Updated: 1/17/2022
With the colder months approaching quickly, equipment must adapt to the new circumstances. Winterizing equipment isn’t hard to do if you do it correctly. The following tips are helpful for properly preparing to winterize your forklift to ensure better productivity and a longer lifespan.
Batteries
Batteries are vital to the operation of an electric forklift; however, with winter bringing harsh weather conditions batteries will become more susceptible to a shorter lifespan. Have your batteries and charging system checked regularly during the colder months.
Cooling System
Checking on the cooling system is imperative. We recommend adding anti-freeze to the system. Be sure that the system is cleaned out and flushed before adding the anti-freeze.
Tires
Before winter comes, consider getting tires specialized for snow and ice if you are located in an area with these weather conditions. If you prefer not to purchase specialized tires for the weather, be sure to check the tire pressure and tire tread depth, this way you can make sure there isn’t a decrease in performance of your forklift.
Braking System
Inspecting your braking system is a must all year round but especially in the next few months. Your brakes are extremely important, and if they aren’t functioning correctly, then you may run into a safety dilemma. To prevent this, examine your brake system before you use your forklift.
Oil Change
It’s best to have an experienced technician change your oil. Make sure they check other critical components which include fuel, air, transmission, and hydraulic filters as well. It is essential to try and have this done before winter arrives.
Lights
Since it is getting darker outside earlier, it is important to ensure your forklift lights are functioning. As lights are a big part of the overall forklift check, look at the warning lights, work, and taillights, and make sure that they are all running and working satisfactorily.
Exhaust System
It isn’t safe to operate a forklift if the exhaust system isn’t checked thoroughly. Be aware of any carbon monoxide leaks in your exhaust system. If you spot any, please call a technician immediately for further assistance.
Tune It Up
Winter will decrease the overall performance of your forklift. To ensure that this won’t happen or be an issue, give your equipment a tune-up as soon as possible.
We hope you find this information informative and useful in your operation. If you have any questions or concerns with the preparation of winterizing your forklift or are interested on finding out more about the KION North America’s portfolio of products, visit us at kion-na.com.
