Forklift Repair Toronto

For All Your Forklift Repair Needs In Toronto

While planned maintenance is always preferable to emergency repair, it is impossible to control this in all circumstances. For mechanical work on lift trucks Toronto businesses trust the professionals at Modern Forklift.

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Your equipment at some point will need repair and we at Modern Forklift can help many businesses in and around Toronto to get the repairs they need. While maintenance is always best, you can’t control everything and at some point you will need a repair and we can provide you a trusted source of repairs. We have trained certified mechanics to work on your forklift for and get it back to you in a reasonable amount of time to keep your business working and earning money for you.

What we offer

  • Work on all types of forklifts

    Electric, diesel, or liquid propane gas models. We have the knowledgeable expert mechanics that can do repairs to solve whatever problem you’re having with your forklift.  Even though we’ve all done it at some point, you shouldn’t put off repairing minor issues. Unfortunately these minor issues can and do turn into larger issues. If you want to get the complete lifespan out of your forklift and keep your safety record clean you need to get even minor issues repaired properly as soon as possible.

  • Fast reliable service is a must and we understand that.

    If your forklift is sitting in a shop it isn’t making you money and it may even be costing you in rental or leasing fees until it is back on the job. We will make sure your repairs are done reliably and we guarantee our work so that you know the repair has been done properly. Also if we estimate the job will take longer due to back ordered parts or other issues we will do our best to help you with a solution to keep your business up and running.

  • Expert technicians with the many types and models of forklifts.

    It is important for a trained certified mechanic to conduct the repairs and service on the forklift. Our mechanics are trained certified and qualified to work on any forklift, are able to explain any procedure that needs to be done, as well as tips on maintenance to reduce emergency repairs. Our reputation speaks for itself – for over 40 years, Modern Fork Lift has serviced all makes and models of equipment to keep Toronto area businesses up and running.

  • Clear communication is a key to our success and your satisfaction

    Our entire staff is dedicated to listening to you and addressing your needs. This type of open communication is what can help you head off an emergency because we know what to ask when you are having a problem. Our expert knowledge is your best defense against machinery break downs and poor functioning. We are only a call or click away to troubleshoot any issues you may be experiencing.

When your Toronto business has a forklift needing repair call on us for the best repairs you can get. Contact us to find out about our convenient forklift repair and service plans for your Toronto area business or to schedule maintenance for any make or model of lift truck, whether you purchased your machine from us or elsewhere.

 

Why our business for your repairs?


We believe in regular maintenance for ensuring the long life and proper functioning of your fork lift. Just like any vehicle or other piece of machinery, taking proper care of it through periodic spot inspections and regularly scheduled maintenance is the best way to get the most out of it. For that reason, we fit maintenance into your routine with a variety of service plans at reasonable prices. You get not only a dependable machine but so much more!

  • Greater productivity with optimal operation and less down time
  • Assured safety with everything properly adjusted and working right
  • Easier budgeting of expenses due to fewer emergency calls
  • Longer machine life and higher trade in value

Watch your forklift for clues that something may need attention. Spotting these signs and acting on them heads will save you loosing time and money on bigger and more costly issues down the line.

We Work On All Types Of Forklift Trucks

Regardless of the make, model or type of vehicle you use, we are able to provide the necessary solutions. Whether it’s a problem with your electric vehicle’s battery, the engine components of your diesel truck, or damaged cylinders in your LPG, we have mechanics with the expertise to solve your problem and get your vehicle back to the worksite.

In some cases, it might be tempting to hold off repairs for what seem like minor issues. But remember, that minor issues can develop into larger problems. For the safety of your employees and the ultimate lifespan of your vehicle it is best not to put off needed service.

We Offer Fast, Reliable Service

As business owners ourselves, we understand that you would much rather have your lift truck on the job site, earning money for your business than have it costing you money by sitting in our shop. That’s why we offer fast and reliable service – so you can get your forklift back and working for you. On the other hand, we will never sacrifice quality for speed. We’ll guarantee our work because we want you to have the peace of mind that the job has been done properly. If we ever estimate that your truck will take longer to fix than usual due to back-ordered parts etc., we will do our best to offer a solution. A short term rental, for example is one way to ensure that your business does not experience a work stoppage or delay.

Reputation For Excellence

A company doesn’t stay in business for over forty years unless it is doing something right – or a whole lot of things right! Our commitment to best-in-class customer service, along with expert knowledge and quality products have given us a reputation for excellence.

This is a reputation that we are proud of – and so, we continue to provide top quality service to all of our customers. When your Toronto business has a forklift that is in need of repair, you can count on us to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Expert Forklift Technicians at Modern Forklift

There are many types of forklift service that should only be conducted by a trained and certified mechanic. Each of our technicians therefore is fully qualified to work on any vehicle that they repair. Having only the best and most qualified technicians in our shop also means that they will be on hand to explain any procedures that need to be done.

They’ll also be able to give you maintenance tips in order to help you prevent possible future emergency repairs.

Most Common Forklift Technical Issue And Preventive Measures

Leaks

Forklifts have many fluid systems including cooling, steering, and hydraulic systems. The problem is these components go through tear and wear and can lead to leaks. On average, it costs $702 to repair leaks.

The most common causes of leaks are:

  • Blown tube or hose
  • Loose-fitting or clamp
  • Leaking O-ring
  • Crack cylinder

While not common, leaks can be caused by:

  • A bad engine seal
  • Bad planetary gear seal
  • Bad control valve seal
  • Loose oil filter

Every leak is a potential safety issue for operations with a zero-tolerance policy for fluids on floors. Even where this policy does not exist, fluid accumulation can lead to slips and accidents.

How To Prevent Leaks

Since the majority of leaks are caused by blown hoses, you need to regularly check the condition of the hoses. Hoses that are worn are at a high risk of failing. Hoses that travel up and down with the forklift mast experience more wear and tear. Pay close attention to them.

Loose fittings and clamps must also be checked. Checking their condition regularly will ensure you catch a problem on time before it leads to leaks.

Leaky O-rings and cylinder seals are harder to predict. They wear over time and leaks can occur when you least expect. You have to keep an eye on the fittings or O-rings.

Travel & Lift Problems

When the forklift mast won’t go up or the lift won’t stay running, it poses problems to the management and operators alike. It costs money in terms of lost productivity and high repair costs. The average cost of travel and lift repairs is $428.

The most common causes of travel & lift problems are:

  • Broken wires
  • Malfunctioning contactors or switches
  • Weak or dead battery
  • Speed set too low
  • Fuel system problems

In rare cases, the problem can be caused by:

  • Debris in the hydraulic pump
  • Locked up brake
  • Valve blockage
  • Bad motor

Broken wires are the main cause of travel and lift problems. Wires break due to heat, age and movement. The hotter the wires get the more brittle they become. When paired with aging and movement, the brittle wires snap easily and lead to myriad problems.

How To Prevent Travel & Lift Problems

The first thing you need to do is tape the exposed wires. Adding an electrical tape or good insulating material to exposed wires and keeping the movement of the components to the minimal will help.

Taking care of your batteries will also help. Keep them watered and charged. Doing so will prevent battery issues that can lead to travel and lift problems.

Last but not least, you have to adjust the fuel system and remove gunk. Draining the regulator periodically will help clear the build-up of gunk.

Accessories: Horns, Lights And Travel Alarms

For safety and operational purposes, forklifts come with a combination of horns, travel alarms as well as lights. However, like all ‘things’, these essential accessories can stop working suddenly. On average you can expect to spend $207 on all accessory repairs.

The most common causes of accessory problems include:

  • Worn or dirty components: light bulbs, horn contacts or pins
  • Damaged or malfunctioning headlight, travel alarm assemblies or taillights
  • Broken wires

In rare cases, the problems can be caused by:

  • A blown fuse
  • Missing mounting hardware
  • Misaligned or malfunctioning switch

OSHA requires that forklifts have a working horn. A problem with the horn must be fixed immediately. As for the lights and travel alarms, it all depends on where the forklift will be used. For example, if the forklift is used in areas with low light, the headlights must be functioning properly.

How To Prevent Accessory Problems

The horn contacts and pins can be cleaned during regular maintenance intervals. You should also grease using di-electric grease to reduce metal-on-metal wear. However, over time these parts will degrade until the horn becomes inoperable. You should change the horn before it wears out completely. This is because if the horn is the warning device, OSHA considers a truck with no horn unsafe.

Proper operator training can help reduce issues. This is because a major cause of light and travel alarm problems is operator-inflicted damage.

Error Codes & Check Engine Lights

Just like with a car, forklifts also have the check engine light. At times, the presence of this light is followed by the engine failing to work. Other times it is followed by nagging problems that never go away. The most common causes of the error codes and check engine lights are:

  • Bad electrical component: contact, switch or sensor
  • Broken wires
  • Weak or dead battery
  • Fuel mixture

The less common causes are:

  • Faulty control handle
  • Bad motor
  • Dirty motor brushes

How To Prevent Error Codes

The error codes and check engine lights are very hard to predict. This is because problems with broken wires, contactors, sensors, and switches tend to happen when we least expect. Limiting heat, debris and movement can, however, help reduce the chances of these components from acting up.

A problem with your batteries may cause error codes. That is why you need to keep the batteries properly watered and charged. Refrain from using the batteries until they are fully charged.

Last but not least, you need to keep the fuel system clean. The fuel system is the main cause of problems. Keeping it clean will help prevent error codes from displaying. Whenever you get an error code, always keep a record. That way you will be able to tell when one code popups in a row.

Forklift Won’t Start

There are times when the forklift will just not start. The problem is mostly caused by a dead battery. There are also other issues that can cause a forklift not to start. The most common issues are:

  • Weak or dead battery
  • Fuel system problems. This can include dirty components or leaking regulator
  • Bad starter
  • Broken wires

In rare cases, the start problems can also be caused by:

  • A bad gear selector
  • No fuel
  • Blown fuse
  • Bad seat belt/seat belt switch
  • Tracker system fault

The regulator is the part where liquid fuel is turned into gas. Regulators fail when they are filled with gunk. They can be filled with dust and debris from the fuel tank. Over time the debris clogs the regulator. When it is clogged, less fuel gets to the engine. This leads to engine start and run problems.

How To Prevent Battery Problems

The key to preventing battery problems is proper maintenance. With batteries used in internal combustion forklifts, there is not much you can do to prevent problems.

With electric forklifts, the batteries are designed to be recharged when they are 80% discharged. You also need to keep the batteries watered and wait until they are fully charged before you start using them.

Battery Problems

Electric lifts use batteries as the main source of power. The internal combustion trucks use the battery to power the starter motor. Batteries play a huge role in the operation of a forklift. The main causes of battery problems include:

  • Weak or dead battery
  • Melted or damaged connector
  • Bad ALT

Less common causes of battery issues include:

  • Bad water filling system
  • Battery leak
  • Lifting eyes bent on the battery case

While all the problems listed above do not impact safety, you have to handle batteries with care. Since they are filled with acid, leaks from batteries need to be cleaned immediately. Coating the spills with baking soda can neutralize the acid and help prevent injuries. It is also good to wear the right protective clothing to prevent electrocution and injuries from the acid. You should also not attempt to lift the batteries without the proper equipment. The batteries of an electric forklift weigh a few hundred pounds.

How To Prevent No Start Problems

Installing a battery disconnect switch can help prevent dead batteries. Considering the battery powers multiple accessories including safety lights, headlights, coolers, and computers, installing a disconnect switch will help prevent these accessories from draining the battery.

Cleaning the fuel system can prevent start issues too. You need to make time for regular cleaning and maintenance.

Broken wires and bad starters are much harder to prevent. They don’t give warnings. When they are damaged, you need to replace them.

Running Rough

Running rough can be caused by backfiring, losing power, and spitting and sputtering. The majority of problems relating to running rough are common with internal combustion trucks. With electric trucks, the issue was mainly caused by ‘losing power’. The main causes of rough running are:

  • Problem with the fuel system. This includes regulator leaking, VF voltage adjustment, throttle body, and a dirty fuel filter. The VF voltage is what governs the forklift’s air-to-fuel mixture. If the VF voltage is off there will be too much air or fuel getting to the engine thus causing rough running.
  • Dry or weak battery
  • Damaged wires

The issue can also be caused by:

  • Regulator vacuum hoses leaking or coming off
  • Bad alternator belt
  • Improperly installed fuel line
  • Bad wiring harness and engine control unit

A leaking regulator and loose vacuum hoses are a safety concern because of emissions.

How To Prevent Rough Running

One of the best things you can do to prevent rough running is to clean the fuel system. This should be done to get rid of grit and grime which accumulates during normal operation. Replacing fuel filters will also help prevent the rough running problem.

Battery issues cause rough running in electric forklifts. Ensuring the battery is watered regularly and charged fully will help.

Electrical Problems: Buttons, Switches And Controls

There are many issues that fall in the broad category of electrical. They include switches, wiring, buttons, and anything that is not a specific problem or did not affect operations. These issues are mainly caused by:

  • Malfunctioning switches
  • Missing or loose hardware
  • Bad wiring

They can also be caused by:

  • Debris
  • Bad spring
  • Blown fuses

Heat, dirt, and excessive dryness are the main factors that cause switches to go wrong. Some operating environments such as extreme heat, moisture, or debris are also harder on a forklift. Forklifts operating in these conditions experience more problems.

Electrical problems are a safety issue when they affect the operation of the equipment. For example, when a faulty belly button turns on an electric pallet jack. Such a switch has to be replaced immediately.

How To Prevent Electrical Issues

The most important thing you have to do to prevent electrical problems is to limit exposure to excess heat, moisture, and debris. Debris can compromise sensitive equipment, so you need to blow out your unit regularly to reduce problems. Keeping the various components dry, clean, and stationary will go a long way in preventing electrical problems. Don’t forget to cover exposed wires with tape or insulation.

Seat & Seat Belts

Not all forklifts have seats. Those that do must have the seats and seat belts working properly. This is because seats and seat belts are the last line of defense against operator injury in the event of a tip-over or collision. The seats have to be bolted down and the seat belts should be free of tears, rips, or fraying. In addition to that, if the truck has a seat switch or an interlocking seat belt, they have to be operable. If they are not working, they should be removed from service until the issues are fixed. On average it costs about $304 to have the seat and seat belt repaired.

The most common causes of seat and seat belt problems are:

  • Damaged or worn-out seat cushion or seat belt
  • Loose or damaged hardware
  • Damaged wires

How To Prevent Seat And Seat Belt Problems

Seats and seat belts are wearable parts. Getting on and off of them and buckling and unbuckling the seat belt causes them to wear. This is what causes them to degrade. Even so, you can extend the life of the forklift’s seats and seatbelts by ensuring operators don’t have sharp objects on them that can tear the seats. Not placing objects with sharp edges/protrusions on the seat while working can also help prolong the life of the seats and seat belts.

Cooling System Problems

The general rule about forklifts is the cooler you keep them the longer they will last. Heat is the main cause of problems for the forklift parts. This is more so when it comes to the transmission and engine. This is why you must address cooling system problems as soon as they arise. On average it costs about $635 to get all cooling system repairs.

The main causes of cooling system problems include:

  • Worn or clogged radiator
  • Bad water pump
  • Bad thermostat

Although not common, the issues can also be caused by:

  • Bad regulator hose
  • Fuel mixture out of adjustment
  • Cracked engine block
  • Loose hose clamps

How To Prevent Cooling System Problems

If the forklift is used in operations that involve the production of debris such as in paper mills and insulation manufacturing plants, the radiators are prone to get clogged quickly. To prevent cooling system problems, you need to blow out the radiator with air at least once every shift. This will keep them from getting clogged and improve cooling.

The other parts such as the water pumps and the thermostats are prone to degrading over time. They are harder to predict when they will fail. You should, however, have them replaced as soon as they start malfunctioning.

Why Choose Us?

We are Toronto’s best choice for forklift repair and servicing.

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES FOR USED FORKLIFTS

Forklift Fuel Options and Buying Considerations

There are two common types of forklifts available today – internal combustion engine forklifts popularly known as IC forklifts and electric forklifts. We’ll go over the pros and cons of these fuel options to help you make an informed decision.

What’s an electric forklift?

In recent years, electric forklifts have become widely recognized in the market. Today, they account for more than 60% of forklift sales in the region. This is perhaps due to the advanced technology that enables manufacturing of electric forklifts that are just as reliable in terms of performance and runtime as the combustion engine forklifts. These forklifts have newer and improved batteries, better motor technologies and improved voltage outputs.

With an electric forklift, you get to enjoy the following advantages:

  • The forklift is powered by electrical energy meaning that unlike other sources of energy like batteries or fuel cells, there’s no exhaust emission which could be potentially harmful to the […]

What forklift parts need to be replaced more often?

Forklift maintenance is important not only if you’re looking to save time and money but also reduce downtime and ensure all tasks are completed as scheduled. During maintenance, the technician may recommend replacement of parts that are worn out or faulty in order to improve the performance of your forklift. There are certain forklift parts that are often replaced during maintenance. We’ll go over them below and briefly explain what function the parts serve and why they may need to be replaced.

Air filters

Like in most systems, air filters in forklifts serve the purpose of making sure the air running through the forklift’s internal combustion engine is clean and free of contaminants. A functional air filter is what ensures that dirt and debris don’t find a way into your forklift’s engine and affect its performance which is why it must be replaced often.

Forklift batteries

On average, forklift batteries in Toronto can last for 5 years […]

Forklift Maintenance Plans Guide

When you buy a forklift, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is choosing the appropriate maintenance plan. There are different maintenance plans offered by dealers. These can be broadly categorized as full maintenance and planned maintenance. With a planned maintenance plan, expect to pay a fee every month for servicing which is done at regular intervals. However, this monthly fee possibly doesn’t include any replacement parts or fixes that may be required during servicing. A full maintenance plan may cover all servicing requirements at a monthly fee.

The benefits of having a maintenance plan

If you’re keen on reducing downtime in your business, consider purchasing a forklift maintenance plan. With routine maintenance, you can catch problems early and increase your uptime by making sure technicians replace faulty parts quickly and effectively. When your forklift gets the care it needs consistently, you increase its lifespan. It will serve you for longer and more effectively. […]

How To Measure Forklift Fork?

Measuring the forklift fork is necessary when you want to make a replacement. This will ensure that you get the right size. It can be a challenging task especially to those making fork purchases for the first time. There are a number of companies that sell forklift forks and you can find them online. Once you have your measurements, it will be easier to place your order. If you are not sure how to go about the process, consider the following tips.

First, you need to measure the size of the carriage. To do this, measure from the top to the bottom of the carriage.

The Dimensions, From Top To Bottom, Are Usually Classified Into

  • Class 2: 16 inches
  • Class 3: 20 inches
  • Class 4: 25 inches

After Measuring The Size From Top To Bottom, Next You Have To Measure The Following Dimensions.

  • Measure from the front of the fork to the […]

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