Forklifts play an important role in factories, warehouses, and construction sites. They help move heavy objects and keep everyday operations running smoothly. However, much like most machinery, forklifts too develop problems from time to time. Ignoring small niggles can later turn into bigger breakdowns, thereby causing safety risks and costly downtime.
So, whether you use your own equipment or use a service such as forklift hire in Cambridge, understanding its common problems helps businesses know when it’s an ideal time to seek professional help.
Forklift Issues That Need Professional Care
- Electrical Issues and Ignition Problems
One of the most common problems forklifts face is difficulty in ignition. Power issues happen due to electrical and battery-related faults. Loose connections, dead batteries, and damaged wiring can at times prevent forklifts from starting. These may also cause the engine to cut out unexpectedly.
As for electrical problems, they are a major worry. They may affect the lights, the warning alarms, and even the control system. This may thus heighten the chances of accidents in busy work environments. Professionals have the tools and experience to diagnose electrical faults and fix them right.
- Hydraulic System Problems
The hydraulic system is what allows the forklift to lift loads. When that stops functioning, the forklift becomes unusable. Some of the most common hydraulic issues include leaking fluid, slow lifting of objects, and staggered fork movement.
For those who do not know, hydraulic leaks not only affect performance but can also create slip hazards. Worn seals or low fluid levels may not seem like much, but they can be a real pain. Professional forklift repair in Cambridge ensures that they are repaired properly, thus restoring them to their original self.
- Brake and Steering Faults
Faulty steering systems and brakes should never be ignored. Brakes that make unusual noises or fail to respond properly can lead to workplace injuries or collisions. Similarly, steering problems or stiffness make forklifts difficult to control.
While these problems may not affect your business productivity right away, continued use of worklifts with poor braking and steering problems may put employees at risk. Go for technicians/ engineers offering professional forklift repair in Cambridge, so necessary repairs can be easily carried out to meet the safety standards at work.
- Tyre Wear and Stability Issues
Forklift tyres take a lot of strain, especially in busy industrial environments. Over time, these can wear out unevenly or even lose grip. In fact, according to experts, damaged tyres lead to stability issues and make the forklifts difficult to manage/ manoeuvre.
Poor tyre condition can also put stress on the equipment, leading to additional problems. Professionals can assess tyre wear and recommend suitable replacements. This makes services such as forklift hire in Cambridge safe to use.
- Overheating and Engine Problems
Forklifts that overheat or show signs of engine trouble should be serviced at the earliest. Some common signs of engine trouble include unusual noises, excessive smoke, or flashing warning lights. These usually occur due to blocked filters, coolant issues, and/ or worn engine components.
Trying to use the forklift even in such conditions can lead to overheating. This, in turn, may severely damage the engine. Thus, regular inspections and timely repairs matter. They extend the life of the equipment and lower the chances of unexpected breakdowns.
Key Takeaway
Let’s face it, forklifts are essential to business operations, but they need proper upkeep to be safe and reliable for use. Issues mentioned in the blog should always be handled by professionals. So, whether you are using your own equipment or relying on forklift hire in Cambridge, prompt attention helps in preventing accidents and downtime.
At KMA Forklifts, we offer reliable forklift servicing. This includes all kinds of repairs and maintenance. We work closely with our clients to minimise downtime and meet proper safety standards. Connect with us today to book professional forklift repairs and keep your operations moving smoothly.