Diesel Forklifts

Diesel forklift trucks are most suitable for outdoor operation, and for long term use. The Diesel engine is the most fuel efficient as it tends to operate longer than the other fuel types.

The engine produces a higher torque compared to gas powered trucks, which improves their performance on gradients and increases the power available for towing or scooping aggregates.

Furthermore, there’s no danger of suddenly losing power as there would with gas or electric powered engines. This is specifically important when using hydraulic attachments such as rotating clamps, forward tipplers and fork spreaders.
Unlike electric models which require overnight charging, diesel forklifts can be used at any time without a break. With a gauge indicating when the fuel tank is nearly empty, there are no sudden stoppages that can occur with gas powered forklifts, and refilling rakes just a few minutes.

Diesel Forklift FAQs

1) Are diesel forklift trucks suitable for indoor use?

If you need a forklift suitable for indoor use, we recommend either gas or electric. That’s because diesel forklifts produce fumes which makes them more suitable in an outdoor open environment.

2) What is the difference between a gas and diesel forklift truck?

Diesel powered forklift trucks offer the most amount of torque compared to their gas or electric counterparts. Diesel engines are better suited for heavy-duty applications as the torque they produce allows the machine to handle greater weights than gas models; that’s why most of the bigger capacity machines are diesel powered.

3) How does a diesel engine work?

A diesel engine works by using a combination of air and fuel to ignite the piston, rather than an electrical spark like a gasoline engine. The diesel fuel is injected directly into the cylinder where it combusts with the high-pressure air and produces mechanical energy which turns the crankshaft, powering the vehicle.

4) Are diesel forklift trucks more expensive to operate than gas powered models?

Diesel models are generally less expensive to operate in comparison to gas powered engines due to their higher efficiency and lower maintenance costs. While initial purchase prices for diesel forklifts may be slightly higher, they typically have a longer lifespan and require fewer repairs over time so operating costs can quickly become lower than those associated with gas powered trucks.

5) Can a diesel forklift truck be used for long-term outdoor operation?

Yes, diesel powered forklifts are ideal for long term outdoor operations due to their higher torque and power output. They are also equipped with fuel gauges that indicate when the tank is nearly empty, preventing sudden stoppages while working outdoors. Additionally, they require minimal maintenance compared to other fuel types so can be used reliably over extended periods of time.

6) Is it safe to refuel a diesel forklift truck with gasoline?

No, refuelling a diesel forklift truck with gasoline can cause serious damage to the engine and should never be attempted. Think of a diesel forklift as similar to a diesel car; diesel fuel and gasoline are two distinct substances with different properties and compositions, so attempting to put one type into an engine designed for the other is not recommended.

7) Do all diesel forklifts have the same engine power output?

No, while all diesel-powered forklifts will have similar features (such as a turbocharger or direct injection system), the exact power output of each model may vary according to its design. Higher capacity models tend to offer more horsepower which allows them to lift heavier loads and operate more efficiently.

8) Why are some people hesitant to buy a diesel forklift truck?

Diesel powered forklifts require regular maintenance and can be more expensive than gas models upfront, which is why some people may hesitate when it comes to making a purchase. Additionally, some older diesel engines may emit higher levels of exhaust fumes which need to be taken into account if the vehicle is going to be used indoors.

9) How can I tell if my business needs a diesel forklift truck?

You should consider your business’s operational needs and decide whether or not a diesel-powered model would be most suitable for the tasks you have in mind. For example, a diesel forklift is ideal for heavy-duty applications such as construction sites or industrial warehouses. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter-duty model to move smaller loads around then a gas-powered truck may be more suitable.