The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
During the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located within Buchanan, Michigan, was the maker of the very first Tructractor. Employees fabricated the tractor to make it easier to move parts within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to make more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machinery that very same year.
Duat
In the year 1923 Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and can draw up to 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was created during 1927. During 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which run on diesel, gasoline, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts need to be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to buy, but more to operate because of the cost of fuel. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.