Common Forklift Malfunctions & What to Do

When your forklift isn't functioning correctly, this serves as a major blow to your productivity. Getting to the bottom of the problem and repairing the forklift becomes the main priority. Here are just some of the common malfunction scenarios you might be faced with and what you can do to resolve the issue.  

It's Only Moving in One Direction

If your forklift will only go in one direction, such as forward, but not in reverse, this is generally the result of a pulley system or gear failure. With regular use, these components can start to wear and somewhat deteriorate. The result is a forklift that doesn't smoothly transition from gear to gear, or not at all.

Resolving this issue involves the assistance of a professional, as the gears and the pulley system will likely be replaced. While you can still attempt to use the forklift, keep in mind that you will only cause greater wear, which results in even more repairs.

Its New Battery Not Working

Your previous forklift battery was starting to fail, so you purchased a replacement battery. You charged the battery and installed it inside the forklift, but it doesn't seem to be working. Often, this scenario is the result of an incorrectly sized battery. Make sure you understand that there isn't necessarily a one-size-fits-all battery solution.

Forklift batteries come in various configurations based on the required voltage, minimum weight requirements and cable positioning. Even if the battery fits, if it is not properly sized, it won't work. If you're unsure, take your existing battery with you when shopping for a new battery or purchase directly from the forklift manufacturer.

You Have Difficulty Steering

In order to easily and safely navigate through your space, the steering wheel needs to be able to move around easily. If the wheel often gets stuck or is harder to turn, a problem with the steering fluid is likely the culprit. The steering fluid can collect waste that creates somewhat of a sludge like material inside the fluid.

This buildup thickens the fluid, minimizing its effectiveness. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to resolve. To correct the problem, you can simply drain the existing fluid and replace it with clean fluid.

If you're presented with a forklift issue that you can't resolve on your own, it's time to call on a professional. Attempting to correct a problem that is too challenging for your skill level may result in greater damage so don't hesitate to rely on services like Crown Equipment.

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When is the last time you looked at new construction equipment? You might want to save money, which is why you haven't upgraded your equipment recently, but as the years goes on, you'll probably realize that you need to do something big to keep production at top levels and to ward off problems. Upgrading your heavy construction equipment should help improve safety as well as efficiency, which are both things that help improve your bottom line. Those investments can pave the way for a new chapter of your business. Check out these posts for more information. You might be surprised to see how much of a difference improving your construction processes can really make.

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