The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts since that time.
Beginning
During 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated in Buchanan, Michigan State, was the maker of the first Tructractor. Workers fabricated the tractor to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to manufacture more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the equipment that same year.
Duat
During the year 1923 Clark made 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 created, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. During 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on diesel, gasoline, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.