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Who makes the best rider electric forklift truck?

If you’re looking for ways to cut costs related to the handling and moving of goods within your warehouse or showroom, an electric forklift truck can deliver a large percentage of the power found in its propane-guzzling counterpart. Better yet, it does so in an environmentally-friendly, cost-effective manner.

Rider electric forklift truck reviews

Though there are a wide range of rider electric forklift trucks available on the market, three stand out for their ability to provide a combination of impressive lift capacity and durable stability. These include:

• Toyota 7 series 4-wheel large capacity cushion model – This Toyota rider electric forklift truck features an impressive 8,000 to 12,000 lb lifting capacity with on-demand, electronic hydraulic power steering. Saving the battery while providing quiet, responsive operation, this functionality is also shown to lessen operator fatigue and boost the durability of the unit’s power steering. The Toyota’s AC drive system comes in either 36- or 48-volt configurations and  produces more responsive acceleration, higher top speeds and better output than DC motors.
• Clark GEX – The latest in a series of rugged electric lift trucks, the Clark electric forklift incorporates advanced usability into its design, requiring only one receptacle for a single battery connector. With a load capacity that ranges between 4,000 to 6,000 lbs., it features an AC power source that results in optimal energy efficiency and drive as well as an electronic and highly-programmable dashboard that allows the operator to select from four unique performance modes to maximize output and battery charge.
• Nissan – QX- 4-wheel – Rated at 6,000 pounds, the Nissan electric forklift includes an advanced LCD monitor with on-board diagnostics, enabling simple and straightforward usage and PIN access codes to prevent unauthorized operation. Built to work in unpredictable environments, the QX comes with six-disk wet brakes and dual-steer tires for safely transporting loads on wet or sandy surfaces. In addition, it’s been design with a weight-adjustable, full suspension seat to provide enhanced comfort during extended operation. Plus, it’s available with an optional freezer package for refrigerated environments.

What to look for in a used electric forklift truck

Regardless of your industry, there are a few primary things to look for when you’re comparison shopping, especially when buying a used rider electric forklift truck. The first thing to be aware of when purchasing an electric forklift truck is wear and tear. Make sure the overhead guard is adequate and free of any cracks, dents or other damage that could potentially affect its integrity. Similarly, the forks and mast should be solid, without cracks, bends or other signs of damage.

Mostly, you should be concerned with the state of the battery of the used rider electric forklift truck that you’re considering. When evaluating, ensure that battery connections are all tight and free of corrosion or excessive grease. Also make sure that the battery cover is secure and the battery itself is in good working order and sustains a lasting charge, as a new battery can run anywhere from $1,200 to $8,000 (delivered), depending on the model selected. Avoid this extra cost by being extremely diligent while checking out used machinery.

Last, try to look for an electric forklift truck which has regenerative braking. Regenerative braking recharges the batteries every time the driver applies the brake by using the momentum of the lift truck to generate power. Similar to the technology you’d find on a hybrid car, the continuous starting and stopping of an electric lift truck makes it an ideal candidate for this application – keeping the lift charged while saving electricity.