Now that the weather appears to have decided to stay warm (fingers crossed) there’s something you need to be aware of on your gasoline-powered forklift to prevent it from running hot.
Your radiator. It needs fluids, it needs clear airways, it needs to know that you care- and now is the perfect time to show it.
Start with your fluids- in the radiator itself and the overflow make sure your anti-freeze/coolant is topped off.
Now, consider giving your forklift radiator a good blowing out.
Get your hands on a good Ingersoll Rand Air Compressor and turn your forklift off. Always wear eye protection and a respirator or mask and you’re ready to start blowing out some serious gunk from your radiator.
You should probably do this outside, if you can. If you have to do it inside, make sure you’re in a clear area, that no one is standing around and that there’s nothing that flying debris could damage.
Check the radiator for large debris. You’ll be surprised at the amount of big items that can get lodged in there. Remove them by hand if you can.
With the air compressor, start blowing out the radiator- but don’t neglect the corners- gunk gets caught up there, too. If you just pay attention to the center of the radiator, you’re missing important parts where dust, dirt and debris can gather.
IMPORTANT: Be very careful around the cooling fins with the compressed air. If you damage the fins, it could cost you more money in the long run. Repairs aren’t cheap.
Blow out the radiator from both sides, not just the front.
Consider modifying your daily checklist to include a visual inspection of the radiator and fluids. Those extra few seconds can keep your forklift running cool, and save you money down the line.
Our guys can answer any questions you might have about this, or just about anything forklift-related. Drop us a line!