The History of the Gas Forklift
In the early part of the 20th century, the Clark Equipment company manufactured the first gas powered forklift. Since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
During 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated in Buchanan, Michigan State, was the producer of the first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move parts within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to make more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor in the year 1923. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During nineteen twenty seven the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that have internal combustion engines can function utilizing liquid natural gas, liquid propane, gasoline or diesel. These type of forklifts should be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but much more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.