In order to help prevent the requirement for expensive forklift repairs, it is suggested to check the front end of your forklift frequently as part of your daily and even pre-shift examination. By catching any problems as they occur or ahead of time, you can also help prevent damage to any type of loads as well. The following covers a few of the common guidelines on what specific stuff to inspect during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Regularly inspecting the forks is key because if these are worn out or cracked, they may fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your lift truck must immediately be removed from service until it is safe and fixed once more. Visually check your forks for any visible signs of damage or wear. If the cracks run deeper than on the surface, replace them. Any wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is one more indication that you must replace the forks.
Mast
The mast should ideally tilt forward and backward while being able to move up and down. You may need to lubricate the mast strip sliding surfaces and fittings if you find that the sliding surfaces are binding. On the inner mast there is a fitting situated on each side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on each side roller. Once the lubricating has been done, raise and lower the mast and also tilt it backward and forward several times in order to ensure that the lubricant is worked properly into the fittings.
Tilt Cylinders
Your daily check has to involve the checking for oil leaks and damage since an uncontrolled mast movement could be a result of oil leakage. Whether the leaks are situated inside of the cylinder or are external, the end result may be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any indications of leaks or damage, you might have to replace just the seals or the entire cylinder assembly.
Chains
The mast chains have to be checked to see if they are being stretched beyond their acceptable limits. Also, check the chain wear guage or check the chains for indications of damage. If there is wear beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain appears rusted or kinked. The sheave bearings and the chain rollers also have to be inspected for signs of wear.
The mast lift chain would usually wear at the pin-to-link connections. You can experience chain failure if you discover wear. This can end up damaging the product or front end components. If you need help determining what exactly to inspect on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to perform frequent fleet inspections, just contact your local lift truck dealer. Their skilled service technicians will help your perform PM or planned maintenance checks based on your scheduling and application requirements.