A Simple ABCD Guide To Maintenancing Your Warehouse Hydraulic-Lift Pallet Jacks

The hydraulic pallet jacks that you keep around for everyday use in your warehouse do a lot of heavy lifting for sure. To make sure these industrial tools have the ability to provide you with seamless operation for years to come, it is best to get familiar with the basic maintenance tasks that should be performed regularly. Thankfully, there is a simple ABCD rule set that you can use going forward to help you keep your hydraulic pallet jacks maintained and functioning properly.

Always ensure there is adequate lubrication.

There are several points on a pallet jack that should be regularly lubricated. While the hydraulic housing will keep the main lift lubricated, the rest of the moving parts will need to be manually addressed. Add small amounts of lubrication around the wheel bearings, near the base of the handle where the crank moves during lifting, and even around the pivotal base where the steering takes place.

Be sure you clean the wheels regularly.

The wheels are just as much the livelihood of a good hydraulic pallet jack as the rest of the tool. They are made of heavy metals, such as iron or steel, but if the wheels get encrusted with debris and dirt, the jack will not roll smoothly. Make it a habit to check the wheels about once a week and sweep them clean with a dry scrub brush.

Check the hydraulic system for cracks and fissures.

The hydraulic housing of the pallet jacket contains oil that keeps the pumping system lubricated inside. If there are small cracks or fissures, this oil will leak out and additionally, the jack will not be able to hold pressure to keep a hefty pallet elevated off of the ground. Visually inspect the hydraulic pump area for signs of cracks and fissures or leaking oil. If you spot any problems, go ahead and have the hydraulic oil housing replaced.

Don't delay replacing worn forks of the jack.

The forks of a pallet jack are made of steel and carbon steel, but they can wear down over time. The tips of the forks, which should be slightly angled downward and pointed for easy entry into a pallet, will start to wear down after years of use. Do not put off replacing these forks when they start to show signs of wear. the more worn they are, the harder the jack will have to be pushed in order to get it into a pallet properly, which can cause even more damage.

For more information about pallet jacks, visit Garland's, Inc.


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