Signs Your Forklift Needs Repairs

You rely on your forklift fleet day-in and day-out. To keep them running smoothly, you know how important regularly scheduled maintenance is to keep your fleet and your business running smoothly. But what warning signs point to more significant needed repairs? Keep an eye out for these key problem signs:

Damaged Chains

Your forklift chains work hard all day to help move your product from point to point. With proper lubrication and maintenance, they can provide nearly 6,000 hours of work time. However, damaged chains can create major, avoidable risks for your operators and business. Problem signs such as damaged links, rust, corrosion, or kinking segments are a major warning that your equipment needs urgent repairs.

Puddled Oil or Other Fluids

If you see trails of fluid or puddles below a parked forklift, you need to get it in for an in-depth maintenance check and possible repairs. Leaking oil, engine coolant, or hydraulic fluid can be a major risk. Leaking fluids can cause additional wear and tear to your engine or transmission, or contributes to issues with lifting hydraulics. While it may be tempting to simply top off fluids, don’t allow leaks to cause damage to your equipment or workspace. 

Information Panel Warning Lights

This seems simple, but it’s often overlooked by operators. Lit warning lights can point to simple problems to solve such as oil levels, engine issues, or tire pressure for some pneumatics. Include the information panel as a portion of your operator training programs and be sure to pay attention to differences across different makes and models of forklifts..

Unusual Exhaust Fumes

Modern forklifts are very clean burning and feature reduced fume production. Pay attention, especially for diesel and gas forklifts, as strange smelling or notable smells  can point to engine problems that may directly impact your operators’ health. In warehouse settings especially, indoor air quality and proper ventilation are essential for maintaining OSHA compliance and a safe, healthy workplace. 

Jittery Lifting

Is your mast’s extension smooth? Does lifting loads result in rattling, clanking, or jittery motion? Problems with your mast, carriage, hydraulics, and chain can all contribute to problems here. If your forklift is shaking when raising loads, it definitely needs a trained technician’s attention. TTo ensure the safety of your operators and forklift fleet, repairs should be completed by a trained professional. Whether you need regularly scheduled maintenance or additional repair services, the team of dedicated professionals at Mid-Columbia Forklift and MidCo Material Handling has your back. Schedule your forklift service with us today.

Further Reading:
Why You Should Outsource Your Forklift Planned Maintenance
Forklift Preventative Maintenance vs. Routine Service
What We Need to Know When You Call for Forklift Service