Why You Should Consider Buying A Used Forklift

Do you need a forklift? When shopping for a forklift, finding the right model to do the job at the right price is critical. In addition, there are some common questions to consider when making this purchase. This is a good overview of forklifts and how to make the right choice, whether buying for personal or business use.

Purchasing a used forklift will result in significant savings. Still, taking a methodical and careful approach can save you thousands of dollars.

Advantages of buying a used forklift

Cost saving is an important consideration. Used forklifts can cost up to 50% less. In addition, parts availability can be an issue with newer models. Many used forklift dealers provide excellent purchasing advice. First-person research is always the best.

Consider where you will buy the forklift. Not all sources are created equal, and you should only purchase from a reputable seller like Forklift Handling.

Buying a used forklift

Always have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used forklift. This step will save you both time and money in the long run. A forklift is the most efficient piece of heavy-duty equipment for handling and lifting. It’s ideal for moving and loading. Whether you need a used forklift with non-marking rubber tires for your warehouse or a rough terrain used forklift for your construction site, you should buy a used forklift that is still in excellent condition. With so many forklift options available today, there are numerous factors to consider.

Examine the forks and mast

Front forks and the mast should be inspected for cracks, bends, and other distortions. Inspect this area thoroughly for any signs of leaks, particularly the cylinders. Consider having the forks straightened if the bends are minor. You should be cautious of any bends or cracks in the forks because deep cracks on your forklift may make lifting heavy loads dangerous. Inspect the masts for cracks or welds and the master pins, tilt and side shift cylinders, and cylinders for leaks.

Check the mast rails, lift chains, and cylinders

Examine the mast rails, lift chains, and cylinders. Look carefully for crafts or welds once more. Mast rollers will be compressed if they are overly worn. The cylinders should be free of leaks and damage, and there should be no missing bolts. After inspecting the forks and mast, check the mast rails for any cracks or welds that may compromise the structural integrity of the mast. Examine the mast rails for excessive wear, especially if they are still round in shape. After inspecting the mask rollers, ensure that the lift chains are in good working order and that no anchor pins are missing or damaged. Examine the hoses and lift chains for equal tension distribution. Tilt the cylinders connected to the forklift bearing and inspect for leaks, damage, or missing bolts.

Inspect the frame, canopy, and cowling

Walk around the used forklift to inspect the frame, cowling, and canopy. First, examine the forklift’s body for any signs of damage, paying close attention to every side of the forklift to check cowling. Next, inspect the canopy supports for damage or bends that may affect the canopy’s ability to protect the operator in the event of a drop or rollover. Furthermore, you should investigate the dependability of side screens. If the forklift has an enclosed cab, ensure there are no missing or damaged windows. Next, scrutinise the forklift’s chassis for cracks, welds, or evidence of modifications or repairs. After inspecting the chassis, look for chunking in the tires and missing lug nuts on the wheels.

Examine the cab and overall operation

Step into the forklift and sit on the operator’s seat, fastening the seat belt to check the condition of the seat and whether it is correctly fixed into its position. Start the engine and listen for strange sounds. Next, lift and lower the loader arm, tilt it back and forth, and side shift to the left and right to see if it is operating smoothly. Finally, double-check all forklift controls. Complete a thorough inspection in the same manner as you would a car. If you are unfamiliar with an engine’s components, have a professional inspect it.

Check the engine compartment, exhaust guard, and counterweights

After you’ve tested the forklift’s operation, open the engine compartments, and look for leaks, cracks in hoses, and dirt build-up. Examine the oil level and the condition of the oil, as well as whether the belts are worn, tight, or cracked. Ensure the air filters are clean, and if the forklift you’re inspecting is electric, make sure all of the battery connections are in good working order. After you’ve finished checking the engine compartments, make sure the counterweights’ bolts are secure. Examine the exhaust guard for any damage as well.

If you’re unfamiliar with forklifts, it’s a good idea to research the various makes and models before deciding. Many people are unfamiliar with the parts of forklifts. The cab and carriage, the central part of the lift and the lift’s support structure, are two examples. In addition, you should be aware of terms such as mast, which is the component that lifts and lowers the load. Understanding the structure will aid your purchasing decision.

Contact Forklift Handling for details

Contact a representative from Forklift Handling today to learn more about our used forklifts. We are a trusted and leading supplier of various forklift services and offers, including used forklift sales, repairs, maintenance, and rental. In addition, our specialist team has decades of experience working with the world’s leading brands, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, Toyota, TCM, Clark, Doosan, and Hyster. Therefore, we can confidently offer various used forklifts for sale in South Africa and help you make an informed decision.