Forklift Servicing: How Regularly Should it be Done?
Forklift servicing is important to maintain productivity, ensure safety and avoid costly downtime. Like cars, regular forklift servicing keeps your equipment operating efficiently by identifying potential issues before they become serious. Scheduled servicing and basic routine maintenance significantly extend your forklift’s lifespan.
Why Regular Forklift Servicing Matters
Regular forklift servicing is important because it helps detect common issues such as worn tyres, damaged suspension components or hydraulic system leaks early. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule is vital especially if you’ve purchased a second-hand forklift.
Essential Daily Forklift Maintenance Checklist
Daily checks help maintain forklift safety and operational effectiveness between scheduled servicing. Your forklift daily checklist should include:
- Tyre Pressure and Condition: Ensures stability, control and safety
- Hoses and Fluid Levels: Prevents leaks and operational failures
- Brake Functionality: Regular checks maintain safe stopping distances
- Forks and Overhead Guards: Daily inspections maintain structural integrity and protect operators
Implementing these daily checks reduces the likelihood of accidents and major breakdowns, improving overall operational efficiency.
Tyre Maintenance
Forklift tyres directly affect equipment stability, manoeuvrability and safety. Poorly maintained tyres not only compromise forklift control but can also increase stopping distances, leading to safety hazards.
Including weekly tyre inspections in your maintenance routine ensures timely detection of wear or damage, safeguarding your forklift and operators.
Keep Your Forklift Clean
A simple yet vital part of forklift maintenance is regular cleaning. Keeping your forklift clean facilitates quick identification of hidden issues and makes repairs and inspections easier. Regular cleaning supports overall forklift safety, efficiency and longevity.
Addressing Forklift Issues Quickly
Even with regular maintenance, unexpected issues can occur due to wear and tear. Immediate action when problems arise is essential. Ignoring small issues such as soft brakes or fluid leaks can escalate into dangerous situations or costly repairs.
Repair or Replace? Making the Right Choice
Occasionally, forklift repairs can exceed the value of the forklift itself. Before investing in significant repairs, consider whether replacing the forklift may be cost-effective. At Trucks Direct, we offer a range of high-quality, affordable used forklifts to suit your business needs.
Contact our expert team for professional guidance and affordable forklift options tailored to your requirements