of repairs. Follow this list at regular intervals and check the forklift carefully for the points listed there.

Check daily whether you detect any damage to the machine, whether all parts run smoothly and without disturbing noise, whether all fluids are still sufficient and look at the stickers of the official inspection bodies. These must not only be up-to-date, but also legible and placed in a conspicuous place on the forklift.

Also follow the manufacturer's recommendations or specifications. After all, the manufacturer designed or built the forklift truck and therefore knows what is important to guarantee that the forklift truck can be used for a long time and does not cause problems. If there are any deviations from your own machine, take immediate action and notify the service team or a certified workshop to avoid further damage or downtime.

Depending on the type of forklift, it is of course important to pay attention to the battery and charge level in electric models. In addition, there should be no exposed cables or loose covers. These can cause damage not only to the machine itself, but also to the area surrounding the forklift if they fall off, or even cause accidents involving people.

Watch the tires

The forklift is on the move almost all day long, driving back and forth through the aisles, stopping, picking up goods and driving up and down again. This means that the tires are exposed to a high degree of pressure. Do not take this for granted, but check the tires regularly for wear, any holes or cracks and repair them immediately. Keep in mind that defective tires will not only damage the forklift itself, but also the ground or floor in your facility.

Regular cleaning is crucial

It goes without saying that a forklift truck becomes dirty or dusty during use. Many workers and drivers tend to ignore it, but the dirt that collects on the machine should not be underestimated. That is why your lift truck should be cleaned at least weekly, not only to remove dirt and other accumulations, but also - if necessary - to replace the filters and clean the radiator. Not only can this avoid significant costs in the event of future damage, but it also protects your employees who work with the forklift.

<h3> Prevent small problems from getting bigger </H3>

Even if you maintain and clean your forklift regularly, minor problems can still arise from time to time. Whether it is that the brakes slack or that other small damages appear. To prevent these from becoming bigger and thus really pricey, it is important to have the right personnel who also communicate with each other and can deal with problems or damage to the machine. After all, a malfunctioning or even damaged forklift truck not only requires a lot of financial hassle and causes business interruptions, but in the worst case can also become a danger to employees.

So if the forklift suddenly starts making unnatural noises, dragging or skidding something, you should keep an eye out for it. Switch off the device immediately and examine it extensively and carefully.

Make sure that professionals are on board on time