Forklifts are some of the most important machinery for your operation. By identifying issues with your forklift early, you can avoid costly repairs and time-draining delays. 

Here at Papé Material Handling, we want to ensure your equipment is in tip-top shape, extending the life and condition of your forklifts all while enhancing the safety of your operation.

Routine Inspections

In addition to regularly scheduled maintenance, as a warehouse manager, you’ll want your forklift operators to do daily checks on the forklifts. We put together a handy forklift maintenance checklist that’s aligned with OSHA’s guidelines and recommendations; be sure to reference it as a part of your routine maintenance.

Common Forklift Issues

#1 Faulty Steering

If your steering isn’t working properly, this could be due to a number of different issues, such as low levels of transmission fluids. Check the levels and top off if needed. Faulty steering may also be attributed to worn out gears, which requires more professional attention, so be sure to reach out to a professional like Papé Material Handling for assistance.

#2 Worn Out Tires

Forklift tires are under the pressure of very heavy loads and a lot of wear and tear. Check tire pressure and the condition of tires frequently, getting them replaced when necessary.

#3 Mast/Lifting Problems 

This is a common issue we see in forklifts. The mast is the lifting mechanism of the forklift, so if the forklift is not rising or lowering correctly, this may be a sign that there is an issue with the hydraulic system. Be sure to investigate further, repairing the cylinder and replacing any faulty forklift parts, such as the oil filter or oil seals.

#5 Problems Starting

Is your forklift having trouble starting? This is usually an easier issue to fix. You’ll want to first check the level of the battery, and then test the brakes and lights to make sure that they are working. Often, if they don’t, the issue is with the battery. Take a look at these step-by-step troubleshooting ideas, and be sure to reach out to a specialist at Papé so we can help you get to the root cause.

#6 Overheating 

This is another common issue. Some possible causes include an issue with the radiator or radiator screens, low coolant, out of adjustment inching pedals, broken fan blades, or loose fan belts. The most common cause is a broken radiator or radiator blockage.

Get Your Forklift Serviced

Regular daily checks and routine maintenance on your forklift ensure that problems don’t become costly disasters. Here at Papé Material Handling, we have a wonderful team of expertly trained and experienced service technicians available to check and fix any possible issues with your forklift. Reach out to us today to ask us about your service options.