In order to help avoid the need for costly forklift repairs, it is suggested to check the front end of your forklift regularly as part of your daily and even pre-shift inspection. By catching any problems in advance or as they happen, you could also help prevent damage to any cargo as well. The following includes some of the general guidelines on what specific things to check during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
It is important to frequently inspect the forks because if they are cracked or worn out, they could potentially fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your lift truck must instantly be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once more. Visually inspect your forks for any noticeable signs 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 another indication that you must replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast must tilt back and forward and be able to smoothly move up and down. 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 each side. The lift bracket side rollers are a different lubrication point and there is also one on each side roller. Once the lubricating has been done, 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
Uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage; therefore, your inspection must involve inspecting for damage and for oil leaks. Whether the leaks are external or are located inside of the cylinder, the end result can be loss of fluid and cylinder drift. If there are any signs of leaks or damage, you might have to replace just the seals or the whole cylinder assembly.
Chains
Check and make sure that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be sure to check the chains for signs 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. The chain rollers and the sheave bearings must also be checked 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 the product or front end parts. If you need help determining what precisely to check on your lift trucks or if you do not have time on hand to carry out regular fleet inspections, simply call your local lift truck dealer. Their skilled service technicians would help your perform planned maintenance or PM checks based on your application requirements and scheduling.