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