The level of maintenance a forklift receives is a crucial factor in its performance and longevity. Forklifts are among the most rugged and reliable of machines and are designed to operate in tough conditions. However, forklifts need to be regularly serviced; there is no substitute for good maintenance.

It ensures forklifts can perform at optimum levels; it can detect and rectify minor problems before they affect productivity, and will prolong a forklifts life.

This week’s blog will look at the importance of maintenance and will provide maintenance schedules and tips.

Maintenance Types

• Reactive
• Preventative
• Predictive
• Proactive
• Lubrication

Inspection Frequency

The first step in determining the frequency, in which a forklift needs to be inspected, is to make an engineering analysis of the equipment, considering the following points:

• Age, condition and value
• Severity of service
• Safety requirements
• Hours of operation
• Service record
• Susceptibility to wear, damage and getting out of adjustment
• Past maintenance work order

It is also helpful to conduct interviews with maintenance personal and operating supervisors.

Maintenance Schedule

A maintenance schedule should specify tasks to be performed daily, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually and annually.

Adherence to a maintenance program will help keep a forklift in good condition, prolong its useful life and minimise downtime and costs associated with major repairs.