Guide to Purchasing Diesel Forklifts

Guide to Purchasing Diesel Forklifts

Forklifts are essential pieces of equipment for lifting and moving heavy loads. Before purchasing a forklift, it is important to understand the differences in gas and model types to determine what best suits your specific needs.

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Fuel type is one of the most significant specifications to consider when selecting a forklift. Diesel models offer various benefits that may make them the ideal choice for your applications. This guide provides insight into the advantages and challenges of this equipment, helping you make an informed purchasing decision.

Advantages of Diesel Forklifts

Explore the benefits of diesel to determine whether this type of forklift is suitable for your job site.

High Power & More Loading Capacity

Diesel-powered equipment is known for its high-performance capabilities. Diesel forklifts deliver more drive line torque than propane or electric models at a given RPM. For heavy-duty jobs, diesel models are often the best option.

Suited for Outdoor Use

The higher drive line torque of diesel engines enables them to perform better in outdoor job sites. While propane models can operate outdoors, diesel forklifts are particularly popular due to their ability to handle rugged terrain and operate in wet or damp conditions.

Easy Refueling & Less Downtime

Refueling diesel forklifts is quick and uncomplicated compared to electric models. If you run out of fuel on the job site, you can refill the tank and resume work without waiting for a battery recharge. This ease of refueling reduces downtime and is advantageous for operations with multiple shifts.

Better Visibility

Diesel forklifts lack a tank on the back, unlike propane models, which enhances the visibility for operators. Increased rear visibility is critical for navigating crowded work sites. For teams that regularly operate in busy environments, this safety feature can be a significant advantage.

Longevity with Less Maintenance

Generally, diesel engines outlast propane counterparts and typically require less scheduled maintenance. If you're looking for a long-lasting investment, diesel forklifts can provide a worthwhile return.

Disadvantages of Diesel Forklifts

While diesel forklifts have numerous advantages, it's essential to consider their disadvantages to make an informed decision. If you opt for a diesel forklift, prepare for the following potential challenges.

Noise and Fumes

Though diesel forklifts offer outstanding power, they produce dense fumes and generate significant noise, which can be harmful to workers. The fumes are not safe for long-term inhalation, making diesel models generally unsuitable for indoor work, although they are less problematic outdoors.

Bulky Design

Diesel forklifts are typically bulkier, which can limit maneuverability. If your applications require navigating tight spaces, electric or propane forklifts may be a better choice.

On-Site Fuel Storage

Storing diesel fuel may necessitate bulk tank storage, which can be costly and subject to municipal regulations. You'll also need to consider potential liabilities associated with keeping diesel fuel on your property.

Signs a Diesel Forklift Is Right for You

When purchasing a forklift, it is crucial to evaluate your applications and working conditions to determine if this fuel type is the best fit.

Generally, diesel models are an excellent choice for teams that:

• Work outdoors
• Handle high load capacities
• Have space for a fuel tank
• Face busy worksites and require quick refueling

Discover the Benefits of Diesel Forklifts at Springer Equipment

Springer Equipment offers a wide range of used forklifts for any budget. With the numerous advantages of diesel forklifts, this fuel type can be an excellent selection for your next purchase while enjoying the benefits at a lower cost. Contact our team today with any questions you may have.

How Much Diesel Does a Forklift Use Per Hour?

A common question prospective forklift owners ask is how much diesel fuel a unit consumes per hour of operation.

Similar to cars, forklift manufacturers test unit performance and provide estimates of fuel consumption; however, several factors can affect a forklift's fuel consumption during operation.

This week’s blog details the diesel consumption of standard Hyster 2T & 3.5T counterbalance forklifts while briefly examining common factors influencing fuel consumption.

How Much Diesel Fuel Does a Forklift Consume?

Globally recognized forklift manufacturer Hyster provides the following example of diesel consumption.

The highly popular, versatile Hyster XT forklift series can consume between 2.7L and 3.6L of diesel per hour, depending on lifting capacity and engine type.

The company is the world's best 5 ton forklift diesel consumption per hour supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all your needs. Our highly specialized staff will assist you in finding the product you require.

Fuel consumption values listed above are the average results from an A

MIL

268C test course. Variations of plus or minus at least 20% can be expected, depending on duty cycle and operator driving habits.

Factors That May Affect Forklift Diesel Fuel Consumption

Several factors can impact a forklift's fuel consumption.

The following are four key factors:

1. Size and Weight of Loads

The size and weight of loads being lifted significantly influence the fuel a forklift consumes during operation. Generally, a forklift consumes more fuel to lift heavier loads or reach higher distances due to increased energy requirements.

2. Travel Distances

Forklifts that travel long distances while fully loaded are likely to consume more fuel due to the extended travel of heavy loads. To minimize fuel consumption, we recommend conducting a site survey to optimize the locations of pick-up and drop-off zones, as well as travel routes within your facility, ensuring they are not unnecessarily long.

3. Operator Behavior

The manner in which an operator drives a forklift can greatly affect its fuel consumption. Training operators on best practices is essential for finding the right balance between productivity and performance.

Some operator best practices include:

• Turning off the machine when not in use: An idling forklift continues to consume fuel at a reduced rate. If left running idle for extended periods or repeatedly throughout a shift, its fuel consumption will increase without generating productivity.
• Gradual Acceleration: Operators are trained to smoothly depress the accelerator pedal for gradual acceleration, rather than quickly, as faster acceleration consumes more fuel.

4. Preventative and Routine Maintenance

Planned maintenance keeps a forklift functioning optimally and can also contribute to lower fuel consumption. Properly maintaining or replacing old parts, such as tires, can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Damaged or under-inflated tires require operators to drive the forklift harder, demanding more from the engine, which increases fuel consumption and decreases efficiency.

For diesel forklift owners, telemetry systems such as ForkTrack from Adaptalift Group's technology partner Speedshield Technologies can monitor and provide accurate fuel level readings for single or fleet lift trucks. By taking fuel level readings at the start and end of shifts, fleet managers and owners can identify trends in fuel consumption and determine whether the unit is operated efficiently.

For more information on maximizing your forklift's fuel consumption or to learn how your fleet can benefit from ForkTrack fuel monitoring, contact us at 13 22 54 or fill out our contact form.

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