5 Common Forklift Problems & How We Fix Them
Is a broken forklift stopping your warehouse work?
We know that every minute of downtime costs your business money. Whether it’s a refusal to start or a hydraulic leak, forklift issues are more than just an annoyance—they are a safety hazard.
At Superior, we understand the urgency of getting your equipment back on track. As a leading provider of Heavy machinery repair services in Johor Bahru, we have seen it all. From minor electrical glitches to major engine overhauls, our team is equipped to diagnose and solve the most stubborn machinery issues.
Here are the 5 most common problems we fix for businesses in JB.
1. Starting Issues (Battery & Ignition)
The Problem: You turn the key, and… silence. Or perhaps just a clicking sound. This is the #1 complaint we receive. For electric forklifts, this is often due to a dead battery or corroded connections. For diesel or gas forklifts, it could be a faulty starter or a blocked fuel line.
How We Fix It:
Our diagnostic process starts with a full battery load test. We clean corroded terminals and check the electrolyte levels. If the battery is healthy, we move to the ignition system, testing the starter motor and alternators.
2. Mast and Lifting Failures
The Problem: The “mast” is the lifting mechanism of the forklift. Common signs of failure include the forks not raising, lifting slowly, or jerking while lowering. This is usually a hydraulic pressure issue or a worn-out lift chain.
How We Fix It:
We inspect the hydraulic fluid reservoir for low levels or contamination. Our technicians will identify if the hydraulic pump is losing pressure or if the cylinder seals are leaking. As experts in heavy machinery repair services in Johor Bahru, we carry high-grade replacement seals and fluids to restore smooth lifting power immediately.
3. Steering Difficulties
The Problem: If your operator complains that the steering wheel is hard to turn or the forklift drifts to one side, this is a major safety risk. It is often caused by low steering fluid, worn-out gears, or misaligned tires.
How We Fix It:
We perform a pressure test on the steering pump and inspect the steering gears for rust or wear. If the issue is hydraulic, we flush the system and replace the fluid. We also realign the rear wheels to ensure precise maneuverability in tight warehouse aisles.
4. Worn-Out Tires and Suspension
The Problem: Forklifts carry massive weight, and the tires take a beating. “Chunking” (pieces of rubber falling off), flat spots, or worn tread can cause dangerous vibrations that damage the forklift’s axle and transmission.
How We Fix It:
We don't just change tires; we find out why they wore out. Are your floors uneven? Is the driving too rough? We replace them with heavy-duty industrial tires that match your warehouse floor. If your forklift is constantly breaking down due to age, it might be time to view our new forklift models.
5. Oil and Fluid Leaks
The Problem: Seeing a puddle of oil under your parked forklift? Leaks can originate from the radiator, transmission, or hydraulic hoses. Ignoring a leak can lead to engine overheating or total hydraulic failure.
How We Fix It:
We use UV dye detection to pinpoint the exact source of the leak, even if it’s a hairline crack in a hose. We replace damaged O-rings, tighten loose fittings, and replace cracked hoses with heat-resistant industrial-grade lines.
Need Reliable Heavy Machine Service in Johor Bahru?
Don’t let downtime cost you money. Contact Superior Heavy Equipment for fast, reliable and professional
diagnosis and repair.