The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Moffett Truck-Mounted Forklifts

Moffett truck-mounted forklifts are a crucial piece of equipment for many businesses. They allow operators to efficiently load and unload materials, increasing productivity and decreasing manual labor. However, like all heavy machinery, they require proper maintenance to ensure they operate reliably and safely. Preventative maintenance is crucial for Moffett forklifts to avoid costly repairs and downtime. In this article, we will discuss the importance of preventative maintenance for Moffett forklifts and what daily preop checks and regular fluid checks and changes are necessary.

Daily preop checks

Daily preop checks are a critical part of preventative maintenance for Moffett forklifts. These checks should be done before the forklift is put into operation each day. They help identify any potential issues that could cause safety concerns or damage to the equipment. Here are some of the items that should be on a daily-preop checklist:

• Visuble Inspection: Check for wear on the tires, forks and body of the machine
• Stabilisers: Check for proper oil, no cracks, wear or leaks
• Lift Chains: Should be lubricated and at the correct tension
• Mast Assembly: Should be able to raise and lower, extend and retract and tilt forward and back smoothly
• Oil & Fluid: Check oil and coolant levels
• Engine Compartment: visually check the belts and radiator and listen for unusual sounds from the engine
• Hydraulic Controls: Make sure they run smoothly without any unusual friction or sounds
• Safety Features such as lights, beacon, side guard, work lights, grab handles & seat belt

Regular Fluid Checks and Changes

Regular fluid checks and changes are also important for preventative maintenance on Moffett forklifts. The hydraulic system is a critical component of the forklift, and the hydraulic fluid plays a vital role in its operation. Fluid checks should be a part of every maintenance cycle.  Moffetts that are powered by internal combustion should have minor maintenance performed every 250-300 hours of operations. 

The hydraulic fluid should be checked during these maintenance schedules.  Any signs of contamination, such as water or metal particles, should be addressed immediately.  It is crucial to use top-quality premium hydraulic fluid that reaches viscosity quickly, which helps with an easy start-up.

In addition to the hydraulic system, other fluids, such as engine oil and coolant, should also be checked and changed regularly. Low levels of oil or coolant could cause engine damage or overheating, leading to costly repairs and downtime.

Other checks performed during regular maintenance

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance as outlined in the manual for your specific Moffett forklift.  Below is a list of some components and checks that you can expect to be inspected during regular maintenance: 

• Adjust and lubricate lift chains
• Grease and inspect all moving parts
• Change inline & main fuel element
• Check bolts, nuts and fittings
• Adjust valve clearance on the engine
• Check fan belt tension
• Check engine idling speed
• Electrical component check
• Hydraulic system check
• Check tires and rims
• Full check of mast sections and carriage sections (play, bearings, bushings)

Final thoughts

Overall, the importance of preventative maintenance cannot be overstated. Proper maintenance helps ensure that the Moffett forklift operates safely and efficiently, prolongs its life, and protects the investment in the equipment. By taking the time to commit to regular maintenance businesses can avoid costly repairs and downtime, allowing for maximum productivity and profitability.

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