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Forklift Preventative Maintenance Checklist

Template Name: Forklift PM (Default)
Total Items: 103
Sections: 12

This document contains the complete forklift preventative maintenance checklist with all sections, items, and descriptions. Use this as a reference for expanding or modifying the checklist.


1. Visual Inspection

Item 1: Oil/Coolant Leaks

Description: Inspect under and around the forklift for signs of oil or coolant leaks.

Item 2: Carriage, Mast & LBR Assembly

Description: Examine the carriage, mast, and load backrest for damage, cracks, or deformation.

Item 3: Forks and Fork Pins

Description: Check that forks and fork pins are straight, undamaged, and securely attached.

Item 4: Mast Chains, Rollers & Hoses

Description: Inspect mast chains, rollers, and hoses for wear, proper tension, and leaks.

Item 5: Tire & Wheel Condition

Description: Inspect tires and wheels for cuts, excessive wear, or missing lug nuts.

Item 6: Seat & Seat Belt Condition

Description: Ensure seat and seat belt are present, undamaged, and functioning properly.

Item 7: Decals & Capacity Plates

Description: Verify that all safety decals and capacity plates are present and legible.

Item 8: Overhead Guard Condition

Description: Check the overhead guard for bends, cracks, or missing hardware.

Item 9: Check Cylinders for Leaks

Description: Inspect all visible hydraulic cylinders for leaks or damage.


2. Engine Compartment

Item 1: Blow Out Engine Compartment

Description: Use compressed air to clean debris and dust from the engine compartment.

Item 2: Check Condition of Air Filter

Description: Inspect and replace the air filter if dirty or clogged.

Item 3: Change Engine Oil & Filter

Description: Drain engine oil, replace with new oil, and install a new oil filter as specified.

Item 4: Check hood Latch, Hinges & Hood Strut

Description: Confirm hood latch, hinges, and strut function smoothly and securely.

Item 5: Inspect Air Intake Hoses & Clamps

Description: Examine air intake hoses and clamps for cracks, leaks, or loose fittings.

Item 6: Check Ring Gear Condition

Description: Inspect ring gear for visible damage or abnormal wear.

Item 7: Check Hood Insulation & Hood Condition

Description: Ensure hood insulation is intact and hood is free of damage.

Item 8: Engine Noise / Smoke / Idle RPMs

Description: Start the engine and check for abnormal noises, smoke, or incorrect idle speed.

Item 9: Exhaust System / Muffler / Catalyst

Description: Examine the exhaust system, muffler, and catalyst for leaks, noise, or damage.

Item 10: Check for Engine Oil Leaks

Description: Look for evidence of engine oil leaks under and around the engine.

Item 11: Check Vacuum Lines / PCV Valve

Description: Inspect vacuum lines and PCV valve for cracks, leaks, or blockages.


3. Electrical Inspection

Item 1: Check Headlights, Strobe, Taillights

Description: Verify all headlights, taillights, and strobe lights operate correctly.

Item 2: Clean Battery Terminals / Load Test

Description: Clean corrosion from battery terminals and perform a battery load test.

Item 3: Inspect Wire Harness / Connections

Description: Check wire harnesses and electrical connections for wear or loose fittings.

Item 4: Check Neutral Safety Switch

Description: Test the neutral safety switch for correct operation.

Item 5: Check All Gauges & Hour Meter

Description: Ensure all dashboard gauges and the hour meter function accurately.

Item 6: Condition of Fuse Panel / Relay Box

Description: Open and inspect the fuse panel and relay box for corrosion, damage, or missing fuses.

Item 7: Inspect Alternator / Record Voltage

Description: Inspect the alternator for damage and record operating voltage output.


4. Hydraulic Inspection

Item 1: Inspect Fluid Level & Quality

Description: Check hydraulic fluid level and assess fluid for contamination or discoloration.

Item 2: Inspect Pump / Control Valve

Description: Visually inspect pump and control valve for leaks or damage.

Item 3: Check Hydraulic Valve Levers

Description: Operate all hydraulic levers to ensure smooth and proper function.

Item 4: Check Pump Drive Shaft & U-Joints

Description: Inspect the pump drive shaft and U-joints for wear or looseness.

Item 5: Remove & Clean / Replace Tank Breather

Description: Remove the tank breather, clean or replace as needed.

Item 6: Inspect All Hoses & Fittings

Description: Examine all hydraulic hoses and fittings for cracks, leaks, or abrasion.

Item 7: Inspect Cylinders for Leaks

Description: Check hydraulic cylinders for oil leaks or physical damage.


5. Brake

Item 1: Check Fluid Level & Quality

Description: Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for proper level and clear, uncontaminated fluid.

Item 2: Test PB Operation, Check Cables

Description: Test parking brake operation and inspect cables for wear or binding.

Item 3: Test Service Brake Operation

Description: Depress the service brake and confirm the forklift stops smoothly and promptly.

Item 4: Check Pedal Pads & Inching Pedal Cables

Description: Inspect pedal pads for wear and inching pedal cables for proper function.

Item 5: Check Wheels & Cylinder for Leaks

Description: Look for brake fluid leaks around wheel cylinders and brake assemblies.

Item 6: Check Brake / Inching Pedal Linkage

Description: Inspect brake and inching pedal linkage for looseness or damage.

Item 7: Check Brake / Inching Pedal Free Play

Description: Verify correct amount of free play in brake and inching pedals.


6. Steering

Item 1: Inspect Steering Cylinder for Leaks

Description: Check steering cylinder for hydraulic leaks or visible damage.

Item 2: Inspect Gear Box & Steer Column

Description: Inspect the steering gear box and column for proper operation and leaks.

Item 3: Check King Pins & Spindles

Description: Check king pins and spindles for excessive play or wear.

Item 4: Test Steer Wheel Bearings

Description: Spin and rock steer wheels to check for noisy or loose bearings.

Item 5: Check Steer Axle Mounts & Stops

Description: Ensure steer axle mounts and stops are secure and undamaged.

Item 6: Check Steering tie Rods & Pings

Description: Inspect tie rods and pins for looseness or excessive wear.

Item 7: Check Steer Wheel Bearings

Description: Verify steer wheel bearings turn smoothly without noise or resistance.

Item 8: Inspect Steer Wheel Lug Nuts / Rim / Cap

Description: Check steer wheel lug nuts for tightness and inspect rim/cap for damage.

Item 9: Check Steering Hoses at Cylinder & Box

Description: Inspect steering hoses at both the cylinder and box for leaks or wear.


7. Differential & Transmission

Item 1: Check Fluid Levels & Condition

Description: Inspect differential and transmission fluid levels and assess for contamination.

Item 2: Check for Abnormal Noise

Description: Listen for unusual noises from differential or transmission during operation.

Item 3: Check Drive Wheel Bearings & Lug Nuts

Description: Inspect drive wheel bearings for play and verify lug nuts are tight.

Item 4: Check Mounts & Bolts

Description: Check that all mounts and bolts are secure and undamaged.

Item 5: Check for Leaks

Description: Inspect the differential and transmission for signs of oil leaks.

Item 6: Check Drive Shaft & U-Joints

Description: Examine drive shaft and U-joints for excessive play or wear.

Item 7: Check Shift Lever Linkage / Cables

Description: Test shift lever linkage and cables for proper adjustment and smooth operation.

Item 8: Replace Fluid & Filters per OEM Spec

Description: Replace differential and transmission fluids and filters according to manufacturer specification.


8. Ignition System

Item 1: Test Ignition Switch

Description: Turn the ignition switch to verify smooth operation and proper start.

Item 2: Check Coil / Coil Packs

Description: Inspect ignition coil or coil packs for damage or signs of arcing.

Item 3: Check Distributor Cap & Rotor

Description: Remove and check distributor cap and rotor for wear or corrosion.

Item 4: Check Spark Plug Condition & Wires

Description: Remove and inspect spark plugs and wires for fouling or damage.


9. Mast & Carriage

Item 1: Check Lift Chains & Anchors

Description: Inspect lift chains and anchors for wear, proper lubrication, and correct tension.

Item 2: Check Cylinders for Leaks

Description: Examine all mast cylinders for hydraulic leaks or damage.

Item 3: Check Cylinder Brackets

Description: Inspect cylinder brackets for secure attachment and absence of cracks.

Item 4: Check Hose Pulleys & Chain / Hose Guards

Description: Check that hose pulleys, chain guards, and hose guards are intact and functional.

Item 5: Check Tilt Cylinder Mounts & Pins

Description: Verify tilt cylinder mounts and pins are secure and show no excessive wear.

Item 6: Check Trunion Bushings / Mounts

Description: Inspect trunion bushings and mounts for wear or looseness.

Item 7: Check Forks, Pins & Carriage Condition

Description: Examine forks, pins, and carriage for cracks, bending, or other defects.

Item 8: Check Hoses for Leaks

Description: Inspect hydraulic hoses on mast and carriage for leaks, abrasion, or damage.

Item 9: Check Mast Shims & Side Play

Description: Check mast shims for tightness and look for excessive side play in mast.

Item 10: Check Carriage & Mast Rollers

Description: Inspect rollers for flat spots, wear, or improper rotation.

Item 11: Check Mast Rails for Wear

Description: Look for wear, cracks, or bending along mast rails.

Item 12: Check Side Shift Bushings

Description: Inspect side shift bushings for excessive wear or movement.


10. Cooling System

Item 1: Blow Out Radiator

Description: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from the radiator fins.

Item 2: Coolant Level, Condition & Leaks

Description: Check coolant level, ensure coolant is clean, and inspect for leaks.

Item 3: Check Radiator Condition & Shroud

Description: Inspect radiator and fan shroud for damage or obstructions.

Item 4: Check Water Pump for Leaks & Play

Description: Check water pump for coolant leaks or excessive shaft play.

Item 5: Check Belt Condition & Tension

Description: Inspect all drive belts for cracks, fraying, and correct tension.

Item 6: Check Fan Blade Condition

Description: Examine fan blades for cracks, chips, or loose mounting.

Item 7: Cooland Good To (°F)

Description: Verify coolant protection is adequate for expected low temperatures using a tester.


11. Fuel System

Item 1: Check LP Tank, Hoses & Fittings

Description: Inspect LP tank, hoses, and fittings for leaks, damage, or loose connections.

Item 2: Drain LPG Regulator

Description: Drain condensation from the LPG regulator per manufacturer instructions.

Item 3: Check LP System for Leaks

Description: Use leak detector solution or sniffer to check LP system for leaks.

Item 4: Check LPG Lockoff Operation

Description: Test LPG lockoff valve for proper engagement and operation.

Item 5: Check Carburetor & Linkages

Description: Inspect carburetor and throttle/choke linkages for smooth movement and secure attachment.

Item 6: Check throttle Pedal Linkages / Cable

Description: Check throttle pedal linkages and cable for free movement and secure connections.

Item 7: Check Governor for Proper Operation

Description: Inspect and test governor for correct operation and smooth throttle response.

Item 8: Change Diesel Fuel Filters

Description: Replace diesel fuel filters according to the service schedule.

Item 9: Drain Water Separator / Sediment Filter

Description: Drain water separator and sediment filter of any collected water or contaminants.


12. Final Inspection

Item 1: Test Horn Operation

Description: Press horn button to verify loud, consistent sound.

Item 2: Does Back Up Alarm Sound in Reverse

Description: Shift into reverse and confirm the backup alarm activates.

Item 3: Test Brake Lights / Turn Signals / BU Lights

Description: Check that all brake lights, turn signals, and backup lights function properly.

Item 4: Test Strobe Light for Proper Operation

Description: Activate the strobe light and ensure it flashes correctly.

Item 5: Test Seat Belt

Description: Buckle and unbuckle seat belt to confirm proper latching and release.

Item 6: Test Operator Presence System

Description: Confirm that the operator presence system disables movement when the seat is unoccupied.

Item 7: Check All Work Lights

Description: Turn on all work lights and confirm they illuminate properly.

Item 8: Test Both Service & Parking Brake

Description: Apply both brakes and ensure they hold the forklift stationary.

Item 9: Test Forward & Reverse Travel

Description: Drive forklift forward and in reverse to confirm smooth operation.

Item 10: Test All Hydraulic Functions

Description: Operate all hydraulic controls and ensure smooth, correct response.

Item 11: Test Seat Belt Alarm

Description: Confirm seat belt alarm sounds if the seat belt is not engaged during operation.

Item 12: Wipe Down Forklift, Dash Area

Description: Clean the forklift and dashboard area of dirt and debris.

Item 13: Install PM Sticker

Description: Place the preventative maintenance sticker in the designated area to indicate service is complete.


Notes

  • All items are marked as required in the system
  • Condition ratings are not pre-set in templates (set during PM completion)
  • This checklist serves as the default template for forklift preventative maintenance
  • Items can be expanded or modified as needed for specific equipment requirements

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