The History of the Gas Forklift
In the early part of the 20th century, the Clark Equipment company made the very first gas powered forklift. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Located in Buchanan, Michigan State, the Clark Equipment Company was the producer of the very first Tructractor during 1917. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to transport parts within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to build more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling seventy five of the equipment that very same year.
Duat
In 1923 Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor. Referred to 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 nineteen twenty seven. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines can function utilizing liquid natural gas, liquid propane, gasoline or diesel. These kind of forklifts have to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost much less to purchase, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.