In order to help avoid the need for costly forklift repairs, it is recommended to check the front end of your forklift regularly as part of your pre-shift and even daily inspection. By catching any problems ahead of time or as they occur, you can also help prevent damage to any loads as well. The following includes some of the common guidelines on what specific stuff to check during regular inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
It is important to regularly inspect the forks because if they are worn out or cracked, they could probably fail without warning. Any type of fork damage means that your forklift should instantly be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once again. Visually check your forks for any noticeable signs of wear or damage. 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 need to replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast should tilt forward and back and be able to smoothly move up and down. If you find that the sliding surfaces are binding, you may need to lubricate 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. Once the lubricating has been done, raise and lower the mast and also tilt it forward and backward a few times in order to guarantee that the lubricant is worked correctly into the fittings.
Tilt Cylinders
Uncontrolled mast movement could be a result of oil leakage; therefore, your inspection must involve checking for damage and for oil leaks. Whether the leaks are situated inside of the cylinder or are external, the end result can be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any indications of leaks or damage, you may have to replace the entire cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
The mast chains have to be inspected to see if they are being stretched beyond their acceptable limits. Additionally, inspect the chain wear guage or check the chains for indications of damage. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain seems rusted or kinked. Both the sheave bearings and the chain rollers should also be inspected for signs of wear.
Typically, mast lift chains wear at the pin-to-link connections. If you discover wear, you can experience chain failure. This could end up damaging front end components 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 carry out frequent fleet inspections, simply call your local forklift dealer. Their trained service technicians would help your perform planned maintenance or PM inspections according to your scheduling and application requirements.