The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift during the early 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
In 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located in Buchanan, Michigan, was the producer of the very first Tructractor. Workers made the tractor in order to make it easier to transport parts in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to build more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machines that year.
Duat
During 1923 Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and can draw up to 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was developed during the year 1927. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines could run utilizing liquid propane, liquid natural gas, diesel or gasoline. These kind of forklifts should be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost much less to purchase, but a lot more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.