The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift during the early 20th century. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts since that time.
Beginning
In the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located in Buchanan, Michigan State, was the maker of the very first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the equipment, they asked Clark to build more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machines that same year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor in the year 1923. Referred to as the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During the year 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that function on gasoline, diesel, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts must be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads which are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.