Clark forklifts are known for their hydraulic systems. These systems are efficient and durable. However, like all other forklift parts, the hydraulic system parts need periodic maintenance to keep them working well. One way to do this is by replacing their hydraulic filters when required. Clark forklift hydraulic filters help protect the other parts of the hydraulic system in Clark lift trucks. If these devices fail, they can damage the whole hydraulic system. That's why at Lift Parts Warehouse, we want to share more about this part and what you should consider when buying a replacement.
Do All Clark Forklifts Have Hydraulic Filters?
Without a proper hydraulic system, a forklift will not be considered a material handling vehicle as such. Forklifts, irrespective of their brand or model, rely on a hydraulic system that allows them more or less to manipulate their loads, either for lifting or unloading. And Clark forklifts were not going to be the exception; regardless of whether internal combustion engines power them or not (electric models), all Clark forklifts have a hydraulic system made up of different hydraulic elements.
No matter what model of Clark forklift you have, it is essential that it has a hydraulic filter to protect the hydraulic parts
Most Clark forklift hydraulic systems consist of a hydraulic pump, a reservoir, a series of valves, hydraulic cylinders, and hoses that allow the hydraulic fluid to flow from one component to another. The pump creates the pressure to move the hydraulic fluid through the entity system. The reservoir stores the fluid so it can be reused when needed. The valves control and regulate the system pressure levels.
As you can see, the entire hydraulic system of a Clark forklift relies on hydraulic fluid to work. This fluid moves through the hydraulic system and gets in touch with all hydraulic parts. For this reason, before the hydraulic fluid goes through the different hydraulic components, it is essential to ensure that it is completely clean and free of any contaminant or abrasive material.
That's why Clark forklift hydraulic filters are so indispensable. Under optimal conditions, these filters are the main source of protection for any element that makes up the hydraulic system. From the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic cylinders (Tilt Cylinders, Lift Cylinder, Steering Cylinder) with their respective seals and gaskets from any dirt or abrasive material that could harm them in one way or another.
If you want to know how most hydraulic system works, check out the next video:
Where is the Hydraulic Filter Located on My Clark Forklift?
To find out where the Clark forklift filter is in your Clark lift truck, start by placing yourself on the hydraulic reservoir side. Once you know where the reservoir is, find the hose that communicates with the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic filter is usually located between the reservoir and the hydraulic pump.
Depending on the model, you can find Clark forklift hydraulic filters bolted to the vehicle frame at the reservoir outlet; or, on the contrary, find them inside the tank, at the beginning of the suction point of the hydraulic pump.
In many forklift models, you can find the hydraulic filters by looking in the hydraulic fluid reservoir, as shown in this video:
Clogged Clark Forklift Hydraulic Filter Symptoms
Weird noises are coming from the hydraulic pump. If a Clark forklift filter becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of hydraulic fluid to the pump. This can cause cavitation in the low-pressure zone of the hydraulic pump. If the hydraulic filter breaks and allows dirt or abrasive elements to pass through, it can damage the internal parts of the hydraulic pump. Both of these problems usually cause strange noises when starting up the hydraulic system on a Clark forklift.
High temperature on hydraulic cylinders. If a Clark forklift hydraulic filter is clogged, it can lead to low lubrication in the truck's hydraulic cylinders. This will cause the friction between hydraulic cylinder moving parts to increase, which will make the temperature inside them rise considerably.
Quickly seal deterioration. The high temperatures given off by the low level of hydraulic liquid in the hydraulic cylinders will lead to the deterioration of their seals. When this occurs, leakage of the little remaining hydraulic fluid will be unavoidable.
Slow operation. When the Clark forklift hydraulic cylinder does not have enough hydraulic fluid, it will be difficult for them to extend or retract as it used to before.
Hydraulic fluid is dirty and contaminated. One way to tell that a Clark forklift hydraulic filter is defective is by looking at the state of the liquid in the reservoir. The hydraulic fluid should generally look clean; if it becomes cloudy or dirty quickly, even after being replaced regularly, then it's likely that the hydraulic filter is faulty.
Detecting these symptoms on time will allow you to take action immediately. Replacing your Clark forklift hydraulic filter on time can save you a lot of money on maintenance and repair costs.
When is the Right Time to Replace the Hydraulic Filter on a Clark Forklift?
Clark forklift hydraulic filters need to be replaced on regular basis
It isn't easy to know when Clark forklift hydraulic filters should be replaced. As a general rule, what can be done is to estimate it per operating hour. Even these estimations may vary between one lift truck model to another because each model will respond differently due to its work environment. The hydraulic fluid should be inspected every 100 working hours and replaced every 1,000. On the other hand, Clark forklift filters are expected to last at least 2,000 effective operating hours.
These are only suggestions. You should consult the guidelines in your Clark forklift manual and use your experience to decide what works best for you. Remember that guidelines may be adapted to your work dynamics and environment.
How to Change a Clark Forklift Hydraulic Filter?
Changing Clark forklift hydraulic filters is a fairly simple and easy task. It will only require a few tools and a little patience. Follow the steps below, and in less than 15 minutes, your forklift's hydraulic system will be up and running smoothly.
Park your Clark lift truck in a safe and comfortable place.
Make sure the hydraulic system is not pressurized.
Open the forklift hood and find where the hydraulic reservoir is.
If the hydraulic filter it's outside the reservoir, unscrew it from the vehicle frame.
Disconnect the hoses from both ends of the filter.
Be sure to thoroughly clean the hoses and attach both to the ends of the new hydraulic filter.
Bolt the new filter to the base of the lifting truck.
If the hydraulic filter it's inside the reservoir, unscrew it from the base of the suction connection.
Find the Best Clark Forklift Hydraulic Filters at Lift Parts Warehouse
When it comes to finding high-quality hydraulic filters for your Clark forklift, Lift Parts Warehouse is the best place to shop. We offer a wide selection of hydraulic filters that are compatible with many different Clark forklift models, so we assure you that you will find the right one for your needs. Our products are made from high-quality materials, and their prices are the most affordable, so you can rest assured that you are getting the best for your money. To learn more about our pricing policy by clicking here.
We also count on an excellent shipping service that will deliver your order in a very short time. If you have difficulty finding the right hydraulic filter for your Clark forklift, do not hesitate to contact our staff, either via chat or by calling us at 1.800.210.8170. We are at your disposal at all times, and we will be more than happy to make your shopping experience as comfortable as possible.
Takeaways
Clark forklift hydraulic filters are important for the proper function of the hydraulic parts on any Clark lift truck model. These devices help to keep any type of impurity, contaminants, or abrasive particles out of the hydraulic system of these vehicles. Due to the type of function they perform, these hydraulic filters must be replaced periodically since, over time, they wear out or become clogged. When you need new Clark forklift hydraulic filters, don't hesitate to contact Lift Parts Warehouse services. With our hydraulic filters, your Clark material handling vehicles will perform at their peak capacity for a long time.