Buying a second-hand forklift can be a very smart way to save money while still getting the heavy lifting done in your workplace. However, you must be careful because a used machine might have hidden problems that could lead to expensive repairs or safety risks if they are not found early. This article will help you through the steps to check before you spend your money before purchasing a used forklift for your business.
1. Check the Hour Meter and Service History
The hour metre on a forklift is like the odometer on a car, and it tells you exactly how many hours the engine or motor has been running. Look for a machine that has a low number of hours relative to its age, as this usually means it has plenty of life left in it. It is also very important to ask for the service records to see if the previous owner took good care of the equipment with regular oil changes and safety checks.
2. Inspect the Mast and Lifting Chains
The mast is the vertical part of the used forklifts for sale that does the heavy lifting, so it needs to be straight and strong. Check the chains for any signs of rust or stretching, as a weak chain can be very dangerous when you are lifting a heavy load. Don’t forget that it is a good idea to watch the mast while it moves up and down to make sure it travels smoothly without any jerking or strange noises.
3. Examine the Engine or Battery Condition
If you are buying a gas or diesel forklift, you should start the engine and listen for any knocking sounds or check if there is heavy smoke coming from the exhaust. You should also look for oil leaks around the engine block and check that the coolant is clean and at the right level for the machine. For electric forklifts, the battery is the most expensive part, so check for any white powder on the terminals.
4. Look at the Tyres and Steering System
Tyres on a forklift do not have a traditional suspension, so if they are badly worn or have chunks missing, the ride will be very bumpy and hard on the driver. Check if the tyres are “cushion” or “pneumatic” and see if they have tread left to grip the floor of your warehouse safely. While the machine is running, turn the steering wheel all the way from left to right to make sure it feels firm and responds quickly.
5. Test the Brakes and Safety Features
Safety is the most important thing in any warehouse, so you must test the brakes to make sure the forklift stops quickly, even when it is carrying a load. Evaluate the parking brake to ensure it can hold the machine on a ramp without it rolling away and causing an accident. Make sure the horn is loud, the lights are bright, and the reversing alarm is working so that other workers can hear the forklift coming.
6. Search for Fluid Leaks and Cracks
Hydraulic fluid, oil, and fuel leaks are common in older machines, but they can be a fire hazard or lead to the forklift failing during a busy shift. Look at the hoses and the connections for any signs of wetness or dripping fluid while the forklift is running under pressure. Check the forks themselves for any deep cracks or if they have been bent out of shape by trying to lift loads that were too heavy.
7. Perform a Functional Test Drive
A test drive is the best way to see if the forklift is comfortable to drive and if all the controls are easy for your team to use daily. Try lifting a pallet to the maximum height and then tilting the mast forward and backwards to make sure everything feels solid and safe. Pay attention to how the transmission shifts between forward and reverse, as it should be smooth without any loud grinding from the gears.
Making a Wise Investment
Purchasing a used forklift can provide your business with great value, provided you take the time to inspect every part of the machine before you buy it. By checking the history, the mast, the engine, and the features, you can avoid the traps that come with second-hand equipment. With a bit of patience and a thorough check, you can get the lifting power you need while keeping your budget under control.
