Maintenance
The first thing to look for when you are in the second-hand forklifts market is the maintenance of the machinery. Once you select the machine you consider ideal, you should check the maintenance history of the forklift. In this case, ask for the maintenance records. If the records are not available, you can do a mechanical inspection prior to the purchase.
Inspection
Once you are certain of the forklift you need, start the inspection process. First, check the forklift performance when the mast is loaded to the maximum load and when it is empty. Then tilt the mast back and forth to check if there is excessive play between the carriage and the mast. Thereafter, check for leaks from the transmission, mast and till cylinders, engine, and the radiator. Please note that it is advisable to check for these leaks after the forklift warms up. Lastly, check the brakes while it is fully loaded. A good forklift should stop smoothly within one and a half truck lengths.
Do a Test Drive
Essentially, second-hand forklifts dealers allow for test drives, in order to ascertain the functionality of the machinery. Take this chance to inspect the outward appearance of the machinery. When you are satisfied with the outward appearance, drive the forklift through a tight figure eight pattern in both forward and reverse gears. A good forklift should do accurate tracking and have a steady steering. Thereafter, check for the axle alignment of the wheels.
Spares Availability
After you have done the tests, find out if the spare parts are readily available in the market and at what prices. In most cases, second-hand forklifts can be a challenge to maintain because some forklifts might be out of the market or the manufacturers have made recent modifications, making the spare parts hard to find in the market.
Service Backup
Ensure that the supplier of second-hand forklifts that you are dealing with can offer you adequate service back up in case of breakdown. Enquire if the supplier can provide continued maintenance services and timely repairs. The repair programs can save you maintenance cost and reduce the rate of breakdown. Get a service contract before purchasing the forklift.