Forklift Pre-op Check
Nil defect
so far
Fluid leaks
Check underneath and around the truck for any oil, fuel, or hydraulic fluid leaks.
Engine oil level
Check dipstick — oil between min and max marks. Top up if needed.
Coolant level
Check coolant reservoir — between min and max. Do not open cap when hot.
Fuel / LPG / battery charge
Sufficient fuel or charge for the shift. LPG cylinder secure and not leaking.
Battery (electric) / LPG connections
Battery terminals secure, no corrosion, electrolyte level correct. LPG hose undamaged.
Tyre condition
No cuts, chunking, or excessive wear. Solid tyres: no flat spots or splits.
Wheel nuts / fixings
All wheel nuts present and tight. No cracks in wheel rims.
Fork arms condition
No cracks, bends, or wear at heel. Fork thickness at least 90% of original. Forks level and equal height.
Fork pins and latches
Retaining pins and safety latches in place and undamaged.
Mast chains
Chains lubricated, no broken links, equal tension both sides. Anchors secure.
Mast rollers and rails
Rollers rotate freely, no excessive wear. Rails clean and undamaged.
Hydraulic hoses and fittings
No cracks, chafing, or leaks. Fittings tight. Hoses not kinked or rubbing.
Tilt cylinders
No visible leaks. Pins and bushes secure.
Seat and seatbelt
Seat secure, adjusts correctly. Seatbelt present, undamaged, latches and retracts.
Overhead guard
Fitted, undamaged, all fixings present and tight.
Load backrest extension
Fitted where required, undamaged, securely attached.
Horn
Sounds clearly when pressed.
Lights and indicators
All working — headlights, tail lights, indicators, strobe/beacon.
Warning devices
Reverse alarm / blue spot light working. Any additional safety devices operational.
Steering
Smooth operation, no excessive play. Power steering working.
Service brake
Pedal firm, truck stops smoothly and in a straight line.
Parking brake
Holds the truck on a slope. Applies and releases correctly.
Lift and lower controls
Smooth operation, no jerking. Forks lower under gravity when lever released.
Tilt controls
Mast tilts forward and back smoothly. No drift when lever released.
Attachment controls
Any fitted attachment (side-shift, clamp, etc.) operates correctly.
Dashboard warning lights
No unexpected warning lights illuminated after start-up.
Brakes operational check
Test service and parking brake at low speed in a safe area.
Mast lift / lower / tilt
Raise forks to full height, lower, tilt forward and back — smooth, no unusual noise.
General condition
No unusual noises, vibrations, or smells. Bodywork secure. Data plate legible.
Records are stored permanently in line with DVSA requirements.