First of all, before going in details of what you should be checking before buying a used forklift. I highly recommend you to have a look on why you should buy a used forklift instead of a brand new one.
A used forklift is an excellent investment if it suits your needs. If you choose it properly, you will not have extreme running costs and then in fact you’ll start to save in comparison if you had bought a new one.
1- Take a look at the general condition of the forklift (Sheet metal and Body). Look at how physically the forklift has been treated, abused or neglected. If the body has been freshly painted, look for point of rust under the paint. Keep in mind that after a few month the rust will come out anyway. Generally, do not choose a forklift because it looks good but for the way it operates and runs.
2- Operate the forklift. Try to ear any unusual noise in the engine, the starter, the gear box. Leave the engine run for a bit, try to see if it has a stable rpm when not in used, and if cooling fan starts when needed. Then test all the features of the forklift, engage transmission, forward, backward. Use the forks, all the stages of your mast, side shift or any other attachment.
3- Try to point out any leak. Even if you need to bend underneath or have a proper look, it will be worth to take your time and try to identify any leak. The places to check are: lift cylinder, tilt cylinder, side shift or other auxiliary function cylinder, steering cylinder, brake system, differential, transmission, and engine. You’ll be looking at different type of liquids: cooling liquid, oil, water, break liquid. Also have a check at the fluid levels and condition of the fluids. It will give you an idea of how often the maintenance has been done and if it has been recent. Some used forklifts have not been maintained properly, you can always ask if a record of services is available.
Hopefully this has been helpful to you.
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