Counterbalance forklifts are used in a variety of industries and applications. They’re often found in warehouses, manufacturing operations, retail, construction yards and even farms.

Forklifts are required for maintaining efficient operations, with high levels of usage throughout the day. Due to frequent levels of use, forklift operators can become complacent and forget to carry out simple checks on their counterbalance forklifts before carrying out their tasks which can result in costly repairs, or result in accidents within the workplace.

Taking preventative maintenance is the best action when it comes to reducing downtime and increasing the safety of your counterbalance forklifts. So, what are the simple steps you can take to keep your counterbalance forklifts operating at its best?

Pre-operational checks 

A pre-operational check is a mandatory daily task carried out by your forklift truck operators to identify any changes in the truck’s handling. This simple step is a cost-effective measure to avoid major costly repairs in the future, and maintain a safe working environment. The type of forklift truck you operate will determine what checks need to be carried out.

Electric forklifts pre-operation checklist

• There is no fraying or exposed wires in cables or connectors
• Battery is sufficiently charged
• Battery restraints are functional
• Electrolyte levels are proper
• The hood latch is operational

Internal combustion pre-operation checklist

• Engine oil and engine coolant levels are proper
• Air filters are clean and in place
• The radiator is free of cracks or other defects
• The hood latch is operational
• Fuel level is ok for days usage

Check your service plan

Counterbalance forklifts can be operated for long hours, and exposed to the elements, in tough environments. This means parts can wear over time or even break, leading to downtime of your fleet. If things go wrong, you want to be sure that your downtime is as low as it possibly can be, and that’s where the right service plan accompanied with genuine Toyota parts can benefit your operations.

All our service packages come with preventative maintenance and replacement of main service parts to keep your operations running efficiently.

Our network of highly skilled service technicians work right across the UK, and aim to be with you in 4 hours if repairs are needed.

Get to know your battery

Whether using lead acid or lithium batteries it’s important to take care of your battery to prevent any costly repairs. With the right type of care, charged optimally, you can use your electric forklifts to full capacity while saving energy and costs.

• Always charge batteries in the designated battery charging bay.
• Lead-acid batteries should be charged when they reach 20% discharge. This will keep the battery life expectancy at five years or more.
• Lithium-ion batteries benefit from opportunity charging.
• When charging batteries, wear proper safety equipment such as gloves and protective glasses - pour acid into water, never pour water into acid.
• Check the water level. Do not add water prior to recharging. Record the battery level in your service log.

Following these simple steps will ensure you’re better equipped to maintain your counterbalance truck for the upcoming year and the future.