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Parts You Need to Maintain Your Forklift

Jun. 1 2022 Maintenance By KMC Forklift

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Forklifts are an essential tool for many businesses, so it’s important to keep them running smoothly. Routine maintenance is a great way to keep your forklift operating well, but it’s also helpful to have a good understanding of how it works! Knowing the anatomy and keeping the right parts on hand can increase productivity and reduce your downtime. 

General Anatomy

There are electric, diesel, gasoline, and propane forklifts, but the general anatomy is the same across all types. Below are the main components of these incredible machines. 

  1. The cab is the central part of the lift that contains the steering wheel, controls, guages, and brake and gas pedals. You will also find most of the safety features in the cab.
  2. The carriage mounts forks to the mast and helps support the forklift. 
  3. The mast lifts and lowers the load being transported by the forklift. 
  4. The load backrest keeps the load from coming toward the operator.
  5. The forks are attached to the carriage and are the extensions that support the load. 
  6. The overhead guard is the frame surrounding the cab. It protects the operator in case a load were to fall. 
  7. There are two types of tires; drive and steer. The steer tires direct the forklift while the driver tires move the machine forward or backward.
  8. The counterweight is at the back of the forklift and helps prevent the machine from tipping.
  9. The tilt cylinder controls the amount of forward and backward tilt of the mast, forks, and carriage.
  10. The hydraulic lift cylinder controls the amount of vertical lift of the mast, forks, and carriage.

Each part that makes up a forklift is critical for functionality and safety. It’s important to maintain each component!

Building Your Backstock

Now that you have an idea of what parts make up a forklift, you can build your own stock of parts to reduce any downtime. Moving parts will eventually wear out after use, so if your forklift gets used frequently, you’ll want the option to make quick repairs. 

You should keep a small inventory of cylinders, bolts, fluids, and tires that are specifically made for your forklift model. Having your own selection of parts will expedite the repair process and keep your work day going smoothly. 

Building Your Tool Kit

When you have the right parts, you also need the right tools. Your toolbox should include wrenches, guages, jumper cables, grease, screwdrivers, and the owner’s manual! You want to have access to tools that complement your machine the best. For example, if your equipment was manufactured in the United States you’ll need standard tools, not metric. 

Our team at KMC Forklift would love to help you maintain your forklift and keep your parts inventory stocked. Visit us in Bryan, TX, where we proudly serve Caldwell, College Station, and Hearne.