It is suggested to often check the front end of your forklift as part of your pre-shift or daily examination, in order to help avoid expensive lift truck repairs. By catching any problems ahead of time or as they occur, you can also help prevent damage to any kind of loads too. The following covers a few of the common guidelines on what particular stuff to inspect during regular inspections of your material handling fleet.
Forks
Regularly checking the forks is important because if these are cracked or worn out, they may fail without warning. Any kind of fork damage means that your forklift must instantly be removed from service until it is repaired and safe once more. Visually inspect your forks for any noticeable indications 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 need to replace the forks.
Mast
Ideally, the mast should tilt back and forward and be able to smoothly move down and up. 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 situated on each side. The lift bracket side rollers are another lubrication point and there is also one on each side roller. When the lubricating has been completed, raise and lower the mast and also tilt it backward and forward several times in order to ensure that the lubricant is worked correctly into the fittings.
Tilt Cylinders
Your daily inspection needs to include the checking for oil leaks and damage since an uncontrolled mast movement can be a result of oil leakage. Whether the leaks are external or are situated inside of the cylinder, the end result may be cylinder drift and loss of fluid. If there are any indications of leaks or damage, you might need to replace the whole cylinder assembly, or just the seals.
Chains
The mast chains need to be inspected to see if they are being stretched beyond their acceptable limits. In addition, check the chain wear guage or check the chains for signs of damage. If wear is present beyond 2 percent, replace the chain. Also replace it if the chain looks rusted or kinked. The chain rollers and the sheave bearings also need to be inspected for signs of wear.
The mast lift chain would usually wear at the pin-to-link connections. You could experience chain failure if you notice wear. This can end up damaging the product or front end parts. If you require help determining what exactly to inspect on your forklifts or if you do not have time on hand to carry out regular fleet inspections, just call your local forklift dealer. Their skilled service technicians will help your perform PM or planned maintenance inspections according to your scheduling and application requirements.