Frequently Asked Questions about Forklift Repair & Maintenance
Below, we provide answers to some frequently asked questions about forklift repair and maintenance so that you can have an easier time keeping your lift in tip-top shape!
Forklifts need to adhere to a regular maintenance schedule. Ideally, you should have your forklifts professionally inspected at least once every three to six months to guarantee optimal and safe operations and lower the risk of downtime.
Signs that your forklift needs repair or servicing include:
- It’s leaking any type of fluid
- It gives the term “rough rider” a whole new meaning
- The hoses are cracked or damaged
- Slow acceleration means a tune-up may be in order
- Slow engine turnover, indicating tires are worn out and need to be replaced
- High emissions or unusual smells
- Some or all of the hydraulic functions are not working properly
- Any of the safety features are not working at all or working properly
- Breaks are making squealing noises, are slow to react, or completely locked
All of these issues pose potential safety problems for operators and other warehouse crew and should be addressed immediately.
Read more here: Signs Your Forklift Requires Service Or Maintenance
Regular forklift maintenance can help prevent unplanned downtime, which can impact your business’s productivity and profitability. Moreover, it can also help extend the forklift’s lifespan, reduce maintenance costs, and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Ultimately, the cost of forklift repair boils down to a few simple factors. First, the age and hours of operation make a big difference. The age of a forklift is measured by the number of operational hours it has logged. Older makes and models can be difficult to repair due to the fact that some parts may be harder to find or discontinued.
Other factors include the types of mechanical errors and parts that need to be repaired or replaced. Downtime, during which forklifts are out of commission, can also increase the cost of repair for your business. You have two options. You can either close up shop until your forklift is repaired or you can rent another one in the meantime to continue operations uninterrupted.
A forklift’s inner workings are complex and require intricate knowledge to repair and maintain. It’s highly recommended to engage the services of a professional forklift maintenance expert. Professionals have the necessary knowledge, training, and equipment to perform regular maintenance and repairs that can save you from long-term damage to the forklift.
Investing in a forklift maintenance program in Vaughan or Concord is the best way to reduce repair costs and reduce the frequency of repairs. As long as you take good care of your material handling equipment and get them professionally inspected on a regular basis, they should be in excellent working condition for an extended period of time.
Routine forklift maintenance ensures that potential forthcoming problems are identified and diagnosed quickly to prevent complete mechanical failure and minimize health and safety risks for operators. Older forklifts that have a lot of mileage and logged hours of operation will eventually need to be replaced depending on how often they’re used. At NovaLift Equipment Inc., our technicians will keep an eye out on potential mechanical problems that may be brewing and inform you immediately, so you can plan accordingly.
Maintaining proper fluid levels in your forklift, specifically hydraulic oil and coolant, is crucial for ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. To ensure proper levels of these fluids, it is important to check them regularly and top them up as needed. Refer to your forklift’s user manual for specific instructions and intervals for fluid maintenance.
To troubleshoot an error code, first, consult the forklift’s manual to understand the code’s meaning and fix the underlying issue. If the issue persists, check the sensors for any damage or malfunctioning. After fixing the problem, you need to reset the error code. This process varies between forklift models, so it’s important to refer to the manual.
Read more: Understanding Forklift Error Codes: A Troubleshooting Guide
Generally, a well-maintained forklift battery can last anywhere from five to seven years. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, such as reduced run time or excessive heat during charging. If you notice these signs, it may be time to replace your battery to avoid potential safety hazards or costly repairs down the line.
In the event of an emergency or breakdown, there are a few key steps you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. First, immediately stop the forklift and turn off the engine. Then, assess the situation and determine if it’s safe to exit the forklift. If it’s not safe to exit, remain inside and seek immediate assistance. If it is safe to exit, carefully exit the vehicle and secure the area to prevent any further accidents or injuries.
Yes, NovaLift Equipment Inc. offers emergency 24-hour onsite service for forklift repairs in Toronto. Don’t let a broken-down forklift cause downtime and lost productivity for your business. Our experienced technicians are available around the clock to diagnose and repair issues onsite, ensuring that your equipment is up and running as quickly as possible.
The best way to get your forklift repaired is to schedule an appointment with NovaLift Equipment Inc. Our qualified forklift technicians can perform thorough visual and hands-on inspections to identify issues that are undetectable to the untrained eye. From there, they can make the appropriate service recommendations and provide a forklift repair quote.
There are several eco-friendly options available for forklift repairs and maintenance, such as using of electric forklifts, which emit zero emissions and have lower energy consumption than gas-powered forklifts. Another option is to use bio-based oils and lubricants that are made from renewable resources instead of petroleum-based products. Regular maintenance and inspections of forklifts can also help identify issues early on, allowing for prompt repairs that prevent more significant environmental harm.
Winterizing your forklift involves various measures, including changing the oil and checking for any leaks or cracks in the coolant system. It is also important to verify the condition of your battery, as cold temperatures can cause it to lose power. Additionally, make sure that your vehicle is equipped with the appropriate tires to handle snowy or icy surfaces.
At NovaLift Equipment Inc., our experienced technicians are equipped to handle a wide range of repair needs, with both onsite and in-shop options available for your convenience. For those in need of onsite forklift repairs, our mobile services are a perfect solution, minimizing any downtime and ensuring the safety of your team and equipment.
