Forklift Lifting Capacity Modification
If you are considering making a forklift lifting capacity modification, here are some things to consider. Legally, any forklift lifting capacity modification needs to be approved by the forklift manufacturer.. Every forklift...
If you are considering making a forklift lifting capacity modification, here are some things to consider. Click on the links to learn more.
1. Legally, any forklift lifting capacity modification needs to be approved by the forklift manufacturer. Learn more.
2. Every forklift is designed with a specific lifting capacity and exceeding that capacity can have dangerous consequences. Learn more.
3. Safe alternatives to making forklift lifting capacity modifications include having a professional do the modification according to the manufacturer's guidelines, renting equipment that is designed to handle the capacity that you need or purchasing equipment that is designed for higher capacities. Learn more.
Learn about the restrictions surrounding forklift lifting capacity modification
Forklift Lifting Capacity Modification: What You Need to Know
1. Legally any forklift Lifting Capacity Modification Needs to Be Approved by the Forklift Manufacturer
According to Ontario's Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.S.O, section 7, if you want to make any forklift lifting capacity modifications, it needs to be approved by your forklift's manufacturer.
Any alteration that you make to your forklift that could affect its rated capacity or compromise the safety of your operators has to be approved by the manufacturer in advance.
If you are unsure about whether or not an alteration is okay or not, it is best to consult with a qualified forklift truck professional who can help you make that decision. In addition, any modification that you make needs to be done by a qualified engineer.
Any forklift lifting capacity modification needs to be done by a qualified professional
2. Every forklift is designed with a specific lifting capacity and exceeding that capacity can have dangerous consequences
Forklifts are designed with a maximum lifting capacity and if you attempt to lift a load that is heavier than the maximum amount, you could have serious and even fatal consequences. Learn more about forklift safety in our free downloadable eBook.
Dangers of Modifying Forks:
For example, an inexperienced mechanic might try to modify the forks on a forklift by adding load-bearing chains to the tips so that they can handle heavier loads. If they drill holes through the fork tips to hold the chains, then the structural integrity of the forks will be permanently compromised.
This is because drilling a hole removes the load-bearing material of the fork. Having holes drilled in your forks will modify your forklift’s lifting capacity, however, it will be difficult to determine what that capacity actually is now.
It’s not a good idea to modify the forks on your forklift
Dangers of Modifying the counterweight:
Another dangerous forklift lifting capacity modification that is sometimes attempted is to try and increase the size of the forklift's counterweight so that it can lift more without tipping over.
This too is a dangerous modification because the counterweight plays a very important role in keeping your forklift stable. If you change the weight or the size of your counterweight, then you will also be altering the center of gravity of your forklift.
This means that making a simple turn or doing a low lift could shift the center of gravity and cause your forklift to easily tip over endangering your driver, any workers in the vicinity and your load.
Trying to increase your forklift’s counterweight can make it dangerously unstable
3. Alternatives to Making Forklift Lifting Capacity Modifications
Contact a Professional:
Instead of modifying your existing equipment and risking the safety of your workers, contact a professional who could advise you about which forklift attachments and accessories can safely be added to your current equipment. It is also a good idea to have a professional do the installation for you.
Rent Equipment:
If you only need to have a modification for a one-time load or for a short period, then consider renting the equipment you need instead of modifying your current equipment. You can rent material handling equipment that is designed for the lifting that you need for both short and longer-term periods.
For example, Wayco offers daily, weekly, and monthly contracts for renting a vast array of forklifts for both indoor and outdoor use with lifting capacities from 3,000 to 80,000 lbs, at highly competitive rates. We'll even deliver it to your location and offer you our rent-to-own program if you decide that you need the equipment permanently.
You can rent equipment with the right lifting capacity
Purchase the Right Equipment:
If you need a forklift that can handle heavier loads than your current equipment, instead of doing a forklift lifting capacity modification, you should consider trading in your current forklift for one that has a higher capacity.
For example, at Wayco we take trade-ins and we have a large selection of quality pre-owned forklifts that you can choose from. Our pre-owned trucks have a great 30-day warranty and we also offer financing on both our new and used forklifts.
In addition, you could also consider purchasing a new forklift. Depending on the brand that you choose, you may find that purchasing a new forklift will give you better equipment that will last longer for you than buying used.
For example, our Hangcha forklifts are priced significantly lower than other brands yet they are just as good, if not better than other brands. Often it makes more sense to purchase a new Hangcha forklift than another pre-owned model.
You can purchase affordable new forklifts with high lifting capacities from Hangcha
Why Choose Wayco?
If you are looking for the best new and used forklift truck dealer, contact Wayco. We fully inspect and certify every used forklift before we sell it to you and we offer incredible warranties, so you can be sure you are getting a high-quality vehicle. We'll accept your old model as a trade-in and we also offer financing.
We are also a full-service forklift dealership. In addition to new and used forklift sales, we also provide:
Highly trained technicians to service all of your lift trucks
Service on all makes and models
Forklift preventative maintenance programs to ensure your trucks are running as efficiently as possible and are compliant with current safety regulations
A full line of forklift parts for any make or model and safety equipment
You can trust Wayco for all of your forklift-related needs. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
"OUR COMPANY SHOPPED AROUND FOR THE MOST COMPETITIVELY PRICED LIFT EQUIPMENT REPAIRS AND RENTAL SERVICES IN THE KW REGION AND FOUND WAYCO MULTI LIFT INC. THEIR REPAIR RATES WERE LOWER THAN THE OTHER COMPANIES OUT THERE AND THE SERVICE IS PROMPT AND PROFESSIONAL FOR OUR IN HOUSE LIFT TRUCKS…[READ MORE]”
- CANADIANBAKEINN
Forklift Won't Start - What Do You Do?
If your forklift won't start, there are a few things that you can try to troubleshoot the problem yourself: Check that your battery if fully charged, check that the fuel in your tank is good, and more!
Click on the links below to take you to more information on each troubleshooting step.
Forklift won’t start? Try these troubleshooting tips
Common Reasons Why Your Forklift Won't Start
Your Forklift Is not Getting Its Fuel Source
Both electric and internal combustion forklifts require fuel in order to start. If they are not getting fuel, then they won't start.
Electric Forklifts
Electric forklifts get their fuel from their battery. You can take the following steps to make sure your electric forklift is getting its fuel from its battery.
Step 1: Find out When Your Lift Truck Was Last Charged.
If your electric forklift won't start, it may simply be because its battery needs to be charged. Find out when it was last charged and if it was properly connected to the charger. If it was not recently charged or properly connected, it will need to be re-charged.
Watch the steps for properly charging a forklift battery
Step 2: Find out if There Were any Power Outages or Electrical Surges
If there was a power outage or an electrical surge during your battery charging time, then it may not have been properly charged and will need to be re-charged.
Step 3: Check to See if Your Headlights Are Still Working
Turn on your headlights to see if they still work. If they don't turn on at all, there are a few possible reasons why including:
A blown main power fuse
Corroded battery connections
Loose or broken ground connections
If your lights turn on, then try blowing the horn. If the lights dim, then your battery may be dead or you may have a bad connection. Check to see if it is charged and check that all of the connections are secure.
Learn how to take voltage readings on a forklift battery
You can check to see if your battery is fully charged using a VOM (volts-ohm-meter). If your battery is fully charged then the VOM should read about 13.2 volts. If you notice that the voltage drops at the battery terminals, then the battery is most likely your problem.
Re-charge your battery fully and then test it again with the VOM. If your battery doesn't take a full 13.2-volt charge, then it may need to be replaced.
If your battery is good, then your problem might be a malfunctioning fuse or plug that needs to be replaced. A professional can help you quickly find the problem and get you up and running again.
Internal Combustion Forklift
If your forklift has an internal combustion engine, then you should check that it is properly getting its diesel or gas.
Step 1: Check to See if Your Fuel Is Still Good
Find out if the fuel has been sitting in your forklift's tank for an extended period of time. It may need to have a completely new tank of fuel.
Diesel can go bad in as little as 30 days especially if it comes in contact with water. Keeping your tank full will cut down on condensation forming inside of your tank and damaging your fuel.
Step 2: Check Your Other Fluid Levels
If your forklift won’t start, check your fluid levels, especially your oil
Check all of your other fluid levels to see that they are topped up.
In some cases, your forklift won't start because it may be designed to stop the fuel valve from opening if there isn't sufficient oil in the engine.
This is a safety feature that prevents you from operating your forklift without enough oil and thus damaging your engine.
Step 3: Check for Fuel Leakages
See if the fuel smells stronger than it usually does. If this is the case, then you may have a fuel leak somewhere that is preventing your forklift from starting.
Step 4: Check Your Battery
Internal combustion forklifts also have batteries, not for fuel but to run other components of your forklift. Follow step 3 under the electric forklifts above to make sure that your problem isn't with your battery.
Proper forklift battery maintenance will help it last longer -Image Source: NationalLiftTruck
Other Possible Reasons Why Your Forklift Won't Start
1. Your Safety Features Are On: Some forklifts are equipped with an emergency power-off switch. Check to see that this switch hasn't been accidentally flipped as it could be the reason why your forklift won't start.
2. Your Engine Is Too Cold: If your forklift has been exposed to extremely cold temperatures for a long period of time, then it may not start. If possible, move your forklift to a warmer area. Let it warm up for a while and then try starting it again.
3. You Don't Have Enough Weight on Your Seat: Another safety feature that many forklifts have is that they won't start unless there is a certain amount of weight on the seat.
This is a feature that ensures that there is an operator seated in the forklift before it can be started.
Try adjusting your weight and make sure that you are firmly seated before starting your forklift engine.
When Should You Call a Professional
There are many other reasons why your forklift won't start. If you have tried all of the above steps then it is time to contact a professional.
A forklift is a complex piece of machinery and other than the basic maintenance and troubleshooting, its service and repairs should be left to trained technicians.
Wayco - For the Best Service, Parts, and Warranties in the Forklift Industry
If your forklift won’t start, contact the professionals at Wayco. Our fully equipped service and parts departments are always available to repair all popular makes of industrial forklift trucks 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!
Whether you are in the market for a new or used forklift, talk to the professionals at Wayco. Wayco offers the best warranties in the business for both new and used forklifts so you can purchase with confidence!
Simple Guide to Forklift Battery Maintenance
Learn about proper and safe forklift battery maintenance, including performing equalization charges, watering your battery cells, washing your battery case, and more.
In this post, we'll outline the basic steps to forklift battery maintenance.
We have over 40 years in the material handling industry, and we would love to share our expertise and experience with you.
This comprehensive guide will outline what you need to do and when to keep your forklift battery in great shape so that it lasts as long as possible. So, let's get going.
Forklift Battery Maintenance
Proper forklift battery maintenance will help it last longer -Image Source: NationalLiftTruck
Proper forklift battery maintenance will not only prolong the life of your battery, thus saving you on replacement costs, but it will also ensure the safety of your workers.
As part of your forklift batter maintenance plan, you should regularly:
Perform equalization charges
Water your battery cells
Wash your battery case
By setting up a regular forklift battery maintenance schedule at set intervals, you can possibly extend the life of your lead acid battery as long as possible; even past the warranty dates.
Step 1: Perform Equalization Charges
As your battery gets used, the cells can lose their capacity to fully hold a charge. For example, one of your cells in your battery may be fully charged while another one is only able to hold half of a charge. If this happens, then your battery becomes less efficient.
An equalization charge will help prolong the life of your forklift battery - Image Source: NationalLiftTruck
Performing an equalization charge can fix this problem. A regular forklift battery recharge cycle lasts about 8 hours. When you do an equalization charge, you continue charging your battery for an extra 3 hours or more at a lower stream of power.
This additional lower charging should make all your cells hold a full charge once again. Because this type of charging can take longer, you will also need to let your battery cool down longer.
It is a good idea to perform equalization charges on the weekend or when production is slower so that you can fit in the extra charging and cooling time necessary.
Frequency: Once a week depending on how often it is used
Step 2: Water Your Battery Cells
You need to make sure that you maintain the correct water level inside your battery. Your water level should come to about a half an inch below the battery cap opening.
The electrolyte level needs to be kept between the "high watering level" and the separator protectors marked on your battery.
Pour water carefully into the filler wells
Image Source: National Institute of Standards and Technology [Public domain]
Make sure that you don't overfill your battery. If you notice moisture on the tops of your batteries, then you will know that it has been overfilled.
An important part of proper forklift battery maintenance is watering your battery
You should only add water to your battery after you have performed a charge cycle. The type of water that you add is very important; it should only be distilled and deionized water. Make sure you check your owner's manual for the specifications.
Frequency: Weekly or bi-monthly depending on how often it is used
Step 3: Wash Your Battery Case
Keeping your battery case clean will help to prolong its life. If battery acid residue builds up on your battery, you could have a couple of problems.
First, It can make a conductive circuit between the lead posts and its steel case, causing a low-level discharge. This will make your battery burn through its charge cycles and wear out faster.
Clean your battery case of any residue to prevent corrosion -Image Source: NationalLiftTruck
Second, it can corrode the terminals and damage them. This damage could cause electrical problems with your forklift itself and it can lessen your battery capacity.
To clean your battery case, you should spot clean the tops using an acid-neutralizing de-greaser. Make sure the vent caps are sealed tightly before you begin. If your cleaning solution seeps into the electrolyte (battery acid), then your battery will be ruined.
Frequency: Every month depending on how often it is used
In addition, you should thoroughly wash your entire battery to help control acid and corrosion.
Frequency: Every 3 to 6 months depending on how often it is used
Additional Forklift Battery Maintenance Tips
Forklift batteries contain a dangerous corrosive material called sulfuric acid that can cause severe burns. Because of this, your staff should always wear protective gear when handling and charging them.
Keep flames and metal away from battery tops. For this reason, you should remove any metal jewellery when you are handling a forklift battery.
For Proper Forklift Battery Maintenance, Contact Forklift Hub.
If you are looking for assistance in caring for your forklift batteries, Wayco offers a comprehensive battery care program.
We will provide monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or yearly inspection of your equipment, batteries, and chargers, making sure they are maintained correctly and on a routine basis.
Contact Forklift Hub today to schedule your service.
Best Forklift Warranties in the Business
Whether you are in the market for a new or used forklift, talk to the professionals at Wayco. Wayco offers the best warranties in the business for both new and used forklifts so you can purchase with confidence!
