How to buy a used forklift ?

AL · 2004-02-02T23:45:31+00:00

Does anyone have any advise on buying a used forklift? I know what to lookfor in a used car, but I don't have the slightest idea about what to lookfor in a used forklift.I've been looking for a sit-down 3000-5000 pound model. But there are somany models to choose from and such a wide price range--less than $1000 fora beat-up old one from a classified newspaper ad, around $5000 for one witha new paint job from a dealer, and around $10,000 for a factory rebuilt one.Which brands are good? Some are made by automakers (Toyota, Nissan,Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Daewoo) and construction vehicle companies (Komatsu,Caterpillar). I assume these are probably good. But what about companieslike Yale, Clarke, Hyster, etc? I've never heard of them. Are there brandsto stay away from?Is there any advantage to getting an electric model instead of agas/propane/diesel one?It seems that dealers like to specify the number of run hours instead of themodel year. What is a reasonable figure?What is a side shifter? I realize it moves the load side to side, but inwhat direction? If I were sitting in the seat and activated the sideshifter, would it move the load parallel or perpendicular to my shoulders?If I get an electric model, is there any advantage to a 3-phase charger overa single-phase charger? (Yes, I have 3-phase power.) Can electricforklifts be charged indoors? Do the batteries give off hydrogen gas like acar battery?I realize cushion tires are intended for indoor use on a concrete floor.But can they be used occasionally on asphalt (for example if I need to gooutside to unload a truck)?My forklift will sometimes sit unused for extended periods of time. I knowthat gasoline and diesel fuel can grow a fungus when left to sit. Does thisapply to propane? I also realize that I can rent forklifts (and even havethem delivered). But I can't always predict my needs in advance and so Iwant to have one available when a need arises at the last minute.A long, long time ago when I was in...