Your forklift parts Seattle dealer wants you to know how to purchase these components when it comes time to make some replacements. Buying forklift parts is a great way to save money while still getting the maximum use out of your heavy equipment. Here are some tips you should consider when buying these parts so you can make an educated and informed decision.
Check the Compatibility
One of the first things you need to be aware of when buying parts for your forklift is the compatibility. Not all forklifts are made the same way and some parts are not compatible with certain makes and models. When you are searching for parts, have the make and model of your forklift written down so you can provide the right information. If you get a part that’s not compatible with your particular forklift, you won’t be able to use it and you’ll have to start your search all over again.
Inspect the Parts
You should never buy replacement parts for heavy machinery like a forklift without inspecting the parts first. Before buying you should look for mechanical damage and look for heavy aesthetic damages, too. While aesthetics isn’t your priority when purchasing from your Seattle forklift parts dealer, it could be a sign that the unit wasn’t used properly and could have some hidden damage.
Safety Requirements
The safety of the replacement part is essential when making replacements. Choosing the wrong part could result in damage to your forklift, but it could also cause injury to your workers or even fatalities if the situation is conducive to such danger. Make sure the parts have the proper safety requirements before making your purchase, or you could be asking for trouble down the road.
Old Parts
While buying older forklift parts may save money, they aren’t the best option for you. If the parts are too old, there are several issues you may be facing. For one thing, these parts probably won’t last very long. This means that you could be spending good money on something that you’ll need to replace again very soon. Instead, spend a little extra for some parts that aren’t as old. Also, if the parts are too old, they might not meet the proper testing and certification requirements. If you get caught using parts that haven’t been tested or certified, you could end up putting your workers and others at risk and also paying a huge fine. As a general rule, don’t purchase parts that are older than five years and definitely don’t purchase them if they are older than seven years for the protection and safety of your workers.