It is recommended to often check the front end of your forklift as part of your daily or pre-shift inspection, in order to help prevent expensive forklift repairs. By catching any problems as they arise or ahead of time, you can also help prevent damage to any cargo too. The following includes a few of the general guidelines on what particular things to check during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Frequently checking the forks is key because if these are worn out or cracked, they might fail without warning. Any type of fork damage means that your forklift must immediately be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once again. Visually check your forks for any noticeable indications of wear or damage. If the cracks run deeper than on the surface, replace them. Any type of wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is another sign that you must replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast must tilt back and forward and be able to smoothly move down and up. If you find that the sliding surfaces are binding, you might need to grease the mast strip sliding surfaces as well as their fittings. On the inner mast there is a fitting situated on every side. The lift bracket side rollers are a different lubrication point and there is also one on every side roller. When the lubricating has been completed, lower and raise the mast and also tilt it backward and forward a few times in order to ensure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings properly.
Tilt Cylinders
Your daily inspection needs to include the checking for damage and oil leaks as an uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage. Whether the leaks are external or are located inside of the cylinder, the end result could be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any signs of damage or leaks, you may need to replace the whole cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
Check and make certain that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be sure to inspect the chains for indications of damage or wear utilizing a chain wear gauge. If there is wear beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain appears rusted or kinked. Both the chain rollers and the sheave bearings must also be inspected for indications of wear.
Normally, mast lift chains wear at the pin-to-link connections. If you notice wear, you can experience chain failure. This could end up damaging front end parts or even the product. If you need help determining what exactly to inspect on your lift trucks or if you do not have time on hand to perform frequent fleet inspections, simply contact your local lift truck dealer. Their trained service technicians will help your perform planned maintenance or PM checks based on your application requirements and scheduling.