In order to help avoid the requirement for expensive forklift repairs, it is suggested to check the front end of your forklift frequently as part of your pre-shift and even daily inspection. By catching any problems ahead of time or as they arise, you can also help avoid damage to any type of cargo as well. The following covers several of the general guidelines on what specific things to check during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
It is essential to regularly check the forks because if they are worn out or cracked, they could potentially fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your forklift must immediately be removed from service until it is safe and fixed 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 kind of wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is one more sign that you must replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast should 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 located on every side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on each side roller. When the lubricating has been completed, lower and raise the mast and also tilt it forward and backward several times in order to make sure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings correctly.
Tilt Cylinders
Your daily inspection has 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 may be loss of fluid and cylinder drift. If there are any signs of damage or leaks, you might have to replace the entire cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
Check and make certain that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be certain to inspect the chains for signs of damage or wear utilizing a chain wear gauge. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain seems kinked or rusted. The chain rollers and the sheave bearings also need to be inspected for indications 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 front end parts or even the product. If you require help determining what precisely to inspect on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to perform regular fleet inspections, simply call your local lift truck dealer. Their skilled service technicians would help your perform PM or planned maintenance inspections according to your application requirements and scheduling.