The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift during the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
In 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan, was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move parts in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to make more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the machinery that same year.
Duat
During 1923 Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and could draw up to five thousand five hundred kilograms, the Clarktor was created during 1927. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines can run utilizing liquid natural gas, liquid propane, gasoline or diesel. These kind of forklifts must be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but a lot more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.