Regardless whether you have a new forklift fleet or second-hand forklifts, your machine needs to be maintained to guarantee safety and productivity. Careless forklift operation can result in additional expenses due to damage and abuse. There are simple ways to identify operator practices that indirectly contribute to expenses related to the incorrect operation of Caterpillar forklifts or lift trucks. The following tips would truly help you reduce operating costs while ensuring a long life for your machinery.
Causes Of Facility and Forklift Damage
Incorrect Forklifts. Selecting the right lift truck equipment for the application is essential for efficient and safe forklift performance. One of the most common mistakes is utilizing the wrong type of forklift or alternatives for the particular task. Machines can suffer premature wear and tear. Components could be subject to failure. Make certain that the lift truck is fitted with the correct tires and that they are not worn.
Improper Forklift Operating Practices. Improper forklift operating practices are a common cause of impact damage. Damage to product, machine or facilities can take place while navigating around products. A congested work place lends itself to impacts. For example, pushing pallets, called "Bulldozing", can damage the transmission and wear tires.
Unsafe Forklift Lifting and Speeding. Wrong lifting practices could cause personal injury and equipment damage. Common errors consist of lifting too high and traveling too fast. A load that is too heavy can cause the forklift to tip over. The driver must make sure that the forks are level.
Poor Floor Conditions. The most common cause of forklift damage are debris and obstructions on the floor. If wood, twine, plastic or banding gets into the engine compartment, the cooling system could be compromised. The result could be engine failure or even fire.
Axle or radiator damage is one more common consequence of driving over debris.
![]() |
![]() |