Transmission Filters
In addition to oil, fuel, and air filters, many models of forklifts will have a transmission filter that prevents damage to this vital system by keeping out contaminants. Dirt and dust particles can come from freshly cut workpieces in an industrial environment, which can eventually work their way into the hydraulic components of a forklift. Machines that travel outside can collect material from the environment around them. Well-maintained transmission filters can remove most of these pollutants, thus keeping your equipment working at peak efficiency. Like all other devices attached to modern warehousing equipment, these filter modules must be carefully fitted to connected lines. As a result, it's essential to match your forklift to a filter designed for it.
Reinstalling Transmission Filter Modules
Your choice of transmission filter will depend on the specific brand of forklift. Komatsu equipment might take a 3EB-15-51600 transmission filter module, while those who operate a Toyota-branded system may opt for a 32405-32890-71 filter. Those with Mitsubishi or Caterpillar-branded gear may instead find that a 91A2408201 transmission filter works best.
Each of these modules is shaped somewhat differently, which helps to ensure fitment on the best forklift. In some cases, transmission filters might come in unusual housing, but the basic functionality is still the same.
The technique used to swap them out is usually similar as well. Technicians will generally park the forklift on level ground and then power it into a completely safe state. They'll disconnect all the hoses and drain the transmission fluid before doing anything else.
Once the equipment is dry, removing the housing screws that hold the transmission filter in place is easy. The new one should slide into place as soon as the old one is out of the way. Even the screw holes should line up, which makes fixing it in place a breeze. Washing down the immediate area and restoring the transmission fluid levels are usually all needed to finish the job and get moving again.Ensuring Cleanliness With Transmission Filters
Original equipment manufacturers sometimes recommend checking the transmission filter and fluid level each time you change the fuel filter. In general, you'll want to inspect all the filters attached to your system every 300-400 hours you run it. Dirty fluid or foul odors could indicate something wrong with the transmission filter. Visible leakage is a severe problem, and you need to have the transmission line checked out and the filter if you see any.
Prevent Transmission Fluid Leaks With Helmar Parts
The team of professionals here at Helmar Parts has stocked a wide selection of transmission filters. All are available for various forklift makes and models at aftermarket prices.
It would be best if you never operated a forklift that's leaking. Fortunately, getting all the parts you'll need to get up and running with one again is easy. Contact Helmar Parts online for more information about transmission filter maintenance or help to find the right filter for your forklift.