When you’re investing in a forklift, understanding its components is key to ensuring longevity and efficiency. Forklift chains are among the most critical parts, responsible for lifting heavy loads safely. However, like any mechanical part, chains can develop problems over time. Identifying these issues early helps maintain peak performance and protect investment.
Chain Wear and Elongation
Forklift chains endure a lot of pressure during lifting and lowering. Over time, this causes wear on the pins and bushing, reading to elongation (often mistaken for “stretch”). Elongation reduces load capacity and compromises safety.
How to Identify
- Use a chain wear gauge to measure elongation.
- Chains should be replaced if they elongate beyond 3% of their original length.
When purchasing a forklift, ensure it comes with high-quality chains designed for durability under heavy use.
Rust and Corrosion
Forklifts operating in humid or corrosive environments are at risk of chain rust. Rust weakens the chain, making it prone to failure.
What to Look For
- Visible reddish-brown rust on chain links.
- Chain stiffness or grinding during operation.
Tip: After purchasing your forklift, store and operate it in dry, clean environments whenever possible.
Poor Lubrication
Lack of proper lubrication is a leading cause of forklift chain wear. Without lubrication, friction between chain components increases, accelerating wear and reducing efficiency.
Signs of Poor Lubrication
- Chains appear dry, stiff or noisy during operation.
- Uneven wear on chain links and pins.
Using high-quality lubrications regularly can extend chain life and keep your forklift running smoothly.
Misalignment
Misaligned chains cause uneven tension and premature wear. This often occurs if the forklift mast or sprockets are out of alignment.
How to Spot Misalignment
- Uneven wear patterns on the chain.
- Chains slip or feel jerky during lifting.
Forklifts purchased from trusted suppliers such as Trucks Direct are built to the highest standards. We ensure components are properly aligned for smooth operation.
Fatigue Cracks
Over time, repeated lifting can cause tiny fatigue cracks in forklift chains. Left unchecked, these cracks can expand, leading to sudden and dangerous chain failure.
What to Watch For
- Visual cracks or fractures on chain links.
- Frequent inspections revealing hidden damage.
By catching fatigue cracks early through regular inspections, you can prevent costly downtime. This ensures your forklift operates safely and reliably for years to come.
Why Does Proper Chain Maintenance Matter?
While forklifts are built to handle tough jobs, ignoring chain problems can lead to costly downtime, safety risks or expensive repairs. Whether you’re buying your first forklift or upgrading your fleet, understanding these common issues ensures you make an informed decision.
Explore Quality Forklifts at Trucks Direct
At Trucks Direct, we specialise in providing high-quality forklifts which are reliable, efficient and built to last. When you purchase from us, you’re investing in equipment designed for the best performance.
Ready to find your next forklift? Explore our full range of forklifts and experience the Trucks Direct difference. Whether you’re upgrading or adding to your fleet, we have the right forklift for you.