The History of the Gas Forklift
In the early part of the 20th century, the Clark Equipment company manufactured the first gas powered forklift. Ever since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
During 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated in Buchanan, Michigan, was the producer of the first Tructractor. Workers made the tractor in order to make it easier to transport components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to make more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that same year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor during 1923. Referred to as the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and could draw up to 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was created in nineteen twenty seven. During the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines can run using liquid propane, liquid natural gas, diesel or gasoline. These kind of forklifts should be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.