In order to help avoid the need for costly lift truck repairs, it is suggested to check the front end of your forklift frequently as part of your pre-shift and even daily examination. By catching any problems in advance or as they arise, you can also help avoid damage to any loads too. The following includes some of the general guidelines on what specific stuff to inspect during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Frequently inspecting the forks is vital because if these are worn out or cracked, they might fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your forklift would have to immediately be removed from service until it is fixed and safe once more. Visually inspect 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 must replace the forks.
Mast
The mast should ideally tilt backward and forward while being able to move up and down. You might need 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 situated on each side. The lift bracket side rollers are a different lubrication point and there is also one on each side roller. When the lubricating has been completed, tilt it forward and backward and also raise and lower the mast several times in order to make sure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings correctly.
Tilt Cylinders
Uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage; hence, your inspection should involve checking for oil leaks and for damage. Whether the leaks are situated inside of the cylinder or are external, the end result could be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any signs of leaks or damage, you may need to replace the entire cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
Inspect and make certain that the mast chains are not stretching beyond their acceptable limits. Also be certain to inspect the chains for signs of wear or damage utilizing a chain wear gauge. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain looks kinked or rusted. Both the sheave bearings and the chain rollers also have to be inspected for indications of wear.
The mast lift chain would typically wear at the pin-to-link connections. You can experience chain failure if you discover wear. This can end up damaging front end components or even the product. If you do not have time on hand to perform frequent fleet inspections or if you need help determining what exactly to inspect on your lift trucks, just call your local lift truck dealer. Their trained service technicians will help your perform PM or planned maintenance inspections according to your application requirements and scheduling.