How to Prepare a Forklift for Seasonal Operation

The forklift truck is one of the most important machines for warehouses, production and construction work. It can be used to transport goods quickly, thereby increasing the efficiency of the work process. However, it is necessary to prepare the forklift truck for the season in order to ensure trouble-free operation.

The change from cold to warm and vice versa plays an important role in ensuring the efficient operation of equipment. Timely and competent maintenance helps to avoid unforeseen breakdowns and loss of productivity. Below we will tell you what seasonal maintenance involves and why it is important.

Why it is important to prepare your forklift truck for the changing seasons

As the seasons change, the temperature and humidity of the air change, which has a direct impact on forklift truck operation, maintenance and technical condition. In cold weather, lubricants thicken, batteries lose charge, tyres wear out prematurely and key machine components become cold.

In summer, engine overheating, accelerated brake system wear and reduced cooling system efficiency can occur. Failure to maintain your forklift truck seasonally can lead to breakdowns during operation and work stoppages. Moreover, it can lead to unforeseen and costly repairs.

Main stages of preparation

In order for forklift seasonal preparation to be successful, all key steps must be completed, including the following:

1. Check the condition of the battery. In cold weather, its capacity decreases, so check the electrolyte level and oxidation. In hot weather it is prone to overheating.
2. Diagnostics and maintenance of loader components. Engine, brake system, transmission, electrics. If necessary, replacement of consumables - fasteners, filters, wiring and other elements.
3. Check tyres. Tyres are replaced with suitable tyres: better grip in winter and tyres resistant to overheating in summer.
4. Cooling and heating systems. Proper cooling is important in summer and heating of the cab and engine in winter.
5. Hydraulics. In winter, oils thicken, which increases the load on the pump, so hoses and seals are checked.

In this way, the forklift truck will demonstrate stable and efficient operation without malfunctions when it passes all the test phases during the off-season.

Peculiarities of operation in winter and summer

To ensure efficient work in warehouses and production facilities, it is important to observe the rules of seasonal operation of special equipment. In winter, the loader must be warmed up before starting work to facilitate the operation of the engine and hydraulic system. When not in use, the equipment should be under a canopy to avoid the negative impact of the environment - temperature and precipitation. It is necessary to regularly clear the loader of snow and ice to keep the elements mobile and prevent short circuits in the electrical system. Overheating can occur in summer, so it is important to check the oil level, the condition of the cooling system and filters. It is not recommended to operate the loader in direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Tips for extending the life of your forklift truck

It is essential to ensure that your forklift truck is properly maintained to prolong its life and maintain high productivity. This will require:

• carry out maintenance in a timely manner;
• Install only quality spare parts during repairs and maintenance;
• train operators to know the rules of seasonal operation;
• ensure proper storage of forklift trucks - avoid exposure to natural factors: sun, temperature, humidity, precipitation and icing;
• Maintain a maintenance log for each loader to monitor maintenance history.

All of these measures will help extend the life of your forklift truck and ensure that it operates efficiently at all times of the year.