Fuel Efficient Forklifts: Is it Time to Make the Switch?

Choosing the wrong gas for forklifts can be disastrous. Luckily, there are some tips on how to choose the right gas for your forklift and keep it running smoothly!

Since forklifts are used to transport heavy loads of materials on a regular basis, choosing the right type of gas for your machine is important in order to keep it running smoothly. First, check the vehicle’s operator manual to see what type of fuel it recommends. Then read your forklift owner’s manual and look up gas compatibility in the appendix section. If it is a diesel engine, then you should use diesel fuel. If it is an electric motor, then you should use gasoline or natural gas. Next, make sure you are using a reputable brand of gasoline that is specifically made for automotive vehicles with diesel engines or LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). Finally, always follow any instructions listed on your local regulations regarding safety while refueling as well as recommendations from the supplier of your forklift about how much fuel should be added at one time.

Diesel fuel has few benefitis over gasoline, but some of the benefits include increased power and torque. The downsides are that it is more expensive than regular gas and very smelly compared to other fuels (particularly natural gas.)

LPG has a number of advantages over diesel fuel because it produces less fumes so there’s not as much risk in case an emergency happens while refueling. However, LPG burns cleaner which means you may need to have your exhaust system adjusted annually at a cost of $300-$500 per year (depending on the size). You also can experience higher maintenance costs with this type of fuel for forklifts because they require special equipment called Gas Purifiers ($2000) or Trap-Gas Systems($5000), both designed to prevent hydrocarbons from getting into the air.