Used Trucks • Updated Oct 18, 2025

Buying Used Forklifts: 9 Checks Before You Sign

A clean paint job can hide expensive problems. This field-tested inspection helps you avoid surprises and buy a truck that matches your load, mast height and aisle width.

1) Hours & Duty Cycle

• Verify the hour meter vs. wear on pedals/controls and mast rollers.
• Ask where it worked (indoor warehouse vs. outdoor yard). Heat and dust accelerate wear.
• Match the truck to your spec: capacity, mast height, collapsed height, aisle width, attachment needs.

2) Maintenance Records

• PM sheets, major repairs, battery replacements, accident history.
• Patterns matter—recurring cooling or controller faults are red flags.

3) Mast, Rollers & Channels

• Raise/tilt to full height if possible; listen for binding/chatter.
• Check roller flat spots and channel scoring; carriage stop bolts present and tight.

4) Chains & Forks

• Inspect chain stretch and rust; tension should be even left/right.
• Fork heel thickness ≥ 90% of original; no cracks; locking pins/keepers present.

5) Hydraulics

• Look for leaks at cylinders, hoses and fittings.
• Operate lift/tilt/side-shift—jerky or foamy oil suggests air, pump or valve issues.

6) Drive & Steer

• Tires: remaining tread (%), chunks, cuts, flat spots; duals matched; solid vs. pneumatic appropriate for site.
• Steer axle pins/bushings; excessive play = early rebuild.

7) Brakes & Parking Brake

• Consistent pedal feel, straight stops; no shudder.
• Parking brake must hold on an incline.

8) Electrical & Controls

• Lights, alarms, seat switch, inching/neutral start all functional.
• Inspect harnesses and connectors for heat damage or DIY splices.

9) Power Source

Electric

• Battery age and type; for flooded, check watered properly and look for acid staining.
• Connector condition and cable heat marks; charger model and settings match battery.

LP/Diesel

• Starts clean, idles smoothly, no smoke under load; cooling system stable.
• LP regulators/filters maintained; hoses not cracked.

Scoring Template (Optional)

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

We’ll evaluate the truck end-to-end, document issues with photos, and estimate any near-term repairs so you know true cost of ownership before you sign.