If the hydraulic pump is the heart of the steering system, the power steering cylinder is its muscle. A large number of Clark forklift models use power steering cylinders to give axial rotation to their rear wheels. In other words, thanks to these devices, these material-handling vehicles can quickly turn their rear wheels, whether the vehicle is carrying loads or not. Therefore, it is crucial to learn how to judge when is the right moment to replace them. With that in mind, Lift Parts Warehouse wants to share some basics about Clark forklift steering cylinder assemblies and what to do when looking for new replacements.
Clark Forklift Power Steering Cylinder Advantages
The vast majority of Clark forklift models use a power steering system, which is no coincidence. Power steering cylinders are a safe and efficient way to turn both rear wheels without much resistance. Also, unlike other steering system models, these are much less expensive to maintain.
When you turn the steering wheel, the internal rod of the cylinder moves in such a way that both rear wheels turn accordingly. And because it is activated by a hydraulic fluid and not by a transmission mechanic, the effort you have to put into it when turning the steering wheel is minimal.
Clark forklift steering cylinder assembly
How Does a Clark Forklift Power Steering Cylinder Works?
Clark forklift power steering cylinders are hydraulic cylinders that turn the vehicle's steering wheels in the desired direction and angle when the driver turns the steering wheel. Like all hydraulic cylinders, they work by Pascal's principle, which states that a change in pressure at any point in a fluid is transmitted through the fluid so that the same change occurs everywhere.
A power steering cylinder has two chambers filled with hydraulic fluid separated by a piston. When the hydraulic pressure in one chamber increases, it will push the piston in the opposite direction. When the piston moves, so do the internal rods connected to it. The end of the rod is connected to the mechanism in which the forklift wheels pivot.
To grasp this process, it is highly recommended to check out the following video:
Find the Steering Cylinder in Your Clark Forklift
Clark forklift power steering cylinders are located on the rear side of many Clark lift trucks. It is fixed to the steering axle of the vehicle. At the ends of the steering cylinder barrel, it will attach the hydraulic hoses from which the hydraulic steering fluid will go in and out through the inner chambers. The ends of the cylinder rods are connected to the steering linkage.
Find the power steering cylinder in the rear side of the your Clark lift truck
The fact of having the steering system on the rear side makes the forklift maneuverability much greater, especially in sharp spaces. This configuration allows the driver to make tighter turns when the vehicle is moving backward.
Clark forklift power steering cylinders are designed and manufactured to withstand high-duty cycles in the most demanding environments. Its main components are made of cast iron and steel, so they are highly resistant. But this does not mean that they cannot be damaged. That's why they must receive maintenance from time to time to ensure their lifespan.
Example of a bad Clark forklift steering cylinder
They are not cheap devices, so taking care of them is essential. Recognizing their main symptoms of faults in time can make the difference between a simple replacement of seals to a complete replacement of the cylinder. Below we will highlight the most common symptoms when a Clark forklift's power steering cylinder fails.
Hydraulic liquid leaks.
Misaligned tires.
The forklift is not turning properly.
Hearing groaning noises while turning the steering wheel.
Stiff steering wheel.
How to Remove a Clark Forklift Power Steering Cylinder
Removing the power steering cylinder from your Clark forklift is a straightforward procedure. You can accomplish that task by following these steps.
Park the Clark lift truck in a safe area.
Use a hydraulic jack to raise the back side of the lift truck.
Remove both rear wheels.
Place the wheel beneath the forklift as a safety measurement. This precaution will absorb any possible falling impact.
Disconnect the wheel's steering linkage from the power steering cylinder end.
Remove the steering linkage part.
Repeat 5 and 6 steps on the other side.
Detach the hydraulic hoses from the power steering cylinder. Before doing that, ensure to count with a container to recollect the excess hydraulic fluid.
Disconnect the steering cylinder from the steering axle body.
Wearing safety gloves, you will be able to remove the steering cylinder from whichever end you choose effortlessly.
Once you've disconnected the power steering cylinder from your Clark forklift, you'll be able to service and test it, as shown in the video below:
Find Your New Clark Forklift Power Steering Cylinder at Lift Parts Warehouse
If you need a power steering cylinder for your Clark forklift, the best place to find one is Lift Parts Warehouse. In our online catalog, you will find a wide variety of power steering cylinders compatible with many different Clark forklift models. We have aftermarket and OEM products, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
At Lift Parts Warehouse, we have been supplying spare parts for material handling vehicles of the most recognized brands for years. We are one mid-leading Clark forklift supplier out there. And we strive daily to continue expanding our inventories to offer our customers the most competitive prices. For more information about our price policy, please click here.
We also have a good shipping service that will deliver your order to you quickly. Remember, if your order is over 650 dollars, shipping is free. If for any reason you are not satisfied with what you received, you can return it and we will give you your money back without any problems. You can find more information about our return policy here.
We can assure you that our Clark forklift power steering cylinders are of the highest quality, and each one comes with a 1-year warranty to support it. Don't put aside your Clark forklift because of a faulty power steering cylinder. Place your order today and get your truck running its best again.
Takeaways
The power steering cylinders of Clark forklift trucks are the devices responsible for transforming the hydraulic force into mechanical force that allows the rotation of the rear wheels of these vehicles. The hydraulic cylinders facilitate the maneuverability of many Clark forklift models. Despite being made of durable material, they can wear out if not properly maintained, like any other device. If, for any reason, you need to replace the power steering cylinder on your Clark forklift, don't hesitate to contact Lift Parts Warehouse services. With our products, your lift truck will regain its efficiency.