The History of the Gas Forklift
In the early 20th century, the Clark Equipment company made the very first gas powered forklift. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts since that time.
Beginning
In 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the producer of the very first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to transport 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 within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machinery that year.
Duat
In nineteen twenty three Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During nineteen twenty seven the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on gasoline, diesel, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These kind of forklifts must be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.