With summer just around the corner, the warmer weather can put your forklift at risk of overheating. This can disrupt your operation, not to mention pose an array of safety concerns. Knowing how to address this issue promptly and effectively is a must for maintaining productivity and preventing damage to your equipment.

We’ve pulled together this guide to provide five essential steps you should take should your forklift show signs of overheating.

Conduct a Routine Maintenance Check

When you notice your forklift starting to overheat, your first step should be to conduct a routine maintenance check. Park your forklift in a safe location and go through your standard pre- and post-shift safety checklist. Pay close attention to coolant levels and hoses, as undiagnosed leaks can quickly escalate the issue.

Also, inspect the radiator and fans for any signs of damage, as these components are often the culprits behind overheating problems. If everything appears to be in order but the issue persists, it might be time to seek assistance from a certified expert who can take a closer look.

Keep the Area Clean

If there’s one significant contributor to forklift overheating, it’s the presence of dust and debris in the work area. Regularly sweeping and cleaning the surroundings can help minimise these risks. Even in outdoor environments, efforts should be made to reduce clutter and ensure that no loose materials pose a threat to your forklift’s operation.

You also need to maintain proper fluid levels, particularly during hot weather. By keeping your work area clean and monitoring fluid levels, these actions go a long way in preventing overheating issues before they occur.

Ensure Proper Workload

Overworking your forklift is another common cause of overheating. Make sure your forklift isn’t being tasked beyond its recommended capacity, as this can strain the engine and lead to overheating. Consider revising work schedules or acquiring additional forklifts better suited to handle heavy loads if necessary.

It’s also essential to educate your team on the impact of their driving habits on the forklift’s performance. Training them to avoid excessive speed, brake usage, or overuse of the inching pedal can help prevent overheating incidents, as well as prolong the lifespan of your equipment.

Identify Signs of Overheating

It’s your job to know the signs of an overheating forklift. Keep a close eye out for steam emitting from the engine compartment, warm console or cabin airflow, and any unusual noises during operation.

Monitoring the temperature gauge for readings in the ‘red zone’ and watching for backfires or sudden coolant leaks indicates overheating. Staying vigilant and responsive to these signs can help prevent further damage and downtime. 

Cooling an Overheated Forklift

If your forklift does overheat, it’s essential to take action right away to cool it down. Park the forklift in a cool location and let it rest for at least 4 hours before conducting a thorough maintenance check. 

Avoid spraying water on the engine and ensure that all components are properly inspected and any necessary repairs are carried out before returning the forklift to operation. 

Addressing an overheating forklift promptly is vital for keeping your equipment and operation safe. Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or require professional assistance, our team of experts in forklift repairs are just a call away.