Most models of forklift are specifically designed to used within warehouse or retail store environment. These kinds of forklifts have very efficient engines but do not have much heft and their tires are meant only to operate on surfaces that are smooth. These kinds of forklift are not meant to be taken off a smooth surface. Forklifts that are great for construction sites need to be designed to handle rough terrain. Fortunately, forklift companies generally produce at least one brand which fits in the rough terrain category. When selecting a rough terrain forklift, you need to think about the following information:
While 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 normally used for rough terrain forklifts. A gas engine offers enough power for driving over obstacles and driving up slopes. Speed is another thing in selecting a gas engine. Construction sites and lumber yards normally have large work areas and that means greater speed is required to efficiently get around. Forklifts intended for indoor use often have slower speeds for operating within narrow spaces. You will be wasting a lot of time with a slow engine when working outdoors.
Pneumatic tires are made of rubber and filled with air. This is the ideal kind of tires for driving over rough terrain because pneumatic tires are less likely to be damaged. They are not that different from the tires on a standard vehicle. Tires that are manufactured to be utilized indoors are not meant for driving on surfaces that are uneven. Pneumatic tires are designed to reduce the chance of a tire puncture.