How to Choose a Good Used Forklift Truck?

As mentioned in our recent article, there are many advantages to buying a used forklift truck. But this is only true if the equipment purchased meets a number of criteria. When a piece of equipment does not meet these criteria, it is better not to buy it.

Opt for a well-maintained model

In order to take full advantage of your equipment and thus make your purchase profitable, it is essential that your used forklift truck is in good condition. In fact, the older and more worn out it is, the more expensive its maintenance will be. In this case, it will be necessary to change several defective parts and pay the professional each time he intervenes, which may be more expensive than buying a new machine. To recognize a well-maintained piece of equipment, consider a number of things, including the following:

– The number of hours of work shown on the chart;

– The year of origin;

– The use made of the cart.

Good to know: a well-maintained used forklift truck performs as well as a model purchased new.

By comparing the general condition of the machine with the above-mentioned data, you will be able to get a clear idea of the level of maintenance it has received. Professionals in the field are available and will be able to help you if necessary.

Make a few checks

Before purchasing a used forklift truck, there are some important checks that you should make to ensure that you are buying a reliable piece of equipment:

The condition of the engine: it is this element that will determine the performance and efficiency of the forklift truck. The better the engine condition, the easier it will be to operate. First of all, make sure that there is no oil leaking from either side, as this could be a sign of a serious problem. Then, check that it doesn’t make any suspicious noises that could be the result of a breakdown. Don’t forget to take into account the smoke coming out of the exhaust. If it is produced abnormally, there may be a problem.

Safety features: using a forklift is a particularly delicate operation, as it involves handling luggage that generally weighs very heavy. For this reason, always choose a model with functional elements that guarantee the user’s safety. These include the horn, emergency stop system or seat belt.

Brake operating condition: Your truck must be equipped with brakes that work properly. However, it is up to you to decide whether you want to buy it in this way and to change them after purchase.

Consult a specialist site

When it comes to second-hand equipment, having a wide range of proposals is the best way to make the right choice. To do so, consulting a specialized site like Allinson Solutions is the best option available to you in South Florida. On this site, you will also find important information on: Used heavy equipment supplier, Used heavy equipment parts supplier, New heavy equipment parts supplier, Heavy equipment motors for sale, Industrial parts supplier, and Equipment motors for sale. There is a good chance that you will find a top brand forklift truck that is still in good condition. Moreover, you will be able to buy it at a very advantageous price.

Try the machine before you buy

Physically inspecting the forklift to make sure it is working properly is important for a good purchase, but it is not enough. It is also important to try it out before you buy. Turn it on and then perform a few manoeuvres. Even if you have certain warranties when you buy it, doing so will help you detect any faults that may not be physically noticeable. If you are having difficulty performing the checks, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for guidance.

A second-hand forklift truck

The life of a forklift truck is about 15,000 hours on average, but the hydraulic pump or battery pack of an electric truck, which are expensive parts, will need to be replaced often before 6,000 hours.

Important Tips:

All electric trucks: buy from a professional with a new battery pack or negotiate the price (there is rarely a clock to check the number of hours).

All thermal forklift trucks: choose gas over diesel, gas engines have a longer life and are less clogged. Check the engine breathing at the rocker cover cap.

All off-road forklift trucks: inspect all sides of all tires, they are very expensive and difficult to fill.

Prices of a forklift truck

Before you buy a forklift truck, you want to compare the prices of different forklift trucks, both new and used.

The price of a forklift truck will depend on the type and capacity of the chosen forklift truck and its origin, new or used.

Once you have decided which type of forklift truck is best suited for your handling, between stacker, order picker and ride-on truck, you can choose between new or used, depending on the case.

Also think about the simplified financial aid, which can help you pay for the cost of the equipment.

Hope this post helps you find the used heavy equipment or parts that will meet all your expectations and, above all, will fit perfectly into your budget. Remember to leave your comments below.