Used Forklift Trucks and Lifts For Sale

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Purchasing used forklift trucks for some people is the only viable option. This is namely because the cost of a new one is too expensive and also because the nature of work would make renting one not viable. This section provides help to those thinking of investing in used forklifts and also supplies some valuable inspection criteria.

Ideally the work conditions that would best optimize the capabilities of a second hand lift would be one where the vehicle is used for short shifts (of about five hours) and for only five days of the week.

What to Look For in Used Forklifts and Ones up For Sale

Used forklift trucks for sale can be found in tons of adverts online and off. Trying to sift through them all is a nightmare and trying to figure out why vehicle A is better than vehicle B is near impossible. What now?

Step 1: Rule out anyfor sale adverts that are not placed by otherforklift users or dealers.

Step 2: Try and find the used RENTALl vehicles. They are considered a better buy because they have generally not been as "over-worked."

Step 3: Once you have come up with a few possibilities you then need to assess them in terms of their condition and maintenance history. To do this you will need to have a look at the maintenance records, or failing that make an appointment for a complete mechanical once over.

Step 4: Used forklifts, truck areas that need attention are:

The mast - check its operation with and without a load (try and get it to handle a full load.) It should then be angled forward and back to check if there is unnecessary play between the mast channels.
Running - does the machine operate smoothly, or is there any stickiness or jerkiness?
Any attachments should be connected up and put to work to ensure they are in fit working order.
Keep a look out damp spots and other signs of leaks - key parts that a prone to this are the engine (oil), transmission, mast, differential and the radiator. Even a small one can be the start of a big and often expensive problem.
The brakes need to be tested while the vehicle is fully loaded up. This is important safety need.
Check the body for dents and abrasion - these are signs to how the machine was looked after.
Take it for a test drive making ensure to use both forward and reverse gears. Usually the standard figure eight track sequence is used.

Further Inspection

You may think that by getting this far you have a sure thing.not so. To safeguard yourself from a bad investment you should get a more in-depth inspection performed by a mechanic. You need to protect yourself from:

Low oil pressure
Over worn valves
Rust in the engine coolant
Discolored transmission fluid
Distorted mast channels
Damaged hydraulic cylinder rods
Lift with a downward drift
Leaking hydraulics
Wear on the fork
Check for cracks and welds on the chassis
Loose steering axle knuckles
Absent safety equipment

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