how to change hydraulic oil in forklift

Forklift is an essential tool in many industries. It is used to move heavy loads from one place to another. Just like all machines, forklift requires regular maintenance to function correctly. One of the crucial maintenance practices for a forklift is changing the hydraulic oil. Hydraulic oil is the most crucial part of the forklift's hydraulic system. It helps in providing the necessary force which is used to lift heavy loads. In this article, we will discuss how to change hydraulic oil in forklift.

Preparation

Before changing the hydraulic oil in the forklift, you need to prepare for the process. Here are the steps to follow:

Gather the necessary tools

You will need a few tools to change the hydraulic oil in the forklift. Some of the tools include a wrench, oil filter wrench, oil drain pan, and new hydraulic oil. Ensure that you have all the necessary tools before you start the process.

Locate the hydraulic oil reservoir

Locate the hydraulic oil reservoir in the forklift. The reservoir is normally located on the side of the forklift. It may have a sight glass or dipstick for checking the oil level. You should also check the forklift manual for the specific on the location of the hydraulic oil reservoir.

Check the oil’s temperature

Check the oil’s temperature before changing it. The temperature should not be too high, or else it may lead to burns or cause oil spillage.

Changing the Hydraulic Oil

Here are the steps to follow when changing the hydraulic oil in the forklift:

Step 1: Drain the old oil

Use the oil drain pan to collect the old hydraulic oil. Locate the drain plug beneath the hydraulic reservoir. Loosen the drain plug with the wrench to drain the old oil completely. You may also have to remove the filter to drain all the oil.

Step 2: Replace the oil filter

Remove the old oil filter, and replace it with a new one. Apply a little of the new oil on the oil filter’s O-ring to ease installation.

Step 3: Refill the hydraulic oil

After draining the old oil and replacing the oil filter, refill the hydraulic reservoir with the new oil. Check the forklift’s manual for the correct oil to use. Fill it up to the recommended level, and make sure you do not overfill.

Step 4: Check for leaks

After refilling the hydraulic oil, check for any leaks and fix them immediately. You can use a clean cloth to clean the sides of the hydraulic reservoir and check for any leaks.

Maintenance Tips

After changing the hydraulic oil, here are some maintenance tips to follow:

Check the forklift’s manual for the recommended oil change interval

Most forklift manufacturers recommend changing the hydraulic oil after a certain period. Check the forklift’s manual for the recommended time.

Check the oil level regularly

Check the hydraulic oil level at least weekly or whenever you are using the forklift. Maintaining the right oil level helps in preventing damage to the hydraulic system.

Clean the hydraulic reservoir regularly

Regular cleaning of the hydraulic reservoir helps in preventing debris accumulation, which may cause damage to the hydraulic system.

Conclusion

Changing hydraulic oil in the forklift is a critical maintenance practice that should not be ignored. Regular changing of the hydraulic oil helps in keeping the forklift in top-notch performance. Follow the above steps for quick and efficient oil changing. Also, follow the maintenance tips mentioned above to keep the hydraulic system in good condition.