In order to help prevent the requirement for expensive forklift repairs, it is suggested to inspect the front end of your lift truck frequently as part of your pre-shift and even daily inspection. By catching any problems as they occur or ahead of time, you could also help prevent damage to any type of cargo too. The following includes a few of the common guidelines on what specific stuff to inspect during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Frequently checking the forks is vital because if these are cracked or worn out, they may fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your forklift will need to immediately be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once more. Visually check your forks for any noticeable indications of damage or wear. If the cracks run deeper than on the surface, replace them. Any type of wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is one more sign that you need to replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast must tilt forward and back and be able to smoothly move up and down. If you find that the sliding surfaces are binding, you may need to grease the mast strip sliding surfaces as well as their fittings. On the inner mast there is a fitting located on every side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on every side roller. When the lubricating has been done, tilt it forward and backward and also lower and raise the mast a few times in order to ensure that the lubricant is worked correctly into the fittings.
Tilt Cylinders
Uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage; therefore, your inspection should include inspecting for oil leaks and for damage. Whether the leaks are located inside of the cylinder or are external, the end result can be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any signs of leaks or damage, you may need to replace the whole cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
Inspect and make sure that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be sure to inspect the chains for indications of damage or wear using a chain wear gauge. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain appears rusted or kinked. Both the chain rollers and the sheave bearings also have to be checked for indications of wear.
The mast lift chain will normally wear at the pin-to-link connections. You could experience chain failure if you notice wear. This can end up damaging the product or front end parts. If you need help determining what precisely to inspect on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to perform frequent fleet inspections, simply call your local forklift dealer. Their trained service technicians will help your perform planned maintenance or PM inspections according to your scheduling and application needs.