In order to help prevent the requirement for expensive lift truck repairs, it is suggested to inspect the front end of your forklift frequently as part of your daily and even pre-shift examination. By catching any problems in advance or as they occur, you can also help avoid damage to any cargo 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 vital to regularly inspect the forks because if they are worn out or cracked, they could probably fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your lift truck would have to immediately be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once more. Visually check your forks for any noticeable indications of damage or wear. If the cracks run deeper than on the surface, replace them. Any wear on the forks beyond 10 percent is another indication that you need to replace the forks.
Mast
The mast must ideally tilt forward and backward while being able to move up and down. You may have to grease the mast strip sliding surfaces and fittings if you find that the sliding surfaces are binding. On the inner mast there is a fitting located on each side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on every 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 ensure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings correctly.
Tilt Cylinders
Uncontrolled mast movement could be caused by oil leakage; therefore, your inspection should include inspecting for oil leaks and for damage. Whether the leaks are external or are situated inside of the cylinder, the end result could 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
Inspect and make certain that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be sure to check the chains for indications of wear or damage using a chain wear gauge. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain looks rusted or kinked. Both the sheave bearings and the chain rollers also have to be inspected for indications of wear.
The mast lift chain would normally wear at the pin-to-link connections. You could experience chain failure if you notice wear. This could end up damaging the product or front end components. If you need help determining what exactly to check on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to carry out regular fleet inspections, simply contact your local lift truck dealer. Their skilled service technicians would help your perform PM or planned maintenance inspections according to your scheduling and application requirements.