The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very 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 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan, was the producer of the very first Tructractor. Employees fabricated the tractor to make it easier to transport parts in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, 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 75 of the equipment that year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor in nineteen twenty three. Called 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 the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that function on gasoline, diesel, liquid propane or liquid natural gas have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts have to 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 because of the fuel cost. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.