The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts ever since that time.
Beginning
Located in Buchanan, Michigan State, the Clark Equipment Company was the maker of the first Tructractor during 1917. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to move 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 began the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the machinery that same year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor in the year 1923. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery 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 during the year 1927. In 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which function on gasoline, diesel, 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 a lot less to purchase, but much more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads which are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.