Steering issues with forklifts can endanger both the productivity and safety of your equipment and project. Forklifts make it possible to move heavy objects on the job site with ease and efficiency. However, the steering problems can pose serious safety concerns on the site when not handled properly. For issues to be avoided and operations to remain effective, it is necessary to be aware of typical causes and troubleshooting techniques.
Important Forklift Parts
More than half of the problems arise due to negligence and unawareness of the forklift part. The heavy equipment operators need to understand them first before giving it a run. Some of the major components of a forklift are:
Mast
The mast is responsible for regulating tilting, lifting, and lowering the forklift pallet. It is attached to the carriage, which draws hydraulic power from the mast, and the forks, which carry loads.
Chassis
The four major components including the counterweight, engine or battery, operator compartment, and wheels/tires make up the chassis.
Overhead Guard
The overhead guard protects the forklift driver from falling objects within the cab.
Common Problems in Forklift
To give proper and specific maintenance and troubleshooting, you must understand the common problems that may possibly arise in the forklift.
Problems with the mast
The mast is prone to errors, especially during operations involving multiple stages of hoisting.
Steering Issues
Issues with steering can put worker safety at risk and can be particularly difficult, especially in confined places.
Problems in Starting the Machine
Forklifts occasionally experience starting problems, which reduces production.
Causes of Forklift Steering Problems
The top four reasons why a forklift’s steering gets failure in working are as follows:
Steering Pressure Valves
Modern forklifts use steering pressure valves and a regulating valve to provide hydraulic steering. This valve may deteriorate with time, resulting in issues with steering pressure.
Broken Gears
Broken gears in forklifts are a common issue. It can easily be identified by excessive steering wheel movement for a slight direction change.
Low Steering Fluid Levels
Smooth steering requires a sufficient amount of steering fluid. As levels fall, friction develops and might potentially harm internal parts.
Uneven Tire
Defective steering cylinders might result in misaligned tires, which makes it difficult to effectively steer the forklift even on a smooth surface.
Tips for Troubleshooting Forklift Steering
Follow this maintenance and troubleshooting recommendations to make sure your forklift runs smoothly and maintain a longer lifespan:
- Read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for routine inspections.
- Operators and maintenance personnel should receive rigorous training.
- Keep extra replacement parts on hand in case any piece breaks.
- In the appropriate range specified by the manufacturer, check the hydraulic fluid levels.
- Check steering parts for corrosion or cracks that could indicate water damage.
- Make sure the wiring and electrical connections are working fine to avoid damage or corrosion.