Oil Leaks

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Is there a trail of oil on your warehouse floor? Your forklift may be experiencing an oil leak. An oil leak can potentially be harmful to pedestrians, other forklifts, and the leaking forklift. With less oil to lubricate the mast and other parts, friction and higher than average temperatures could ruin your truck.

There are several reasons why you should seek immediate attention for the oil leak:

Overheating

While forklifts have several gallons of oil reserved for cooling parts, leaking will still drain this oil. Without this oil, forklifts are at risk to overheat. This temperature can rise to 3000 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat has the potential to destroy the most expensive parts to repair, such as the pumps.

Contaminants

Similar to heat, dirt and other contaminants will destroy a forklift. When a forklift is leaking oil, it is easier for outside elements to enter the forklift.  The contaminants will clog oil filters, spool valves, and other parts; this makes the clutch packs slip contaminate the oil. Anything that does not belong in the engine or other parts could result in major damage or destroy the forklift.

Safety precautions and Accidents

Oil on the floor could create danger for both individuals and equipment near it. Workers become vulnerable to accidents and injuries from slipping on the oil. Due to high temperatures of these fluids, severe burns can occur from an unattended leak. The mixture of oil or other fluids also is a fire hazard. Any item with oil could burst in flames, if there is a source of ignition nearby. Not only to protect those around the spill and the equipment, employers should always be aware of the fines they may face from OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Oil leaks are considered a workplace hazard by OSHA.

High Operational Costs

A consistent oil leak could result in constant refilling of fluid to keep the forklift operating. While this is not the best solution, many use this option to continue to work. Finding the reason for the leak can be difficult, but the cost of the repair is less expensive over time than continuing to refill the fluid.

Machine Downtime Losses

With repairs and malfunctioning forklifts, operators are not able to complete their tasks. Less productivity and efficiency are sure to cost the business money and increase the list of responsibilities to be completed. One of the reasons to invest in a repair, rather than refilling the oil, is the amount of time spent letting the components cool down. While the warning signs may be pesky, the potential costs and damages can be prevented with the proper service.

Beginners Guide to Forklifts

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With many types of forklifts to choose from, selecting the right forklift can be difficult. Each forklift type is designed for different applications and choosing the right forklift can greatly improve your efficiency and productivity. Understanding the differences between the seven classes can help you start searching for what you require and pick the correct forklift for your needs.

Different Types of Forklifts

Class I: Electric Motor Riders

Ideal for carrying and moving pallets, Class I forklifts are known as electric motor riders. They are electrically powered, and they are used in a variety of indoor settings and industries, like food storage, retail, factories, and warehouses. With multiple applicable uses, Class I forklifts are quieter and do not create emissions.  Their lift capacity ranges from 3,000 to 40,000 pounds, and their electrical systems are between 24-volt and 80-volt.

Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Forklifts (Reach Truck, Order Pickers)

Electric, narrow aisle forklifts are also called reach trucks and order pickers. These Class II forklifts are built to over maneuverability to move easily throw aisles; with this feature, they are ideal for moving inventory, and they are consistently used to increase racking space in warehouses.

Class III: Electric Pallet Jacks, Stackers, and Tow Tractors

Class III includes electric pallet jacks, stackers, and tow tractors. This equipment is used to unload deliveries, as well as move items that will be later moved by other types of forklifts. Electric Pallet Jacks, Stackers, and Tow Tractors are offered in both walk-behind and rider models.

Class IV: Internal Combustion Cushion Tire Forklifts

Internal Combustion Cushion Tire Forklifts are classified as Class IV. These sit-down forklifts are powered by internal combustion engines that are fueled by diesel, LP gas, or compressed natural gas. These indoor use forklifts have solid, cushioned tires to give a smooth ride and avoid punctures. Class IV forklifts are used in warehousing, distribution, retail, and automotive settings. Their lift capacity is between 3,000 to 100,000 pounds.

Class V: Internal Combustion Pneumatic Tire Forklifts

These forklifts are commonly used for outdoor application due to their durability. Internal Combustion Pneumatic Tire forklifts are ideal for lumberyards and construction sites due to their high lift capacity, 3,000 to 125,000 pounds, and design.

Class VI: Electric/IC Engine Tow Tractors

Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tow Tractors make up Class VI. Rather than lifting materials, these forklifts are used to tow loads. They are frequently used in airports and assembly line areas. While they boast a towing capacity of over 50,000 pounds, they have an extremely tight turn radius. Their AC Drive system allows for quicker acceleration, high speeds, and extended peak operating time.

Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklifts

Class VII, known as rough terrain forklifts, are intended for use in rough terrain. They have large, tractor-style tires, so they are commonly used in constructions sites and lumberyards to assist in lifting building materials to elevated work-sites. Rough terrain forklifts usually require diesel engines due to outdoor use and the uneven and coarse terrain.

Signs the Forklift Needs Service

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Forklifts are a crucial tool being used daily in the operations of most businesses. When it comes to managing costs effectively and protecting the value of your equipment, it is important to assure your forklift is serviced when needed. Routine maintenance and required service can prevent accidents and confirm that your forklifts are operating properly. There are several key signs that your forklift needs service:

Damaged Forks

Worn, cracked, or bent forks can lead to damaged loads, accidents, injuries, and financial burdens.

A stuck Mast

If a mast jerks or catches when moving up or down, there could be a variety of problems, from not enough hydraulic fluid to several damaged parts.

 

Damage to the chain

When a chain is damaged, it will lead to chain failure and other damage of the forklift. Signs of chain damage weak spots, such as link plates, pinheads, and any elongation of the chain.

 

Oil Leak

If you notice a visible trail of oil, check the external and internal parts of the forklift for leaks. An oil leak is hazardous for pedestrians and can also destroy parts of the forklift.

 

Rough Idling during Acceleration

The forklift may require a tune up, if there is rough when the forklift operator accelerates.

 

Slow Hydraulic or Mechanical Response when using the lift, tilt, or attachment functions

High emissions

Black, blue, or white smoke from the exhaust and strong odor indicate that high emissions.

Inconsistent braking

Brakes that squeal or lock may be need to replaced or serviced.

A rough ride

If the forklift operator experiences a rougher than usual ride, the tires may require replacement from wear and tear.

Cracked or brittle hoses

Engine turning slowly

A new battery, starter, or alternator may be needed when the forklift’s engine turns slower.

High engine temperature

Engines that have a temperature higher than average should be serviced immediately. That safety hazards of high temperatures can be fatal to the forklifts and its operators.

Finance? Why?

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This may sound obvious, but did you know that many of our used equipment units can be financed or leased? It’s true! Often times when looking to purchase a used unit, financing it doesn’t even come to mind, but here are a few things to consider before writing that check:

  • BETTER UNIT! Sometimes customers “settle” for a less expensive option that doesn’t fit their needs because they don’t want to or can’t afford what they really need from a cash perspective! Why not consider a flexible lease option that would allow you to get the right equipment for the job?
  • SAVE YOUR CAPITAL! Why not save that precious operating capital and consider leased a used unit? A lot of our used equipment comes to us as off-lease units and are generally only a couple of years old. Also, most have fairly low hours which makes them perfect for the various types of financing and leasing options available to us through our lenders.
  • DEPRECIATION! Why not avoid the instant cost of depreciation by considering a lease option for a “new” piece of used equipment? Let someone else pay for that.
  • OUTDATED EQUIPMENT! If done properly, a well timed lease program can keep you and your business up-to-date with the latest in time savings and efficient equipment, versus having to invest in progressively more costly repairs as your equipment fleet ages and deteriorates.

Let one of our professionals help design the perfect program for your equipment needs!

Why Not From the Internet?

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Let’s be honest… you can buy nearly anything off of the internet! BUT, should you? Here are a few good reasons to buy from an authorized dealer:

  • SERVICE: When you purchase a lift truck, its generally understood that it will need service at some point. An authorized dealer has a network of service professionals specifically trained to handle even the most complicated issues. This is especially true when it comes to the more modern, computer controlled units.
  • WARRANTY: Units that are purchased from internet “wholesalers” can come from any where and any condition! In most every case, these units are sold “as-is, where-is”, meaning you are responsible for freight and when you get it… “it’s yours!” Why not buy from a local dealer who can take care of all of your needs and can do so quickly and efficiently? Remember, just because the “sale” price may look good, it’s not always the best VALUE! Be sure to take into account the TOTAL cost of ownership before clicking “Buy Now!”
  • EXPERTISE: Purchasing a lift truck may seem simple to some, but there are many factors that come into play before selecting the “right” fit for your application. Lifts come in all shapes, sizes and models of operation. Why not let a factory trained sales professional who spends every day of their working life fitting businesses with material handling solutions, help you make the right decision? Trust us… not everything is as it seems to be. The last thing you want to do is “over-buy” or “under-buy”!

Let us help you get it right the first time!!

Used Forklift Buyers Guide

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Used Forklift Buyers Guide

We seem to be all too familiar with stories of forklift equipment purchases gone wrong, which leads to owners left with down time and money pits of parts and equipment.

Before purchasing a used lift – evaluate it!

From following the guide below, you will likely end up with a piece of equipment that you can depend on!

First start by determining what your needs are vs. your wants or whether concrete floors or outdoors on gravel? What size lift can your warehouse handle? – Look at aisle widths! If you are looking at purchasing electric, do you have the type of charging station needed? (single phase or 3 phase)

Budget and Price Expectations

“You get what you pay for” rings true when purchasing a forklift just as it does when purchasing a car. Generally, the higher the capacity the higher the price. Electrics are typically more expensive than the internal combustion lifts and pneumatics are usually even higher. Dealers will sometimes invest more money into the rehabilitation of a forklift, which can be things like cosmetic facelift, simple service, or complete tear down and rebuild. It’s important to ask what a price includes – some brands keep their value better than others due to quality, manufacturing and engineering.

Know your seller! Knowing who you’re purchasing from is important in deterring the quality and validity of the information regarding the forklift sale. Equipment dealers usually have the most general forklift knowledge or service history of the equipment. The Lilly Company performs routine maintenance and occasionally rehabilitate the lift before the sale.

Here are a couple questions to ask when purchasing equipment…

  1. How many hours are on this machine and what type of application did it work in?
  2. Do you have the service history of this forklift?
  3. Were there any recalls or campaigns issued for this piece of equipment and if so, have those repairs been completed?

When Used?

  • When the lift will only be in use for a few hours per day. Generally speaking, no more than 5 days per week or 5 hours per day.
  • Single shift operation
  • Not part of a heavy duty, nonstop environment.
  • When adding an additional unit as back up
  • When funds are limited
  • When you need a good unit now

Why Used?

  • Most can still be financed and/or leased including FMV residual leases
  • Nearly immediate delivery vs. long lead time on new units
  • Some units still qualify for some or part of the original factory warranty
  • “Extended” or “Certified” warranties are available from the manufacturer for  many used units
  • In many cases, there is little difference between the “remaining life” of a used lift vs. a new lift

Contact The Lilly Company for any of your used lift needs!

Electric Forklifts in Rain

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Forklifts often rely on different electrical components to keep running. You should always do enough research before purchasing your lift on when and where you can operate your forklift.

Can you operate your electric forklift in rainy weather?

  • Most forklifts are designed to withstand various weather conditions, but to be entirely sure check the IP code of your forklift to make sure that your lift is safe to use outside.

How waterproof are electric forklifts?

  • By looking at your International Protection (IP) code, you can tell whether or not your forklift is able to operate in the rain. The IP rating system can tell you how well your lift withstands solid particulates and liquids. Any forklift that is rated IPX4 or higher is capable of operating outside during the rain.
  • There is a protection level listed on the IP code from 0 to 6. Zero indicates that the forklift has 0 protection against other objects, while 6 denotes that it is totally dust proof. The liquid protection level is similar yet the scale ranges from 0-8. Zero indicates that the machine has 0 protection against any water and 8 means the lift could be submerged over three meters of water without damage.

Safety Precautions in Rain

  • Set up procedures to keep your operators safe during inclement weather because it can be more difficult to operate your lift in the rain. Here are some examples:
    • Ensure Adequate Visibility (Lights and Horn in check)
    • Know Variances of Forklift Operation (Go Slow, Forklift Chains, Close Covers)

The Lilly Company is glad to help you discover whether or not your forklift can operate in rainy weather. Make sure to prepare in advance because you never know what the weather may bring!

Used vs. New Forklift

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When planning to purchase a forklift there are many questions that should be answered before deciding whether to buy new or used. Both types have advantages and disadvantages, but generally one will fit your situation better than the other.

When to Buy Used?

  • When the lift will only be in use for a few hours per day (Generally, no more than 5 days per week and 5 hours a day)
  • Single Shift Operation
  • Not part of a heavy duty, nonstop environment
  • When adding an additional unit for backup
  • When funds are limited (Can be up to 50% less than a new unit)
  • When you need a good unit now

Why Used?

  • Most can still be financed and/or leased, including FMV residual leases
  • Nearly immediate delivery vs. long lead time of new units
  • Parts can be a major concern among newer models
  • Some units still qualify for some or part of the original factory warranty
  • “Extended” or “certified” warranties are available from the manufacturer for many used units
  • In many cases, there is little difference between the “remaining life” of a used lift vs. a new lift
  • Customer receives fair market value for the material

Although there are many advantages of buying used, there are also a few disadvantages. Such as, just like a used vehicle, a used forklift will have visual wear and tear than a new lift will not have. You will need to receive a detailed report of any previous maintenance issues and take into consideration how long it has been used.

As for new units, they generally speak for themselves. A few advantages of buying a new unit is that new models are equipped to handle longer hours at an efficient pace, whereas the used model is better to be used on occasion. New lifts have a warranty that can be anywhere from 12 to 36 months. A disadvantage of buying a new forklift is that some push away from the higher price and the longer delivery, yet a new forklift can be a better investment.

When deciding to buy a forklift, consider all of these factors to make the best decision for your work environment! Used or new, you are sure to be in good hands with The Lilly Company!

Sit Down vs. Stand up Forklifts

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Sit-Down vs. Stand-Up Forklifts

There are many different options when choosing a forklift, yet all forklift’s have the main goal of moving product safely and effectively. When choosing your forklift it is best to determine which lift will benefit your operations to save you time, money and lead to your utmost safety.

Forklifts are offered in two main types – sit-down model and stand-up model, with a few main differences between the two.

Sit-down forklifts have the option of 3 or 4-wheel models. A 3-wheel model is best for those navigating smaller spaces because it has greater maneuverability.  A sit-down forklift gives the driver the opportunity to stay seated while moving product, which provides more comfort when operating a lift for extended periods of time.

Some situations do not allow the use of a sit-down rider because of workloads or space limitations. Stand-up forklifts save space and have an improved turning radius because of its compact nature. Stand-up models give better visibility, while a sit-down model allows for front facing visibility.

Here are some great questions when determining which forklift is best for you:

  1. Do you have tight areas or narrow aisles?
  2. Does the driver make extended runs or shorter runs with several stops and starts?
  3. How often is your driver moving on and off the lift?
  4. How can you increase productivity? Stand up model or sit-down model?

Consider all of these factors to choose a forklift that best suits you!

Fasten Your Seat belt!!!

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Fasten Your Forklift Seat belt!

Did you know that forklifts don’t have seat belts to protect drivers from collisions? Forklifts have seatbelts to prevent drivers from jumping off the lift if it tips over. If the driver decides to jump from the lift, he/she could be crushed between the ground and the forklift.

Although Occupational Safety and Health Administration does not have specific requirements for seat belts; it does require employers to protect employees from “serious and recognized hazards,” and recognition of the hazard of the powered industrial truck tip over and the need for a restraint system for certain trucks. The national consensus for forklifts manufactured after 1992 are required to have some form of restraint or seat belt to reduce the risk of a driver being crushed if the forklift overturns. Employers are required to ensure that every forklift operator is using the seat belt or restraint, and if not, the employer could be cited for failure to comply with OSHA, which will include a penalty fee to be paid to OSHA.

The most common type of accidents with forklifts is getting crushed in between the ground and the lift. Statistics show that there’s an average of 100 accidents a year of people working on forklifts – over half are overturned accidents; yet trying to convince operators to wear their seat belts is easier said than done! The safest place to be on the lift in the event of an accident is in the seat with the seat belt on.

Wearing a seat belt while operating a forklift can maximize safety and keep you from getting hurt!