Forklift trucks are essential tools in the operations of warehouses and construction site up and down the country. With so many different types available, it can be difficult to select the right machine for your needs. One of the most common and popular types is the diesel forklift truck. They have a reputation as reliable and durable machines, however, like any other piece of machinery there are pros and cons to owning and running diesel forklifts that you need to be aware of before making a decision. 

Pros of Diesel Forklifts

Reliability

Diesel engines are well-known for their reliability. They are designed to work in harsh conditions and are adept at handling heavy lifting. Another plus is that, unlike electric vehicles, there is no downtime for recharging – so they are always ready for action. This makes them an ideal choice for businesses that require their forklifts to work long hours without any breaks. 

Cost-effective

Diesel forklifts are generally more cost-effective than their electric and gas counterparts, especially when it comes to fuel costs. Diesel fuel is cheaper than electricity and gas, and diesel engines are more fuel-efficient than electric motors, which means you’ll save money in the long run.

Power

Diesel engines are powerful with the fastest acceleration speeds and can handle heavy loads and towing with ease. They are ideal for outdoor use and can handle rough terrain and gradients, making them an excellent choice for construction sites and other outdoor locations.

Durability

Diesel forklifts, and diesel engines in general, are sturdily built and well-known for their long life. They will consistently outlast gas or electric forklifts and so are worth considering if you don’t want to replace your trucks on a regular basis.

Visibility

Due to the absence of propane tanks and large batteries, there is nothing to obstruct the field of vision at the rear of a diesel forklift. Consequently, diesel engines tend to provide the best rear visibility of any forklift vehicle.

Cons of Diesel Forklifts

Emissions

Diesel engines emit more pollutants than electric motors, which can be a concern for some businesses, especially if indoor work is required. However, modern diesel engines are designed to be more eco-friendly than their predecessors, and many forklifts are now fitted with exhaust filters to reduce emissions.

Noise

Diesel engines are louder than electric motors, which can be a problem if you’re working in an enclosed space. This can be mitigated with proper ear protection, but it’s still something to consider when conducting your health and safety assessment.

Maintenance

While diesel engines require less maintenance overall, they do require regular oil changes and filter replacements. This can be more time-consuming than simply plugging in an electric forklift to charge.

Initial Cost

Diesel forklifts are generally more expensive than electric forklifts, both in terms of the initial purchase price and the cost of fuel. However, as mentioned earlier, they can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their fuel efficiency.

At Dawsongroup | material handling we know that having all of the information at your fingertips is crucial to being able to make the best decision for your business. Here we go through the pros and cons of diesel forklifts so you can make the best decision possible. We are always happy to have an informal discussion if you are looking for help and advice, so get in touch today.