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Year-Round Maintenance Of Wheeled Forklifts

Dec 17, 2025

Wheeled forklifts are core material handling equipment in various scenarios such as warehousing, construction sites, and farms. Different seasons require different maintenance to extend the equipment's lifespan and maximize efficiency.

 

1. Spring Operations: Pay Attention to Temperature Differences and Moisture Control

Springtime temperatures are generally high in most areas, with some areas experiencing rainy weather and slippery surfaces. Dust storms are common in some arid regions, affecting visibility.

During operation, be aware that lower temperatures in the early morning and evening can reduce ground hardness, especially on muddy outdoor surfaces. Reduce load appropriately to prevent the forklift from sinking or the goods from tipping over.

After rain, when the ground is slippery, drive slowly, avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, and maintain a safe distance from other equipment and pedestrians.

In dusty or rainy weather, clean the windshield and rearview mirrors promptly, and turn on fog lights if necessary to ensure clear visibility and avoid collision risks.

Equipment Maintenance:

Tires: Check tire tread depth. Replace severely worn tires promptly to prevent insufficient traction on slippery surfaces.

Hydraulic System: In spring, due to large temperature differences, use hydraulic oil with a wide operating temperature range and regularly check for leaks at oil pipe joints.

 

2. Summer Operations: Summer brings high temperatures, strong sunlight, and frequent heavy rain and thunderstorms in some areas.

High temperatures can easily cause equipment to overheat, and heavy rain can lead to water accumulation on the site, affecting operational safety.

Avoid working during the midday heat. Adopt an "early start, late finish" or segmented work pattern to reduce the risk of heatstroke for personnel and overloading of wheeled forklifts.

Operators must wear breathable, sun-protective work clothes, non-slip gloves, and be equipped with sun hats and sufficient drinking water to avoid heatstroke caused by direct sunlight and ensure operational comfort.

Prioritize wheeled forklifts with efficient cooling systems. During operation, regularly check the radiator for blockages and promptly clean dust and debris to ensure proper engine or motor cooling and prevent overheating malfunctions.

Sealing and Protection: Check equipment seals for aging and replace damaged parts promptly to prevent rainwater and dust from entering internal components; apply rust inhibitors to exposed metal parts to slow corrosion in high-temperature and high-humidity environments.

 

3. Autumn Operations: Pay Attention to Dryness and Cooling to Enhance Equipment Stability

Autumn temperatures gradually decrease globally, the weather is generally dry, windy and dusty, and the temperature difference between day and night increases. Light frost may occur in some areas, and the ground is prone to condensation and slippery conditions.

When working outdoors, operators should wear masks. Wheeled forklifts can be equipped with wind deflectors to reduce dust. When handling fragile or delicate goods, ensure proper sealing to prevent dust from affecting quality.

Site Cleanup: Promptly clean up fallen leaves, dead branches, and other debris from the work area to prevent them from getting caught in equipment tires or chassis, affecting driving and braking performance.

Hydraulic System Maintenance: Dry weather can easily lead to water loss in hydraulic oil. Regularly check the oil level and quality. When replenishing hydraulic oil, use clean containers to avoid impurities; check hydraulic lines for cracks caused by temperature contraction and repair them promptly.

 

4. Winter Operation Precautions: Low temperatures and snowfall in some areas during winter can cause equipment fluids to solidify and rubber parts to harden.

Before operation, run the equipment unloaded for 10-15 minutes to preheat the engine and hydraulic system gradually. Avoid direct heavy-load operation at low temperatures to reduce equipment wear.

On icy or snowy roads, install snow chains or switch to snow tires. Avoid excessive speed and sudden acceleration or braking to prevent slipping.

Use winter-specific antifreeze hydraulic oil, engine oil, and diesel fuel for maintenance to prevent fluid solidification.

Add antifreeze to the water tank and check its seal to prevent leaks and freezing. Low temperatures may increase brake fluid viscosity; test braking performance regularly and replace with winter-specific brake fluid if necessary. After operation, promptly drain any residual water from the hydraulic system to prevent freezing and blockage of pipes.

 

Proper maintenance in each season will ensure your wheeled forklift provides efficient and safe handling services for a longer period.

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