What should you pay attention to when buying a used forklift?
2 Answers
Here are the things to pay attention to when buying a used forklift: Observe the gap between the mast of the forklift: First, pay attention to the observation. Stand directly in front of the used forklift and carefully check if the gap between the upper and lower parts of the mast is consistent. If they are not the same, it proves that the forklift has been overloaded for a long time or has been involved in an accident. Check the steering system: Squat down and inspect the steering system at the rear of the used forklift to see if it matches the description provided by the seller. There are two types of steering systems: mechanical and hydraulic. Hydraulic steering is further divided into full hydraulic and mechanical-hydraulic hybrid. Full hydraulic is commonly known as the horizontal cylinder, while mechanical is referred to as the triple plate. Additionally, check all the connecting parts of the used forklift for significant gaps. If the gaps are large, it indicates high usage of the forklift, and there may be substantial repair costs after purchase. Listen to the engine sound: Start the used forklift and listen for any obvious tapping sounds from the engine. Check if the engine runs smoothly. After revving the engine a few times, release the throttle and observe if the engine responds promptly.
I've bought used forklifts several times. Coming from a mechanic background, I pay special attention to technical aspects. First, check the engine condition - start it up and listen for any abnormal noises or vibrations that might indicate wear issues. Then inspect the hydraulic system - see if the fork lifting speed is smooth and check for oil leaks, as hydraulic pump repairs can be costly. For electric forklifts, measure the battery voltage and remaining lifespan - you don't want to replace it immediately after purchase. Examine tire wear - overly worn tires increase slipping risks. Test all safety features thoroughly, including brakes and warning buzzers - I once encountered a used forklift with faulty brakes that posed serious tipping hazards. Always review maintenance records - avoid units without proper documentation as repairs can become problematic. Finally, take it for a test drive to assess operational smoothness. Proper inspection ensures longer forklift service life.