The History of the Gas Forklift
During the early 20th century, the Clark Equipment company manufactured the very first gas powered forklift. 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 producer of the first Tructractor in the year 1917. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to move parts in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the equipment, they asked Clark to build more. The following 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 same year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor in nineteen twenty three. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
In 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that have internal combustion engines could run using liquid propane, liquid natural gas, gasoline or diesel. These type of forklifts must be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to purchase, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.