Why Is My Forklift Overheating?

Troubleshooting an Overheating Forklift

If operators observe the temperature gauge rising into the "red zone," the forklift should be taken out of service immediately to prevent damage to essential components. Three items to troubleshoot are:

Broken Fan or Fan Belt

The forklift’s fan and fan belt sit under the operator’s seat and toward the back of the unit. Items falling through cracks and under the hood, especially papers from behind the operator seat, are culprits in damaging the forklift fan or fan belt. Materials picked up from the floor can also entangle around the components, causing breakage or corrosion.

Debris In the Radiator

The radiator is vulnerable to debris picked up from the facility floor or during outside operation. Debris must be cleaned out periodically to ensure good air flow.

Coolant Level

A forklift with low coolant levels is at risk of overheating. Checking the coolant level should be a regular part of the planned maintenance schedule. Additionally, the water pump, which circulates coolant through the radiator, should be inspected for any signs of leaks or cracks.

Overheating a forklift can endanger its engine and other critical components. The fan, fan belt, radiator, and coolant level work together to manage engine heat, so it’s essential to inspect these parts regularly for any signs of damage.

Can OSHA Issue a Citation for Operating a Dirty or Overheating Forklift?

An overheating forklift is in violation of the OSHA law. If a forklift is covered with oil, dust and debris along with a plugged radiator, proper operating temperature cannot be maintained; therefore, UL classification requirements are not retained.

OSHA Federal Workplace Law Related to Forklift Overheating

OSHA regulations are in place for good reason: forklifts operate indoors and around flammable or potentially explosive materials, making them a potential ignition source.

OSHA CFR1910.178(q)(10): Industrial trucks shall be kept in a clean condition, free of lint, excess oil and grease.

OSHA CFR1910.178(q)(9): When the temperature of any part of a truck is found to be in excess of its normal operating temperature, thus creating a hazardous condition, vehicle shall be removed from service and not returned to service until the cause of such overheating has been eliminated.

Prevention of Forklift Overheating

Planned forklift maintenance helps companies stay in compliance by ensuring safer, cleaner operations. Technicians use compressed air to clear debris from radiators, under floor plate covers, electric motors, engines, axles, and transmissions. In dirtier environments, steam or pressure washing may be necessary. Regular maintenance checks are also an ideal time to verify that the forklift is operating efficiently and at the correct temperature.

Contact ProLift for service and repair of your overheating forklift. Our sales consultants are available to discuss maintenance programs designed to identify issues early on.