Lift Truck Maintenance: Why Won’t My Forklift Start?

Too often, operators are in such a hurry that they neglect to check certain things on their trucks. Those things get worse and worse, until one day the forklift just quits working. If your forklift fails to start one morning, it could be because of any of the following reasons.

Low battery charge. Check that the battery charge. Were the lights left on? Is it properly hooked into the forklift? Look for corrosion on the battery or terminals that may prevent a good charge.

Debris build-up. Dust and other debris on the warehouse floor can get sucked up into the forklift affecting airflow. When airflow is clogged, fans don’t spin properly and the forklift overheats.

Overheating. Low coolant levels can result in overheating and, in some cases, will prevent the forklift from running or starting. If coolant levels are good, check the thermostat.

Hydraulic leaks. Low levels of hydraulic fluid can limit the machine’s ability to perform. Many things can cause a hydraulic leak: impacts, a blown hose, even over-lifting the forklift’s capacity.

These are just a few of the common problems. Like any other vehicle, a forklift needs regular maintenance and parts replacement in order to run efficiently. The good news is all of the above problems are preventable! If you have questions or would like to set up a maintenance appointment, give the pros at Andersen Material Handling a call.