General Servicing Guidelines for Forklifts
Most forklift manufacturers have specific guidelines regarding how frequently a machine should be serviced, usually after a certain number of operating hours. These guidelines typically range from every 250 to 500 hours of use, depending on the brand and the type of forklift. For businesses using their forklift for 1-2 hours a day, your equipment will likely require servicing about twice a year. While this schedule may vary slightly depending on usage, our recommendation at Jofson is to service your forklift twice annually to ensure it remains in optimal condition.
6-Month Inspection Service
The first service you’ll need to consider is the 6-month inspection. This service is designed to check your forklift’s essential safety and wear components. Even if your forklift seems to be operating acceptable, regular checks are crucial to prevent any issues from escalating into more serious problems.
During this service, the following are typically checked or replaced:
- Safety Features: Ensure that safety devices, including lights, horns, and braking systems, function properly.
- Wear Components: Regularly inspect items that naturally wear down, such as the tyres, brakes, and forks.
- Lubrication and Adjustments: Ensure all moving parts are lubricated, and make any necessary adjustments to keep the machine running smoothly.
At this stage, no significant parts such as filters or oils are replaced; the focus is on keeping your forklift in good working order and ensuring all safety checks are up to standard.
12-Month Full Service
After 12 months of use, your forklift will require a more comprehensive full-service. This service is vital for maintaining the engine and other critical components that ensure the machine performs reliably and efficiently.
For engine-powered forklifts, we recommend the following:
- Changing Air, Oil, and Fuel Filters: Over time, these filters can get clogged with dirt and debris, reducing the efficiency of your forklift’s engine. Regular replacement is necessary to maintain engine performance and reduce the risk of breakdowns.
- Spark Plugs and Engine Oil (for LPG-powered Forklifts): At this point, the spark plugs and engine oil should be changed for forklifts that run on LPG. This is crucial to avoid misfiring, reduce emissions, and ensure smooth engine operation.
This 12-month service also includes checking other essential engine components, belts, and hoses to ensure everything is in working order.
Two-Year Service: Hydraulic System
For many forklifts, hydraulic oil filters are critical to maintaining the lift system’s performance. Over time, these filters can become clogged with contaminants, which could reduce the lifting operation’s effectiveness. We recommend that the hydraulic oil filters be changed every two years to ensure the system remains efficient and free from blockages.
Why Regular Servicing Matters
Regular servicing isn’t just about following manufacturer guidelines – it’s about keeping your forklift running safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. By adhering to the recommended service schedule, you can avoid costly repairs, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your forklift.
At Jofson, we understand that maintaining a forklift can sometimes seem daunting, but our team is here to make the process simple and hassle-free. Whether renting a forklift from us or owning your own, we offer expert servicing at our Birmingham and Manchester locations. Regular servicing ensures your forklift stays in top shape, helping you maximise your investment.