The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift during the early part of the 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
During the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located in Buchanan, Michigan, was the maker of the first Tructractor. Workers fabricated 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 manufacture more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the equipment that very same year.
Duat
In nineteen twenty three Clark manufactured 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 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was created during nineteen twenty seven. In 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that have internal combustion engines could function using liquid propane, liquid natural gas, diesel or gasoline. These kind of forklifts should be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but more to operate because of the cost of fuel. For loads that are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.