Keeping your forklifts running smoothly during the spring and summer months is essential for productivity and long‑term cost control. Higher temperatures can place additional strain on lift truck components, so seasonal maintenance plays a critical role in protecting your fleet and reducing downtime.

Whether you purchase, lease, or rent your forklifts, a proactive approach to maintenance will help extend equipment life and improve overall performance. Use the checklist below to ensure your lift trucks are ready for the warmer seasons ahead.

10 Essential Forklift Maintenance Tips for Spring & Summer

1. Review Service History and Inspect Sealed Engine Areas

Begin with a review of your forklift’s service records. Then inspect sealed areas of the engine for oil leaks.
Operations in dusty, hot, or high‑usage environments may require more frequent maintenance intervals.

2. Inspect the Air Intake System

Ensure the air intake system is properly sealed and free from blockages. A clean, well‑sealed air intake protects engine performance and prevents overheating.

3. Check for Wear and Corrosion

Look over the forklift’s battery, electrical wires, spark plugs, and cables.
Corrosion or frayed wires can lead to performance issues or electrical failures—especially in humid summer conditions.

4. Examine the Cooling System

Inspect radiator hoses, clamps, and caps for secure attachment and signs of deterioration.
Proper cooling system function is crucial as temperatures rise.

5. Confirm Transmission Fluid Quality

Check that transmission fluid is at the correct level and appears clean in both color and odor.
Contaminated or low fluid can lead to unnecessary wear on the transmission.

6. Test the Forklift Brakes

Verify the brake pedal height, free play, and responsiveness.
Proper brake adjustment is essential for safe operation—especially when floors expand or become slick in warmer environments.

7. Inspect for Hydraulic Leaks

Check the pump, hoses, cylinders, and valves for leaks or worn components.
Hydraulic issues can cause reduced lifting capacity, slow response, or safety hazards.

8. Examine the Forks

Inspect forks for cracks, excessive wear, bending, or distortion.
Make sure fork height and thickness remain within manufacturer guidelines.

9. Test Steering Components

Check the condition of steering valves, hoses, and rubber parts.
Smooth steering is important for maneuverability and operator safety, particularly in busy summer warehouse traffic.

10. Check Tire Condition and Pressure

Inspect front and rear tires for:

• Proper inflation
• Cuts
• Chunking
• Shredding

Heat can accelerate tire wear, so regular monitoring helps prevent unexpected failures.

Make Forklift Inspections Part of Your Routine

Using a forklift inspection checklist on a daily or pre‑shift basis should be part of your regular fleet maintenance strategy. Routine inspections help ensure greater uptime, extend equipment life, and protect operator safety.

For support in developing a seasonal or year‑round maintenance plan, contact your local Mitsubishi forklift dealer for expert guidance.