The Most Expensive Forklift Repairs - And How To Prevent Them

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Let’s face it – forklifts are a big investment, and if your team isn’t careful the costs can easily eat up a lot of your operating budget. The best thing any company using commercial forklifts in Indiana can do is to prevent expenses from accruing in the first place.

Take a look at some of the most expensive forklift repairs that Indiana fleet managers encounter, and what you can do to prevent them from being necessary.

What Are The Most Expensive Forklift Repairs?

Though the causes and exact diagnoses of the repairs can vary, typically the most expensive repairs on your forklifts will boil down to electrical repairs, transmission repairs, and repairs on radiator and cooling systems.

Forklift Electrical Repairs

From the lights to the starter to the lift assembly and beyond, the electrical system affects nearly every part of your lift truck. Since the electrical system touches nearly every other system in the forklift, it’s incredibly important to do regular preventative maintenance. That way, you can avoid the huge mechanic bills from multiple system failures in your busiest forklfits.

Prevent the need for electrical repairs by:

  • Regularly inspecting fuses and replacing any worn fuses with fresh ones.
  • Check terminals and points of contact between the battery for corrosion or debris accumulation.
  • Treat your forklift batteries well. Water them at least once every 5-10 charges, and store them properly when not in use. Read our recommendations for proper forklift battery care here.

Forklift Transmission Repairs

Audible grinding from a forklift is a fleet manager’s worst nightmare, because transmission issues can easily cost a bundle. From the drive shaft to the lift assembly, the transmission powers the most important parts of any forklift, and takes the most abuse on a daily basis. A daily inspection checklist is your first defense against transmission issues, so be sure all operators are thoroughly trained and knowledgeable about any possible warning signs

Prevent the need for transmission repairs by:

  • Keeping the carrying loads under the max capacity and not overloading the forklift.
  • Maintaining proper fluid levels at all times.
  • Knowing your powertrain warranty. This might not prevent the need for repairs, but it can make sure your business isn’t absorbing the cost if something does go wrong.

Forklift Cooling & Radiator Repairs

Though not as common or as disastrous as other repairs, replacing a radiator or other parts of your forklift cooling system can easily rack up costs. Thankfully, there are some easy to identify warning signs and preventative steps your team can take to avoid those costs. Additionally, some businesses might be more susceptible to problems with forklift cooling systems, depending on the kind of work you’re doing.

Prevent the need for cooling system repairs by:

  • Keeping an eye out for any signs of leaks. This includes checking the radiator and lines for leaking coolant.
  • Maintaining proper fluid levels.
  • Letting your forklift cool down if it regularly overheats. Overheating in otherwise normal conditions is a common sign of a worn radiator.

Don’t Let Forklift Repairs Bankrupt You

When it comes to material handling equipment, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. Let Tynan Equipment Co. help you prevent the most disastrous forklift costs with regular maintenance, consultations, and tune-ups. Call us today at 317-597-4003 to talk about your needs.

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