What To Look for When Buying a Used Forklift

December 20, 2022 - Last modified: December 9, 2022 @ 2:57 pm

When buying a used forklift, you'll consider all the same specs you would on a new forklift, such as lift capacity and mast type, which attachments to include, and how high the truck can raise a load of material.

You can expect a lower used forklift price than the cost of purchasing a new machine; however, with a used forklift, you have some additional items to check out on any vehicle you're considering. Learn what to look for in a used lift truck to ensure that the vehicle is safe to operate, has some service years left in it, and won't cost you a fortune in repairs.

Inspect the Operational Features Before Buying a Used Forklift

Buying a used forklift isn't worth much if it doesn't run properly or if it is on its last legs. In addition to considering the used forklift price, make sure to have a close look at the physical condition and examine each important aspect of a forklift.

Forks and Mast

If the forks are worn thin, have any welded repairs, or are warped or bent, they may not have a whole lot of hours of service left. Cracks, however, are even more likely to indicate that the forks will need replacing soon. Look closely; the forks will tell you a lot about the condition of the vehicle.

When buying a forklift, check the condition of the heel as well. It should be the same thickness as the upright. If it is worn thin, the forks won't last long.

On the mast, look for gaps or missing or damaged links in the chains. Keep an eye out for too many repairs or poorly performed maintenance of the chains. Check the rails for cracks, dents, or excessive wear, and confirm that the mast rollers are in good condition. The rollers should be round, not oval, in shape.

Examine the hydraulics carefully and check all hoses on the used forklift for cracks. Looks for signs of leaks on hoses and connections, both before and after a test drive.

Tires and Wheels

When buying a used forklift, closely examine the tires. You don't want to see cracks or "chunking," where large portions of rubber are missing. If the wheels are in rough shape, you will need to replace them.

If you can see the wear line on the tire, you'll have an idea of how much rubber tread remains for functional use. If the wear line isn't visible, use the outside edge of the lettering on the tire as your indicator; it is roughly where the wear line should be.

Make sure the wheels are in good condition and that they're not missing any lug nuts. Wheels should be free of rust and show no significant dents or damage.

Frame and Body

Don't worry about small dings and scratches on a forklift body when buying a used forklift. These are normal for a machine that moves heavy loads around a warehouse all day. However, large dents or areas that appear hammered out could indicate rough use or serious damage.

If the overall condition of the lift truck doesn't match the hours on the odometer and the known use of the machine, this is a cause for concern.

Hydraulics, Engine, and Battery

Examine all hoses for cracks or leaks in both the engine compartment and on all hydraulics. Look for dirt or debris build-up on the engine. Check the oil and electrical connections. Ensure that belts are in good condition and that no fluids have leaked and accumulated on the engine.

Generally, the engine should be clean and free of leaks. Check around the radiator and the transmission for leaks as well. Oil should look clear, not cooked. Belts should be tight and sound.

The battery should be clean as well, with good connections and no corrosion around the posts.

Examine Safety Features When Buying a Used Forklift

Test the horn, the lights, the backup alert, and the seatbelt. These should all be in good working order. Look carefully at the frame of the cab area. Ensure that it is structurally sound, without bent or damaged metal. Ensure that windows are not broken or missing glass.

Take a Test Drive Before Buying a Forklift Used

If the forklift passes your visual inspection, it's time to test how it operates. This is vital to helping you ensure whether the used forklift price is actually a good deal. Start the vehicle and listen to it for a moment. Did it start right up, and does the engine run smoothly? If the engine coughs or sputters or if you notice a very strong exhaust smell, the engine may need some work.

Drive the forklift forward and then in reverse. Take a few turns so you can feel if the balance is off or if it maneuvers with any difficulty. Raise the forks and extend the mast fully. The motions should feel smooth and effortless, even on a used forklift.

Test other fork movements, including tilt, pivot, and side shift.

After you've run the machine for a bit, check again for engine or hydraulic leaks. You are more likely to see leaks after the engine is warm and the hydraulics have been in use than when the vehicle has just been sitting.

Ask for Maintenance Records Before Buying a Used Forklift

Hours on the odometer aren't the whole story.

Request all records of service, and find out everything you can about how and where the previous owner used the forklift. Confirm that the odometer reading matches the condition of the vehicle. If inspection reports are available, examine them as well.

Ask when the battery was last replaced. A battery will last about five years under normal use, assuming the forklift was used for a single shift. If the truck was worked for double shifts, this will cut that lifespan down to about half.

If the forklift has been used in a dry, clean environment lifting relatively light loads, it will last longer than the same truck with the same number of hours that worked in rough or wet conditions.

Find the Best Price When Buying a Used Forklift

Before buying a forklift, compare as many used forklifts as possible to find the most appropriate equipment for your business and the most competitive used forklift price. Buying a used forklift can be an exceptional investment when you know what to look for.

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*Savings claims are based on used forklift prices when compared to new inventory prices. Savings is not guaranteed and is subject to change.
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