In order to help avoid the need for costly lift truck repairs, it is recommended to check the front end of your forklift regularly as part of your daily and even pre-shift inspection. By catching any problems in advance or as they occur, you can also help prevent damage to any loads as well. The following includes some of the general guidelines on what specific stuff to inspect during frequent inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Regularly inspecting the forks is important because if these are worn out or cracked, they may fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your lift truck should immediately be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once again. Visually check 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 another indication that you have to replace the forks.
Mast
The mast should ideally tilt backward and forward while being able to move up and down. You might 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 each side roller. Once the lubricating has been completed, raise and lower the mast and also tilt it forward and backward several times in order to ensure that the lubricant is worked into the fittings properly.
Tilt Cylinders
Uncontrolled mast movement can be caused by oil leakage; therefore, your inspection must involve inspecting for damage and for oil leaks. Whether the leaks are external or are located inside of the cylinder, the end result could be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any signs of damage or leaks, you might need to replace just the seals or the entire cylinder assembly.
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 looks kinked or rusted. The sheave bearings and the chain rollers must also be inspected for indications of wear.
Normally, mast lift chains wear at the pin-to-link connections. If you discover wear, you could experience chain failure. This can end up damaging front end parts or even the product. If you need help determining what precisely to inspect on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to carry out regular fleet inspections, just call your local lift truck dealer. Their trained service technicians will help your perform planned maintenance or PM checks according to your scheduling and application needs.