1987 Yale LPG Forklift Manual

The 1987 Yale LPG Forklift is a versatile industrial material handling vehicle powered by liquefied petroleum gas, featuring robust construction, reliable LPG engine system, hydraulic lifting mechanism, safety controls, and ergonomic operator compartment. This manual covers essential information for safe operation, maintenance procedures, technical specifications, and troubleshooting guidelines for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Pre-Operation Inspection 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. LPG System Operation 7. Hydraulic System 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Transport 10. Regulatory Compliance 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: LPG engine system, hydraulic lifting mechanism, mast assembly, forks, operator compartment, safety features.

Feature	Description
LPG Engine	Industrial-grade LPG powered engine with reliable performance
Lifting Capacity	Designed for various load capacities up to specified limits
Mast System	Hydraulic mast with multiple lift heights
Operator Compartment	Ergonomic design with essential controls and safety features
Safety Systems	Overhead guard, seat belt, horn, emergency brake
LPG Tank	Secured LPG fuel tank with safety valves
Hydraulic Controls	Lift/lower, tilt, side-shift functions
Transmission	Manual or automatic transmission options
Braking System	Service brake and parking brake systems
Steering	Power steering for maneuverability

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Wear appropriate PPE: safety shoes, high-visibility vest, hard hat.
Conduct pre-operation inspection before each use.
Never exceed rated load capacity.
Keep hands and feet inside operator compartment.
Use seat belt at all times during operation.

WARNING! Forklifts can be dangerous if operated improperly. Only trained and authorized personnel should operate this equipment.

Pre-Operation Inspection

Complete daily inspection checklist before operation.

Check LPG fuel level and connections for leaks.
Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation.
Test all controls: steering, brakes, hydraulics.
Check fluid levels: engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant.
Verify safety equipment: horn, lights, seat belt.
Inspect forks and mast for damage or wear.

CAUTION! Do not operate if any safety issues are identified during inspection.

Specifications

Model Year: 1987
Power Source: LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
Lifting Capacity: Various models available (check specific model plate)
Max Lift Height: Model dependent
Mast Type: Standard, full-free, or triple-stage options
Transmission: Manual or automatic available
Turning Radius: Compact design for warehouse use
Fuel Capacity: Standard LPG tank
Operating Weight: Varies by model and configuration

Controls and Operation

Operator compartment contains all necessary controls for safe operation.

Main Controls: Ignition switch, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, parking brake, directional controls, hydraulic levers (lift/lower, tilt), horn.

Operation: Start engine following proper procedure, use smooth control inputs, maintain clear visibility, sound horn at intersections, travel with load lowered, use designated travel paths.

LPG System Operation

LPG fuel system requires proper handling and maintenance.

LPG Tank Connection: Ensure proper connection and no leaks.
Fuel Changeover: Follow manufacturer procedure for LPG operation.
Refueling: Turn off engine, no smoking, proper ventilation.
Leak Detection: Use soap solution to check for gas leaks.
Storage: Store LPG tanks in well-ventilated area.

Tip: Always perform leak check after connecting LPG tank.

Hydraulic System

Hydraulic system provides lifting and tilting functions.

Check hydraulic fluid level regularly.
Inspect hoses and connections for leaks.
Operate controls smoothly to avoid shock loads.
Lower loads completely before traveling.
Do not use hydraulics to push or pull loads.

WARNING! Never work under elevated loads without proper safety supports.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation and longevity.

Daily: Pre-operation inspection, fluid level checks, visual inspection.

Weekly: Tire pressure check, battery maintenance, safety device testing.

Monthly: Comprehensive inspection, lubrication, system checks.

Annually: Major service including engine tune-up, hydraulic system service.

Storage & Transport

Proper storage and transport procedures prevent damage.

Storage: Park on level surface, lower forks completely, engage parking brake, turn off LPG supply, remove key.

Transport: Secure forklift properly, ensure LPG tank is turned off, check local transport regulations.

CAUTION! Always secure forklift during transport to prevent movement.

Regulatory Information

Complies with industrial equipment safety standards applicable in 1987. OSHA regulations apply for workplace safety. Proper training and certification required for operators. Follow local regulations for LPG handling and storage. Manufacturer: Yale Materials Handling Corporation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	LPG supply, battery, ignition	Check LPG tank valve, battery charge, ignition system
Poor lifting performance	Hydraulic fluid, pump, leaks	Check fluid level, inspect for leaks, test hydraulic pump
Steering difficulty	Fluid level, pump, linkage	Check power steering fluid, inspect linkage, test pump
Brake problems	Fluid, pads, adjustment	Check brake fluid, inspect pads, adjust brakes
LPG odor	Leaks in system	Immediately shut off LPG, ventilate area, check for leaks

Service: Contact authorized Yale service center for major repairs.

Emergency: In case of LPG leak, evacuate area and contact emergency services.