How to buy a lift truck

Like any other type of complex industrial equipment, lift trucks can present a real challenge when it comes time to replace an existing unit or add a new one. With the seemingly endless number of models and options available, it can be a daunting process. But those who buy fork lifts on a regular basis agree that a systematic approach can ease the job and prevent mistakes.

It seems obvious that the primary concern in specifying a lift truck should be that it matches the applications it's needed for. Yet, many trucks are purchased mainly along the lines of: "The one we have seems to do pretty well. Let's just get another one like it." Or, "Talk to a few of our drivers and see what they recommend."

While driver input is important, it's pretty far down the list of the criteria that need to be met.

Presented here, therefore, is a variety of information to help you cover all the bases and arrive at a decision that satisfies your needs. To simplify things a little, we've aimed at counterbalanced rider lift trucks. While most of this information also applies to other types of fork lifts, there may be additional considerations.

The following lists are a comprehensive look at factors you should define or evaluate. While they may not lead you to a specific solution, they will ensure that you have covered all the major questions and will help your truck dealer guide you to the best truck for your needs.

Basic work area considerations

Start your analysis with the physical conditions in which your truck will have to operate. If possible, project needs and conditions 3 to 5 yr ahead. Typical lift truck lives are 6 to 8 yr, but many plants are able to extend those useful lives to double that or beyond.

Particular attention needs to be given to the surfaces on which the truck will travel because of their impact on tire selection and performance, driver comfort, load jostling, and other factors.

Hazardous locations impose special requirements for EX-rated equipment.

• Inside use
  –Dock (truck, railcar loading/unloading)
  –Warehouse (top rack height)
  –Production
  –Floor surface
• Outside use
  –Concrete
  –Asphalt
  –Gravel
  –Dirt
  –Covered areas (clearance)
  –Overhead obstructions
• Both inside and outside use
• Environment
  –Wet or damp
  –Contaminants
  –Hazardous
  –Sanitation
  –Ventilation
• Building
  –Lowest overhead clearance
  –Door dimensions
  –Min. aisle widths
  –Weight restrictions (elevators or structures)
• Ramps, inclines, or grades
• Bumps
• Other

In addition to defining the heaviest weight a truck will need to lift, consider the shapes, sizes, and centers of gravity of the loads it will be handling. If load centers are beyond the standard 24 in. used for determining truck capacity, you may have to talk to the manufacturer about recalculating ratings. Remember, too, that special lift attachments will affect the permissible load weights. In many cases, you should consider moving to a larger truck.

• Load dimensions
• Load centers
• Load types (pallets, totes, rolls, drums, etc.)
• Required special attachments
• Weights
• Stacking heights
• Special handling requirements (fragile,shifting, etc.)

Some trucks are used a few times a day; others are used practically nonstop over multiple shifts. These differences in usage place different demands on equipment. Make sure the truck you are considering is up to the task.

• Shifts/day
• Hours/shift
• Days/week
• Heavy use
• Medium use
• Light use

Most plants prefer to standardize their trucks for several reasons: driver familiarity with controls, maintenance knowledge and familiarity, parts stocking requirements, favorable past experience, and dealer support are among them.

• Service availability
• Parts availability
• Brand preference
• Dealer preference/proximity
• Standardization

Truck type is not always an option. Certain operating conditions will determine the type. For example, electric trucks are not suited for continuous outdoor use; IC trucks are seldom recommended for extensive indoor use. Operations in explosive environments require EX-rated trucks.

• Stand-up
• Sit-down
• Electric
  –3-wheel
  –4-wheel
• Internal combustion
  –LPG
  –CNG
  –Gasoline
  –Diesel
• Tires
  –Cushion
  –Pneumatic
• Special purpose
  –Rough terrain
  –EX-rated
  –Other

Here's where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. These "details" can make or break a successful lift truck application. Some examples: Combined turning radius and load size must be compatible with the minimum aisle width to be navigated. High freelift may be necessary for double stacking in truck trailers or railroad cars. Powered fork adjustments may pay off in productivity or safety. Higher speeds may be a productivity plus or a safety minus. Smoother operation of SCR hydraulic controls might prevent product damage. In nearly every case, there are tradeoffs between desirable characteristics and cost justification.

• Load capacity
• Rated capacity
• Maneuverability
  –Turning radius
  –Minimum aisle width with load
• Mast
  –Extended height
  –Freelift
  –Stages
  –Extra tilt
  –High freelift
  –Fork adjustment
• Fork length & style
• Drive
• Electric
  –AC or DC
  –Voltage
  –Battery size
  –Battery removal (side, overhead)
  –Brush wear indicators
• IC
  –Horsepower
  –Engine manufacturer
• Speeds
  –Forward with max. load
  –Reverse with max. load
  –Lifting (loaded)
  –Lowering (loaded)
• Max. grade (loaded)
• Drawbar pull
• Directional controls (foot, lever)
• Hydraulics
• Controls
  –Manual
  –SCR or transistorized
• Accumulator

Ergonomics have become an important consideration. And there may not be an ideal solution. Examples: Drivers typically prefer softer tires, but increased wear can be a problem. Controls that are compatible for a taller operator may cause discomfort for a shorter person. Operators who frequently must mount and dismount their vehicles may prefer stand-up to sit-down configurations.

• Visibility
• Controls
• Seating
• Driver fit
• Noise level
• Ride characteristics
• Ease of getting on/off
• Cab
• Heat
• A/C

Some of the "bells and whistles" now offered as options may be worth the cost, others not. Only you and your drivers can make these decisions. Here are just a few of the more popular options.

• Load handling attachment
• Lights
• Signals, alarms
• Fire extinguisher
• Load stabilizer
• Load scale
• Safety belt or harness
• Load backrest

Before giving the final okay to any vehicle, have it analyzed by your maintenance people. A good test is to have them run through their preventive maintenance tasks on the new truck to estimate the time needed for each one. Also, have them examine the new truck with a list of maintenance problems they have dealt with on older equipment. Many maintenance concerns will quickly be brought to light.

• Accessibility
  –Panel removal
  –Brush replacement
  –Engine/motor access
  –Contactors
• Hydraulics
  –Brand
  –Controls
• Pivot/wear points
• Mast
  –Rollers
  –Alignment
• Filters
• Lubrication points
• Estimated PM times
• Recommended service intervals
• Warranties
• Manufacturer/dealer technical support
• Parts availability
• Component suppliers

It is always a good idea to have a new vehicle brought to your plant for testing. However, this is not always possible. Alternatives are to visit another plant where the truck you are considering is being used or to test the vehicle at the dealership. The more testing and inspection your drivers and mechanics can do, the better.

In any case, the decision on what truck to buy should include the advice of the operators and mechanics who will have to live with the vehicle. The final specification may well be a compromise, but it stands the best chance of resulting in the purchase of a long-lived, productive vehicle.

PLANT ENGINEERING extends its appreciation to the following people who provided extensive information in the preparation of this article:

Dave Knecht, Industrial Vehicle Service Center, 3M Plant Engineering Services, 3M, Ames, IA Timothy J. Rubash, Plant Engineering Supervisor, Industrial Vehicle Service Center, 3M Plant Engineering Services, 3M, Ames, IA John Desmond, Asst. Superintendent, Maintenance Services, S & C Electric Co., Chicago, IL David Kittle, Manager, Plant Engineering, Denso Manufacturing Michigan, Inc., Battle Creek, MI Jerry Russell, Reliability Supervisor, Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC, Robinson, IL