The History of the Gas Forklift
During the early 20th century, the Clark Equipment company made the first gas powered forklift. Ever since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
In the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated in Buchanan, Michigan, was the manufacturer of the first Tructractor. Workers made the tractor in order to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to build more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started 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. Known 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 developed during 1927. During the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that have internal combustion engines could function using 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 less to purchase, but more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads that are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.