Nearly all models of forklift are specially designed to utilized in warehouse or retail store environment. These models have very efficient engines but do not have much heft and their tires are meant just to operate on smooth surfaces. These kinds of forklift are not meant to be taken off a paved road. Forklifts which are usually used on construction sites must be designed to handle rough terrain. Fortunately, forklift companies usually manufacture at least one brand that fits in the rough terrain category. When choosing a rough terrain forklift, you must think about the following information:
Although electric engines are cheaper to operate and more eco friendly, they don't have what it takes to traverse uneven terrain and to get through piles of dirt. Gas engines are usually used for rough terrain forklifts. A gas engine offers sufficient power for driving up slopes and driving over obstacles. Speed is one more factor in selecting a gas engine. Lumber yards and construction yards generally have large work areas and that means more speed is needed to get around effectively. Forklifts that are manufactured to be utilized indoors normally have slower speeds for operating within narrow spaces. You will be wasting a lot of time with a slow engine when operating outdoors.
Pneumatic tires are filled with air and made of rubber. This is the best type of tires for driving over rough terrain as pneumatic tires are less likely to sustain damage. They are not that different from the tires on a regular vehicle. Tires which are made to be used indoors are not meant for driving on surfaces which are uneven. Pneumatic tires are designed to reduce the chance of a tire puncture.