Product Review: Hangcha’s RT35 Rough Terrain Forklift

These days, you can find a product to fit any niche. Specialization is the norm, with new products popping up daily to meet highly specific needs. Yet, with all that concentrated focus, finding a multipurpose product is more challenging. So what do you do if you need a forklift that can tackle any environment you throw at it? You acquaint yourself with the Hangcha RT35.

The RT35 is part of Hangcha's line of compact, 4-wheel drive, rough terrain forklifts. This mighty lift handles everything from paved industrial settings to rugged off-road applications. It's a workhorse design wrapped up in a travel-sized package. Read on to learn more about what sets the Hangcha RT35 apart and how it might be your best choice for an outdoor forklift.

Favorite Features

There are a lot of reasons to fall in love with the Hangcha RT35, but three stand above the rest.

The Go Anywhere Forklift

The Hangcha RT35 is outfitted with an impressive array of all-terrain features. Things like stabilizing deep-tread tires, a Kubota engine, and a locking differential combine to provide the power and durability needed for even the most rugged job sites.

Designed To Get Dirty

Rough terrain and inclement weather are tough on any forklift. That's why the RT35 is made for easy maintenance. That way, the rigors of off-road never slow you down.

Easy on the Joints

Long days driving over uneven terrain can be as tough on the operator as they are on the forklift. However, the RT35 proves they don't have to be. Its ergonomic features ensure operator comfort even over a busy shift by reducing nuisances like vibration and cramped leg space.

Specification Summary

Product Name: Four-Wheel Drive Rough Terrain Forklift 3.5t
Model: RT35
Manufacturer: Hangcha
Lifting Capacity: 5,000 to 7,000 lbs
Lift Height: Up to 157.5 in (Standard Wide View Mast), or up to 236.2 in (Optional 3 Stage Mast)

Special Features

This compact outdoor forklift is bursting with industry-leading features that remind us that good things come in small packages.

Reliability

• Cleaner intake. The RT35 uses a Kubota engine with a pre-cleaner. This removes dirt, debris, and water from the air intake before reaching the air filter. This improves durability in off-road applications and extends the air filter's life.
• Longer running lights. The updated lighting system increases energy efficiency. This provides more operational time while also improving the illumination.
• High ground clearance. The RT35 has a ground clearance of 10.6 in. Combined with a low center of gravity, this allows the forklift to maneuver easily over uneven terrain.
• Superior braking. Wet brakes offer reliable stopping power and longer service life even in rugged working conditions.

Performance

• Higher speed. The full-floating hydraulic transmission paired with 4-wheel drive allows the forklift to run at higher speeds even over rough terrain. At top speed, the truck can move up to 16.2 mph.
• Climb steeper grades. The floating transmission and 4-wheel drive also allow the RT35 to tackle steeper grades, an essential ability for off-road forklifts.
• Level driving. The RT35 includes an oscillating steer axle. With this, the wheels move independently over obstacles while the forklift remains level.
• Improved traction. The electronic locking differential increased traction during inclement weather and muddy road conditions.
• Load sensing. A dynamic load sensor in the steering system improves the efficiency of the hydraulic system.
• Smaller profile. The Hangcha RT35 features a compact design compared to similar rough-terrain forklifts. This allows the RT35 to operate in more confined working areas and makes transporting it to remote job sites easier.
• Tier 4F compliant. The Kubota engine combines common rail fuel systems, diesel oxidation catalysts, and diesel particulate filters to limit emissions. These limits make this diesel forklift an environmentally friendly option.

Safety

• Operator presence sensing system. The RT35 includes an OPS system that shuts down all mast and drive functions when the operator leaves the seat.

Ergonomics

• Easy on the eyes. The RT35 includes a 4 in color LCD display with 4-button operation.
• Reduced vibration. The frame and drive system are designed to reduce vibrations and increase operator comfort.
• Legroom. The cabin provides extra legroom to reduce operator fatigue.
• Ergonomic controls. The steering wheel and brake system have been redesigned and paired with easy-to-use levers to reduce common forklift operator injuries.
• Improved visibility. The Hangcha RT35 includes a wide-view mast and expanded rear view to enhance visibility in 360 degrees.

Maintenance

• Easy diagnostics. The cab-integrated LCD instrument display indicates the forklift’s current state as well as any fault codes. This allows an improved understanding of the RT35’s condition.
• Intuitive fusebox. The fusebox has been redesigned to make maintenance more convenient with an intuitive layout. This upgrade also improves water resistance.
• Easy access hatches. The engine compartment access hatch is easy-to-open, and the two-piece floorboard design allows convenient access to the powertrain. These features make forklift maintenance more efficient.
• No tools radiator. The radiator compartment can be opened without tools, allowing quick and easy inspections.

Optional Upgrades

So far, everything we've discussed comes standard on the Hangcha RT35. However, this model can be upgraded with several popular features that improve safety, productivity, and operator comfort. All of the following features are available upgrades for the RT35:

• Full cabin
• Heater
• Front window
• Left/right mirrors
• Fire extinguisher
• Blue light
• Auxiliary Hydraulic Valve
• Rear working light
• 3 stage mast
• Specialty forks
• Specialty attachments
• Customized paint job
• Air conditioning
• Foam filled tires

Recommended For:

While the Hangcha RT35 is designed as a multipurpose forklift, it shines in rough terrain applications. All components of this truck are engineered around the ability to tackle terrain and inclement weather. As such, if your application requires your forklift to leave the road and strike its own path, the RT35 might be the forklift for you.

Not Recommended For:

If your truck will be working on exclusively paved roads, the RT35 is overkill. It will still perform admirably, but you'll be paying for many rough terrain features you won't need. Similarly, even with the environmentally friendly Kutoba engine, this forklift is not recommended for indoor applications.

Your Forklift Partner

The Hangcha RT35 rough terrain forklift is IN STOCK as of the publication date of this post. It's an outstanding option for anyone with off-road needs. Still, whatever your application, Mid Columbia Forklift has the expertise to find the right truck for you. Our team of experts will assess your needs and recommend the best equipment for your facility. To learn more about the Hangcha RT35 or any of our forklifts, contact us online or at one of our Washington State locations.

Auburn 253-854-5438
Pasco 509-547-7413
Wenatchee 509-663-9009
Yakima 509-457-5137

Further Reading
Hangcha: All Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered
New High Capacity Li-ion Forklifts from Hangcha
Hangcha FP18 LPG Cushion Tire Forklift Product Review