A forklift must be inspected well and given a test run before buying it. This applies especially to trucks being bought on the Internet. It is really vital to find potential problems with trucks obtained from businesses online.
Starting the engine from cold is a great idea. Note whether there is excessive smoke and the ease with which the engine turns over. This is especially vital with trucks that have IC engines.
The test run must include a check of the truck's performance in tough situations. An operator who is qualified can maneuver the truck in forward and reverse, up the ramp.
You can carry out your own inspection of an IC engine truck. On a clear area of floor, run the truck around for several minutes while a qualified operator tests the hydraulic functions. After that, examine the ground beneath for indications of fluid leakage. Even seemingly minor leaking can lead to serious problems that will be pricey to fix later on.
The masts and chains must be inspected by a trained person. Check with and without a load that the mast operates smoothly. Watch for sticking or 'binding' of the mast. A warning sign is play in the mast channels or between the fork carriage and mast. One more is creeping down or creeping forward of the mast when loaded. These could be symptoms of issues with valve, seals or ram.
If the truck is not new, the mast might have been changed at some time. Make sure that the mast and any fitted attachments adhere to the rating plate on a truck. Make certain that the sideshift is not sticking when loaded.
Looking closely at the thickness of the heel for damage or wear should be included in the inspection. The manufacturer of the truck specifies minimum thickness. A loose fit could mean the carriage or hanger points are worn. Watch for cracks on the arms at mountings and heels.