Most types of forklift are specially designed to used within warehouse or retail store environment. These kinds of forklifts have really efficient engines but do not have much heft and their tires are meant only to operate on surfaces which are smooth. These types of forklift are not meant to be taken off a paved road. Forklifts which are great for construction sites should be designed to handle rough terrain. Luckily, forklift companies commonly make at least one brand which fits within the rough terrain category. When selecting a rough terrain forklift, you should consider the following information:
Although electric engines are cheaper to operate and more eco friendly, they don't have what is required to traverse uneven terrain and to get through piles of dirt. Gas engines work great for rough terrain forklifts. A gas engine provides enough power for driving up slopes and driving over obstacles. Speed is another factor in the choice for a gas engine. Construction sites and lumber yards normally have large work areas and that means more speed is required to efficiently get around. Forklifts designed for indoor applications normally have less speeds for operating within narrow spaces. You cannot afford to waste time using a slow engine when working outdoors.
Made of rubber and filled with air, pneumatic tires are the best type of tire for rough terrain driving because these tires are less likely to suffer any damage. They are not that different from the tires on a standard motor vehicle. Tires made for indoor use are not meant for driving on uneven surfaces. Pneumatic tires are designed to reduce the chance of a tire puncture.