Many operators have no idea what their forklift service actually includes — and some service providers take advantage of that. This checklist covers what a proper 250-hour, 500-hour and 1000-hour service should include, so you can hold any provider accountable.
Pre-Service Visual Inspection (Every Service)
Engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, brake fluid — check and top up
Solid tyres for chunking or flat spots; pneumatic for correct pressure
Cracks, bends, wear on heel plates and tine tips
Lubrication, elongation, cracking or corrosion
Check under the machine and around cylinder seals
No cracks, bends or missing bolts
Engine Service Items
Every 250 hours on most diesel engines; 500 hours on newer LPG
Blocked air filters cause fuel consumption spikes
Diesel: every 500 hours. LPG: inspect regulator and vaporiser
Replace every 1000 hours or if misfiring
Every 2000 hours or 2 years
Alternator, fan and power steering belts for cracking or slipping
Hydraulic System
Dark or milky fluid means contamination — change immediately
Every 1000 hours or annually
Check for weeping seals on lift and tilt cylinders
Must be properly lubricated at every service
Cracking, swelling or rubbing on any hydraulic hose
Smooth operation under load at rated capacity
Brake and Drivetrain
Drum brakes: adjust shoes. Disc: check pad thickness
Every 2 years or when contaminated
Check and top up; full change every 2000 hours
Often overlooked — starvation causes bearing failure
Must hold the loaded machine on the rated slope
Electrical and Safety Systems
Wet-cell batteries: top up distilled water, check specific gravity
Should produce 13.8–14.4V at operating RPM
Machine should not move without operator in seat
Book a forklift service in the Vaal Triangle
We'll quote transparently and service to manufacturer spec — all makes and models.
Call 074 238 1260