Managing a warehouse or other facility within a logistics chain generally means operating and maintaining a fleet of forklifts. These machines are the lifeblood behind many logistics operations. The demands placed on them day after day mean that breakdowns on even the most reliable forklifts are inevitable and regular maintenance is vital to keeping your fleet in good working condition. If you maintain your fleet onsite, then parts purchases will be a regular part of your operations. These are the most common forklift parts that you will be replacing, both for unexpected repairs and as part of your routine maintenance plan.
Batteries
Forklift batteries can be expensive to purchase and replace. The average battery on a forklift will last about five years, making replacement a regular part of any maintenance plan. Since batteries are so costly to replace, however, it pays to care for them properly so that they last as long as possible. As a general rule, this means checking the battery's water levels several times per month and inspecting and cleaning the terminals at least once per month. Likewise, good charging hygiene is important. Avoid recharging batteries that still have most of their energy left and avoid charging a battery multiple times in one day if possible.
Chains
The chain on a forklift takes perhaps more abuse than any other part of the machine. This single component is the key that allows your forklift to actually lift things, and it must endure the brunt of those heavy loads day after day. Since the chain is literally responsible for keeping the forklift's loads off of the ground, a worn chain is a safety issue as well as a functional one. Most forklift chains last about four years, but chains on every forklift should be inspected on a daily basis for obvious signs of wear. Obvious issues with lifting should be cause for taking a forklift off of the floor immediately so the problem can be evaluated.
Tires
The tires on a forklift serve the same role as the tires on any other vehicle, and replacing them when they become worn is vitally important to the safety of your operators. As with road vehicles, the life of your fleet's tires will depend largely on how they are used and the conditions they are operated in. If your forklifts primarily operate on well-maintained warehouse floors, then their tires will likely last longer than forklifts that are operated outdoors on rough surfaces. Selecting the right tires for your environment is key to making them last as long as possible. As with chains, tires should be inspected at least once per day and machines with obvious tire issues should be removed from service immediately.
Cooling Systems
Just as with cars, your forklift's engine needs to stay cool to operate efficiently. Since forklifts are often asked to perform serious work, cooling is especially important. Inspection of your forklift fleet's cooling systems should be a part of your regular maintenance schedule. These inspections should include visual checks of hoses and the radiators as well as system pressure checks. Cooling system problems should never be ignored since a failed cooling system can easily result in serious damage to the engine block itself.
