An Inside Look at the Toyota Internal Combustion Forklift Engine

One of the main reasons that Toyota has gained the reputation for having the highest quality forklift in the industry is that the buying a Toyota forklift means you?re also getting a Toyota engine. Years of engineering Toyota?s world-renowned 4Y engine and all of our other engines means our internal combustion forklifts are unmatched. How does a Toyota Forklift Engine Work? Every Toyota IC forklift engine has the same basic functionality. Toyota Certified Technicians are trained in this process so they can more easily understand the exact point of need when maintenance is required. Here?s an inside look about how an IC forklift engine works. An ignition battery and gear-driven starter forces the engine to ?crank over,? starting the internal combustion process. The carburetor mixes a combustible, liquid fuel with air and injects it into the cylinders through a valve. Within the cylinder, the piston is attached to a rod, which in turn is attached to the crankshaft. Mechanical energy is produced when the spark plug introduces a spark to the compressed fuel/air mixture, igniting the explosion. The explosion drives the piston and rod down in the cylinder. Because of the way the crankshaft is designed, it will convert the downward energy of the piston and rod to the mechanical energy (RPMs). A series of these cylinders are connected to the crankshaft in the block. The block contains other mechanisms, like the cam shaft, which uses the RPMs to open and close the valves in precise timing sequence. This mechanical energy also drives the alternator or generator (found mounted to the engine and driven by a belt) which supplies current to the forklift?s electrical components. Additionally, the electricity produced in this way is used to drive the power steering and lift/tilt hydraulic pumps. From Forklift Diesel Engines to Gasoline, Toyota Has Forklift Engine Fuel Types Covered Internal combustion engines come in four main types, each categorized by the type of fuel they burn. Deciding between them depends on your specific forklift application and operational strategy Forklift gasoline engines use the same fuel as an automobile. Forklift Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) engines run on a gas that occurs naturally. LPG is commonly used for gas grills. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engines use the same fuel supplied to homes and businesses to power stoves, furnaces and other appliances. Diesel engines use diesel fuel, a lower grade fuel not as refined as gasoline and therefore, not as combustible. Each type of fuel provides different advantages that will then impact the operation of the forklift. Consider the below list that shows which forklifts can come equipped with forklift diesel engines and CNG engines and ask your locally authorized Toyota dealer about what choosing one can mean for your operation. CNG Options: Core IC Cushion (up to 6,500 lb. capacity) Core IC Pneumatic (up to 6,500 lb. capacity) Diesel Engine Options Mid IC Pneumatic (8,000-11,000 lb. capacity) Large IC Pneumatic (13,500-17,500 lb. capacity) Diesel Engine Only: High-Capacity IC Pneumatic (22,000-125,000 lb. capacity) Shorter load centers available in LP Knowing the Difference between Forklift Engines ? The Toyota 4Y Engine and More But which engine comes in each of our forklifts? The below guide will help you understand the differences between each Toyota forklift engine. But one thing that?s consistent across every forklift engine we produce? Expert engineering. Four forklift engines are distributed across our internal combustion line 4Y Forklift Engine Core IC Cushion | Core IC Pneumatic 1ZS Forklift Engine Core IC Diesel Pneumatic 1FS Forklift Engine Large IC Cushion | Box Car Special | Paper Roll Special | Mid IC Pneumatic | Large IC Pneumatic 1KD Forklift Engine Mid IC Diesel Pneumatic | Large IC Diesel Pneumatic But what exactly is the difference between these forklift engines that come in each of these models? Here?s a breakdown of each to help you choose the best available option. Toyota 4Y Engine The Toyota 4Y Engine was introduced in 1986, and it has been one of the industry?s longest lasting, most durable forklift engines ever since. The 4Y Engine is unique in that it is the cleanest engine in the industry, and its emission standards rival the emission standards of any competitive internal combustion engine. The Toyota 4Y Engine is extremely efficient, which makes it tolerant of extreme temperatures. From outdoor applications in Minnesota, to paper mills in Georgia, this engine runs smoothly. Due to its compact design, this engine works well in Toyota?s Core Products, such as the Core IC Cushion and Core IC Pneumatic. It is common to find Toyota Forklifts operating with 4Y Engines that have run for more than 30,000 hours and haven?t had a major overhaul. Here?s deeper dive into how the Toyota 4Y Engine functions: Toyota 1FS Engine The Toyota 1FS Engine is based off the well-known 3Z diesel engine. It?s a robust powerhouse that can handle your toughest jobs. The 1FS is built with special electronics that all lead to better fuel efficiency and low emissions. Special measures have been taken (including a smaller engine footprint to help reduce the under-hood temperature, which leads to durability and longevity. Toyota 1ZS Diesel Engine The Toyota 1ZS Diesel Engine powers the Toyota Core IC Diesel Pneumatic, with less displacement than the previous model for lower emissions and fuel costs. The 1ZS is a 3-cylinder inline engine. The Toyota 1ZS requires no exhaust maintenance. This engine is a tough 53 horsepower with 128 lbs./ft. torque. Toyota 1KD Diesel Engine The 1KD Diesel Engine has been developed for the Toyota Mid and Large IC Diesel Pneumatic Forklifts. The 1KD is a four-cylinder engine that helps decrease fuel consumption and emissions. This engine is turbo charged which provides advantages including superior power and efficiency. With this engine model, horsepower and torque have significantly increased while fuel consumption has significantly decreased. The current 1KD engine has approximately 20 fewer internal moving parts than the previous model, making it easier to maintain and own. Takeaway Reasons to Trust Toyota Forklift Engines Need a few quick reasons that Toyota forklift engines lead the way? Here a few quick take aways: Contact Us for more information about any Toyota forklift engine or to request a quote

Multiple Load Handlers Will Double or Triple Your Forklift's Productivity Level

Multiple load handlers are used to double or triple a forklift's productivity level by adding a second or third pair of forks to a truck. Operators can pick up more than one load at a time and transport them side by side. Designed for any application using pallets or containers to transport product, Cascade's Single Double Pallet Handler allows single pallet handling without protrusion outside the truck profile. Spreading the forks hydraulically allows handling of two pallets side by side. Sideshifting provides added flexibility for aligning forks or pallets in tight areas. Features: superior visibility through and over the frame for damage free handling at all stacking heights all steel frame bolt-on interchangeable forks Dual class II and III mountings Adjustable fork set spread for ability to handle different types of pallets Full-length, fully enclosed wrap around UHMW plastic bearings RapidSync option for ultra fast equal fork movement View the Multiple Load Handler brochure HERE

6 Easy Ways to Increase Productivity

Every business owner wants to increase productivity. Here are six easy ways to get more from your forklift. Request a service inspection be conducted regularly. See if a maintenance plan is right for you or help train and back up your in-house technicians. Leave promptly and don?t idle. Don?t start the engine until you?re ready to go to avoid wasting fuel and turn off the engine if it looks like you could be waiting for more than a minute. Don?t make sudden changes in speed. Maintain a steady pace, drive smoothly and accelerate gently. It will save fuel and reduce maintenance costs. Train your drivers. Good training not only helps improve safety, but also trains your operators to approach a load correctly to avoid unnecessary maneuvering and make them more efficient. Keep up-to-date with maintenance. This is extremely important to keep your forklift fuel efficient and running well. Buy the right tires and check them often. If your forklift has pneumatic tires, make sure they are inflated correctly. Under-inflated tires increase fuel consumption and wear more quickly. If your application is primarily indoors on concrete, cushion tires are a better bet.

Cascade's 20G Ag Rotator Is Here To Make The Busiest Time Of The Year More Efficient

Cascade manufactures a variety of products that enable the conventional forklift to become a more versatile and efficient material handling tool. Cascade offers a full line of products that enable a lift truck to pull, push, clamp, lift, sideshift and rotate practically any load imaginable. From fruits and vegetables, wine grapes, nuts, and more, the 20G Ag Rotator offers fast and effective handling for any agriculture application. The 20G Rotator provies the ability to quickly dump or invert a load easily and accurately. It is ideally suited for seasonal use in the agriculture industry and provides versatility when inverting and dumping bins is required. Cascade designed the 20G Ag Rotator specifically for seasonal use in agriculture Features: 180 degree rotation to quickly dump or invert a load and immediately return to the pick-up position. Compact build doesn't decrease the net capacity of lift trucks, so your customers handle more without needing to invest in a larger truck. High visibility through the bin hold-down gives drivers excellent line of sight for reliable, accurate operation Hydraulically operated bin retainer designed to securely clamp on top of the bin and hold it in place while rotating. Good torque performance ensures smooth, positive rotation of the load. Designed for handling plastic, wooden and metal bins used in the agricultural market. Options: Multiple fork lengths Rotator may be ordered with or without a bin hold-down View the 20G Ag Rotator with Bin Hold Down Spec Sheet HERE

Empowering Operators with Joystick Technology

Operator preferences govern purchasing decisions now more than ever. This extends beyond just the forklift itself and into the options that allow it to be custom tailored to fit operator and application needs. Different types of seats, pedals, grips, and armrests all play a key role in keeping operators satisfied, happy, and productive. While some operators are perfectly content with using the same bells and whistles they?ve grown accustomed to over the years, there are many new technologies to make their lives easier. One such example is the controls used to handle their daily tasks. For years, cowl-mounted levers have been the most popular method for manipulating all hydraulic functions, and for good reason. It?s what most forklifts are built with, so it?s likely what you?ve been using ever since you started driving one. That level of familiarity allows you to be productive and efficient, but it also may make you resistant to trying something new that could push your comfort and productivity to new heights. One such solution is joystick controls. Toyota?s optional EZ Control Joystick offers a revolutionary approach to material handling by housing all hydraulic controls inside a single handle. Lift, tilt, and all auxiliary functions such as side shift and fork positioning can be controlled within the palm of your hand. The horn button and forward/reverse gear shift are also located on the handle for added convenience. And the armrest has fore and aft, vertical, and tilt adjustments to optimize comfort and productivity. Finding a location to store small items like pens, tape, and small tools for quick access can be challenging. The EZ Control Joystick comes complete with a storage compartment with two USB charging ports to allow operators to conveniently store objects and charge portable electronic devices. In material handling, precise handling of loads is key to reducing product damage and maintaining productivity. The EZ Control Joystick utilizes an ISO style joystick design that is found in construction and agricultural equipment, which require the simultaneous use of a wide variety of functions. As proven in these high-profile applications, the joystick?s durability and performance can help reduce downtime and power you to new levels of success. Ultimately, which type of control devices you use comes down to what works best for your application and operator preference. If you feel like joystick controls may benefit your operation, contact us today for a demo or to learn more about the technologies that are available to empower your operators and your business. Original Post : Trinton Castetter, Product Marketing Specialist, Toyota Material Handling

EVERY DAY IS BATTERY DAY WITH BYD

BYD is an innovator in the marketplace. Trusted and reliable, BYD (Build Your Dreams), the world?s premier manufacturer of batteries, celebrates #BatteryDay today and every day. Founded in 1995 as a pioneer in battery technology, BYD?s mission is to change the world by creating a complete, clean-energy ecosystem that reduces the world?s reliance on petroleum. BYD?s innovative products are leaders in multiple sectors, including battery-electric automobiles, buses, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and forklifts; the SkyRail monorail system; solar power generation and energy storage systems; and consumer electronics. BYD always aims to make battery safety its key indicator of quality. BYD puts its batteries through rigorous safety tests, from burning, to overheating, dropping, perforation, crushing, and even shooting nails through their casings. Throughout these tests, BYD batteries have proven extremely safe, never overheating or exploding. BYD forklifts can fully charge in under 90 minutes and can run 10 hours per day, seven days a week. The reliable batteries in BYD forklifts require zero maintenance and come with a 10 year warranty. BYD?s new forklift charger also sets a high bar for the industry. Thanks to the device, BYD forklifts can be fully powered using a 110V charger that requires no extra wiring and can be connected to a standard wall plug. View BYD Forklifts

Why Our "Big 3" Lineup is Built for Your Industrial Needs

Columbia's Industrial Vehicle lineup is highlighted by its "big three". The"big three" consists of Columbia's Payloader, Stockchaser, and Expeditor Vehicles. These vehicles provide dependability, durability, and cost savings, allowing you to keep your focus on productivity. While we offer other industrial vehicles as well, typically, the "big three" is able to equip our industrial partners for whatever challenge they need help overcoming: Heavy duty towing Personnel transportation Cargo distribution with great maneuverability These three vehicles represent the heart and soul of Columbia vehicles: they're built to equip our partners in creating more efficient, more effective work environments. While our vehicles boast excellent performance and durability, our relationships are our focus. We're determined to provide electric vehicle solutions for your warehouse or distribution center, no matter what that entails. Our "big three" are available in curated standard configurations that address the typical challenges of an industrial environment; however, we specialize in going the extra mile to create custom upgraded industrial vehicles for your work environment. Payloader: The Payloader offers unmatched versatility in carrying and towing ability while providing a level of maneuverability beyond the typical heavy material handler. Stockchaser: The Stockchaser is the way to move heavy loads in tight spaces. With a deck capacity of up to 1,200lbs, you'll be hard-pressed to find more cargo capacity. Expeditor: The Expeditor is your top-performing productivity partner, getting you where you're going quickly and safely. See the Columbia Utility Vehicles HERE

Understanding Different Forklift Types and Their Applications

There are many different forklift types, each carefully designed for specific applications and each offering its own unique set of benefits and features. Below is a list of the six most common types of forklifts: Electric forklifts IC forklifts Order pickers Reach trucks High-capacity forklifts Pallet jacks Selecting the right forklift for your needs is essential to efficiency and productivity, which is why it is so important to understand the key differences in each class of forklifts. But with seven varying forklift ?classes? with subtle differences, it can be difficult to even know where to begin your forklift search. What are the different Forklift types? Class I : Electric Motor Rider Forklifts Class II : Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Forklifts (Reach Trucks, Order Pickers) Class III : Electric Pallet Jacks, Stackers, and Tow Tractors Class IV : Internal Combustion Cushion Tire Forklifts Class V : Internal Combustion Pneumatic Tire Forklifts Class VI : Electric/IC Engine Tow Tractors Class VII : Rough Terrain Forklifts Let?s explore the distinct applications, benefits, and features of each of the seven classes of forklifts: Class I: Electric Motor Riders Class I forklifts are electric motor riders. These electric-powered forklifts are ideal for loading and unloading tractor-trailers, handling pallets, and a number of other applications in industries ranging from food storage and retail to factory and general warehousing. Because they are powered by an electric battery, Class I forklifts are much quieter and create no emissions, making them a popular choice for indoor applications. Batteries on Class I forklifts also function as part of the counterweight to help maintain lifting capacity. Toyota offers six versatile lift trucks in this class, ranging in lift capacity from 3,000 to 40,000 pounds and with electrical systems ranging between 24-volt and 80-volt. Click on each of Toyota?s six Class I forklift models below to learn more about their individual features. Core Electric Forklift Large Electric Forklift 80V Electric Pneumatic Forklift 3-Wheel Electric Forklift Stand-Up Rider Forklift High-Capacity Electric Cushion Forklift Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Class II forklifts are electric, narrow aisle models. As the name suggests, Class II forklifts are designed with maneuverability that allows them to operate in tight spaces and narrow aisles. This class of forklifts is perfect for picking and putting away inventory, and these trucks provide users the ability to increase racking space without expanding their current warehouse. Toyota offers two Class II forklift models, and you can explore the unique features of each by clicking on the model name from the list below. Reach Truck Order Picker Class III: Electric Pallet Jacks / Stackers / Tow Tractors Class III equipment includes electric pallet jacks, stackers, and tow tractors. This class of equipment comes in both rider and walk behind (?walkie?) models, perfect for unloading deliveries and moving loads to a staging area where they can be handled by other types of forklifts. Toyota offers 10 Class III models, including three different stackers that are ideal for food and beverage storage industries, among others. Click on each forklift model below to learn more. Electric Walkie Pallet Jack Counter-Balanced Stacker Walkie Reach Truck Large Electric Walkie Pallet Jack End-Controlled Rider Pallet Jack Core Tow Tractor Mid-Tow Tractor Center-Controlled Rider Pallet Jack Walkie Stacker Industrial Walkie Stacker Class IV: Internal Combustion Engine Cushion Tire Class IV forklifts are internal combustion engine cushion tire trucks. This class of sit-down forklifts is designed for indoor use. Class IV forklifts are powered by internal combustion (IC) engines that run on diesel fuel, LP gas, gasoline, or compressed natural gas. Their solid, cushioned tires provide a smooth ride on indoor surfaces and they?re puncture-proof since they are not air-filled. These forklifts offer users outstanding versatility for warehousing, distribution, retail, and automotive applications. Toyota offers seven Class IV models, ranging in lift capacity from 3,000 to 100,000 pounds. Click on each of the forklift models below to learn more about their individual features. Core IC Cushion Large IC Cushion Box Car Special Paper Roll Special High-Capacity IC Cushion High-Capacity Large IC Cushion High-Capacity Adjustable Wheelbase Class V: Internal Combustion Engine Pneumatic Tire Class V forklifts are internal combustion engine pneumatic tire trucks. Forklifts in this class are similar to those in Class IV, but are designed primarily for outdoor use. These forklifts are highly durable and are ideal for lumberyards, construction sites, and other outdoor applications. Toyota offers seven forklift models in Class V, ranging in lift capacity from 3,000 to 125,000 pounds. Click on each individual forklift model below to learn more about its individual features. Core IC Pneumatic Mid IC Pneumatic Large IC Pneumatic High-Capacity IC Pneumatic Empty Container Handler Loaded Container Handler Reach Stacker Class VI: Electric/ IC Engine Tow Tractors Class VI equipment includes electric and internal combustion engine tow tractors. These machines are most commonly used for towing loads rather than lifting. Trucks in this class are ideal for use at airports, but are also commonly used in assembly line areas. Toyota?s Large Tow Tractor boasts a maximum tugging capacity of over 50,000 pounds and features an extremely tight turn radius. Its AC Drive system enables quicker acceleration, high top speeds, and extended peak operator time. Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks Class VII forklifts are rough terrain trucks. Trucks in this class feature large, tractor-style tires and are powered almost exclusively by diesel engines for outdoor use in rugged terrain. Class VII trucks are most commonly used at lumberyards or construction sites to lift building materials to elevated work sites. How to Choose Between IC (gas powered) or Electric Forklifts: Deciding whether an internal combustion forklift or electric forklift is appropriate for your application can seem like a daunting task. Here are some high-level considerations that you might take into account when choosing between a gas powered and electric powered forklift: Electric Typically less maintenance than I/C forklifts Quieter with little emission sounds No fuel-storage requirements Requires a charging station Batteries are large and heavy to change out. Battery extraction equipment may be required No tailpipe emissions Lifespan depends on application, use and maintenance Better option for smaller, confined areas Internal Combustion Forklifts Operate on gasoline, diesel, compressed natural gas or liquid propane gas Primarily used outdoors, but can be used in moderation in some indoor applications Can operate in various conditions No batteries to recharge Toyota?s IC forklift line can lift over 51,000 lbs. Lifespan depends on application, use and maintenance Noise emissions meet or exceed ANSI B56.1 Standards Toyota forklifts are designed to meet EPA Standards for emissions