For many years, Mitsubishi forklift models have been some of the most reliable and durable material handling vehicles for many industrial sectors. Most of them rely on drum-type brakes to slow down or be stopped quickly. This kind of brake type system has the advantage that it is easier to maintain, which makes it more profitable. However, with use, many of their major parts tend to wear out, so eventually, they must be replaced. For example, it is crucial to judge when it is the right time to replace the brake drum on your Mitsubishi forklift, especially for safety reasons. That's why at Lift Parts Warehouse, we want to show you how a Mitsubishi forklift brake drum works and what you should consider when purchasing its replacement.
What does a Mitsubishi Forklift Brake Drum Do?
Mitsubishi forklift brake drums are essential to the proper functioning of the braking system in many Mitsubishi lift truck models. The brake drums provide the surface against which the brake shoes are pressed to create friction that eventually will stop the vehicle. Most brake drums for Mitsubishi lift trucks are made from cast iron and are attached to the wheel hub.
The brake drums are mounted on the wheels and rotate with them. When the lift truck driver presses the brake pedal, the brake shoes are applied against the brake drum, slowing down or stopping the lift truck. Proper maintenance of Mitsubishi forklift brake drums is essential to ensure the safe and reliable operation of these lift trucks.
Over time, the friction generated between the brake shoes and the brake drum can cause the brake drum to wear, considerably reducing the forklift brake's performance. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the condition of the brake drums in order to replace them at the right time.
If you want to visualize how this process works, we invite you to take a look at the following video:
How Much a Mitsubishi Forklift Brake Drum Cost?
Depending on which Mitsubishi forklift model you have, the cost of a new set of brake drums can vary considerably. Most prices range from $200 to $600 per unit, but you can find Mitsubishi forklift brake drums at higher prices. Not only is the model a factor to consider, but also the type of part since, in the market, we can choose between original parts (OEM) or aftermarket.
OEM products are usually more expensive than their equivalents, but they have the advantage that they are perfectly adapted to their corresponding models and have the manufacturer's support. On the other hand, aftermarket brake drums are much more affordable, but make sure the model you choose is compatible with your forklift before purchasing.
In addition, their prices can be greatly influenced by the way Mitsubishi forklift brake drums are purchased. Currently, the best way to acquire a forklift spare part is through online shopping because the chances of finding the right replacement are much higher, and their prices are more competitive.
When to Replace Your Mitsubishi Forklift Brake Drum
If brake maintenance practices are performed on a regular basis, Mitsubishi forklift brake drums should last as long as the vehicle itself. That's why brake inspections must be performed from time to time following regulations established by OSHA.
Inspecting a forklift's brakes every 2,500 hours of use is recommended. It can expect that brake shoes will last between 5,000 and 700 hours; if they are replaced on time, the brake drum should not wear down too much. But if these indications are not followed, a brake drum for a Mitsubishi forklift will likely start to show wear out signs. You probably notice the following symptoms when you push down the brake pedal:
Scraping or Grinding Noise.
Low Brake Pedal.
Pulsation in the Brake Pedal.
Below we summarize the most common signs that will tell you that you should change the brake drum of your Mitsubishi forklift.
Deep wear
Uniform wear on the brake drum results from a brake drag, brake shoe imbalance, or embedded dirt in the brake lining. On the other hand, irregular wear indicates that the brake drum is not correctly aligned with the wheel axle.
Heat Checking
Heat Checking is fine cracks on the brake drum's surface. This is a common symptom as results from continuous heating and cooling of the friction surface. But, cracks that are one to two inches or more are usually deep and require that you replace the brake drum.
Hot Spotting
Hot spotting is when black spots are found on a drum's surface. This can happen if the brake drag is too high, for using extremely hard brake linings, or if the brake lining and brake drum are not in perfect alignment.
Polished or glazed drums (mirror-like shine)
A polished or glazed drum has a mirror-like finish on the friction surface. This condition occurs with some non-asbestos linings. Also, this can appear as a consequence of a low-pressure braking action and low-quality linings, which are not aggressive enough.
Oil or Grease Has Penetrated the Drum's Surface
If the brake system has been contaminated with oil or grease, It is difficult to reverse this damage because oil and grease can penetrate iron.
Worn brake drum bolt holes
If the brake drum bolt holes are worn, it is usually because the bolts were not tightened to the correct specification. The drum pilots may also be worn, and runout in the brake drum may have occurred. The mating hub or wheel pilots may be extensively damaged. In this case, you will need to replace both the hub and drum.
How to Remove a Mitsubishi Forklift Brake Drum?
Raise the vehicle with a jack and support it on jack stands.
Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
Loosen the wheel hub nuts that hold the brake drum in place. You will probably need a tool that makes this task easier for you.
Remove the brake drum. But first, remove the dust cap from the center of the drum.
To install the new brake drum, simply reverse the steps above.
Torque the lug nuts and lower the Mitsubishi lift truck to the ground.
Finally, test the lift truck brakes to guarantee they are working as they should before returning your Mitsubishi forklift into service. If you have difficulty removing the brake drum from a Mitsubishi forklift, the tips suggested in this video may help you.
Get Your New Mitsubishi Forklift Brake Replacement at Lift Parts Warehouse
At Lift Parts Warehouse, we are proud to say that we are one of the leading distributors of material handling vehicle parts and accessories in the United States. That's why we assure you that in our online catalog, you will find the right Mitsubishi forklift brake drum to cover your needs. Whether you need a replacement or an upgrade, we have the perfect brake drum for your Mitsubishi lift truck.
Plus, we count on a great shipping service that will deliver your product in just a few days. If you need it immediately, you can contact our customer service staff and ask them for the best option available. We're here to help you and your business. If for any reason you don't get satisfied when the product arrives, you can send it back, and we'll refund your money. For more information about our returns policies, please click here.
Contact us today and place your order. You can write to us via chat, or if you prefer, you can call us (+1) 800-210-8170. Let us show you why we're the best forklift spare parts supplier out there. Place your order, and you won't be disappointed!
Takeaways
The brake drums on Mitsubishi forklift trucks are very important. They are a part of the brake system that can last for a long time if they are taken care of. But sometimes they need to be replaced. There are several things that can cause this, but it is important to replace them at the right time. That's why Lift Parts Warehouse is here to help you when you need a new brake drum for your Mitsubishi forklift truck. With our brake drums, your truck's brakes will work quickly and efficiently once again.