FORKLIFT RELAYS

Forklift Relays

Forklift relays are basically electrically operated switches that open and close when receiving a certain electrical signal. Also, each forklift relay serves as insulation between the power source and the controlled lift truck device. That is why when a forklift relay kit stops working as it should, it puts its related device out of service. That is why when an important device suddenly stops working, there is a high chance that it is due to a faulty relay. 

A typical forklift relay kit is usually found under the hood in a large black box, where you would also find the fuses. These electrical components come in different sizes, ratings, and applications, such as a 12 Volt relay switch or a typical lift truck 24 volt relay 5 pin.

So it is essential to know how to choose the right replacement before purchasing a new forklift relay kit. If this is your first time looking for a replacement forklift relay and you don't know where to start, don't worry; Solid Lift Parts is here to make life easier.

Different Types of Forklift Relays

The forklift relay is a pronged electrical accessory with two or more prongs. The amount of prongs depends on the model or requirement of the electrical part it is used on. A relay is wired in two ways: from the electrical source of the lift truck to the electrical part or a switch to the electrical part.

Despite what it may seem at first glance, each relay model is designed to function in specific working ranges and to certain specifications. So, in other words be careful to mix a 12 Volt relay switch with a 24 Volt relay 5 pin for lift trucks. Therefore, unless you know exactly what you are doing, we do not recommend using them arbitrarily, although we will discuss this in more detail later about this and its risk.

Bad Forklift Relay Symptoms

We must first understand how they work to understand the type of faults that a bad forklift relay can cause. These electrical devices allow you to control the flow of current that passes through a certain circuit, such as the water pump, the radiator fan, or the lights on the forklift. So if we notice a low performance of any of these components, we should first check their respective relay.

Relays ensure that the required electrical rating reaches the particular electrical part. Thereby preventing any negative effects a lower or higher voltage may cause. But, when voltage problems occur, the relay gets damaged and cuts the flow of electricity. Thereafter, a new relay will be required to replace the damaged one.

Here is a more deeper explanation on how most relays work:

Reason Why Forklift Relays Fails

Many factors come into play when judging what might cause a forklift relay to fail. You must remember that, unlike conventional vehicles, forklifts are subjected to more demanding work environments, putting their components under high stress and wear.

In addition, due to the type of role they play and the way they operate, a forklift relay could be designed to open a close a certain number of times. For example, a 12 Volt relay switch or a 24 Volt relay 5 pin may give you 500,000 open cycles. So, once the corresponding number of cycles has been completed, do not think twice and buy a new one.

How To Test Your Forklift Relay

But how do you know that your forklift relay is not the source of the problem? Well, before you discard any relay, it is better to test it. But before that a couple of things to take in mind:

• Make sure the forklift battery is in good condition and fully charged.
• Have a multimeter handy.
• Ensure you have and understand the corresponding forklift relay diagram.
• A couple of wires and clamps to help you connect the different pins.

Basically, what we are looking for is to rule out that its secondary circuit is not open when the primary circuit is closed. To do this, follow these steps:

• Connect the control circuit to the battery. The primary circuit is which activates the coil. Sometimes their pins are identified with the numbers 85 and 86.
• Connect the multimeter to the other pins (usually labeled 30 and 87), and measure continuity. To do this, you must place the multimeter on the ohm scale.
• If you find a low resistance (practically zero), then the forklift relay is in good shape. If this isn't the case, then you should buy a new one.

This procedure is equally valid whether it is a 12 Volt relay switch or a 24 Volt relay 5 pin. Once the bad relay is identified, you can contact Solid Lift Parts and place your order. We assure you that your forklift will be back in operation in less than you can imagine.

Don't Swap Your Forklift Relays! You Better Get A New One

The forklift relay swapping is a practice that many do without thinking too much about the possible sequence. As we mentioned, not all relays are designed to operate under the same parameters. This means that they will activate under specific electrical signals. Furthermore, if its internal construction is electronic, it will be even more sensitive to these disturbances.

A 12 Volt relay switch 5 pins will not give you the same response as a 24 Volt relay 5 pin. This type of practice can create the propitious scenario for a  voltage spike that puts the rest of your forklift's electrical and electronic components at risk.

When technicians do a forklift relay swapping, it is because they know the circuit and its parameters, even if, to an untrained eye, it seems that they're simply removing and putting. So don't take any risk; if you assume that one of your forklift relays is in poor condition and you don't have a way to test it, it's best to buy a new one. The good news is that thanks to Solid Lift Part, you can quickly find the replacement you need. Save time and money; Solid Lift Part is your best shot when it comes to forklift parts.

How To Know Which Forklift Relay You Need To Buy?

How do you know if the replacement 12 Volt relay that you have can work in the long run or if the 24 volt 5 pin relay you are about to buy is the right one for your forklift? These questions will not disturb you anymore; here at Solid Lift Parts, we will give you the keys to choose the right forklift relay kit.

1. You must know which device is controlled by the forklift relay you want to change.
2. Ensure the pin numbers match with the new replacement forklift relay.
3. The new relay must handle the same load range. For example, if the faulty one were 30 amps, the new one can't be less than that.
4. Make sure the coil voltage is the same. A 12 Volt relay switch won't work well as a replacement for a 24 Volt relay 5 pin, even if it would support the same load range.
5. Consult your truck manual for more information. You will find the part number related to the forklift relay you want to replace there.
6. Use the part number to find aftermarket alternatives. It will be easier to find aftermarket forklift relays than their original counterparts.

Finally, be sure to purchase your new replacement forklift relay from a trusted supplier with years of experience behind its back. If a fast yet reliable alternative is what you're looking for, then there's no better place than Solid Lift Part for you. With our service, you will not have to spend hours and hours looking for the right replacement for your faulty relay.

We Have The Forklift Relay You're Looking For

Solid Lift Part is, without a doubt, your best ally when it comes to getting the best forklift spare parts. We know how frustrating it is to spend countless hours or even days finding the right replacement part and not fully knowing if it will ultimately work or not. But at Solid Lift Part, we value your time, which is why we put all our resources at your disposal in order to provide you with the best service. 

Not only will you be able to find the forklift relay you need, but you can also get your hands on it in less time than you expect. We have years of experience in the sector, so we know exactly what you require. Leave the heavy lifting to us and worry about the rest. So don't think twice; call us today and place your order.

Forklift Relay Photos