Methods to Fix a Pallet Jack Not Lifting - A Detailed Technical Guide

Table of Contents

1. Summary
2. Troubleshooting Pallet Jack Lifting Problems (Identifying the Issues)
3. Methods to Fix Pallet Jack Not Lifting Problems
4. Conclusion
5. Why Choose Pallet Jackson to Buy Pallet Jack Lift Support Parts
6. Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

There are two simple methods you can use to fix a pallet jack that does not lift.

The first method addresses one of the most common issues with pallet jacks, which is trapped air in the pallet jack hydraulic system. Trapped air disrupts hydraulic pressure, causing the jack not to lift. To fix this problem, ensure no heavy loads are on the forks for safety, then vigorously pump the handle 15-20 times. This action purges the trapped air from the hydraulic pump, leaving only hydraulic fluid in the system. Subsequently, the pallet jack should regain its lifting capability. This method is a straightforward and effective solution for many pallet jacks not lifting correctly.

The second method addresses another common issue – damaged O-rings, which can allow air or hydraulic fluid to leak and disrupt the hydraulic system's lifting capability. To resolve this problem, elevate the pallet jack, drain the hydraulic fluid, and replace O-rings with new ones. This repair restores the hydraulic fluid pressure and ensures the proper functioning of the pallet jack. While it involves more steps and precision, this method effectively fixes the pallet jack, not lifting problems caused by O-ring damage.

Check out the following video to learn how to fix the pallet jack not lifting problem: 

Troubleshooting Pallet Jack Lifting Problems (Identifying the Issues)

Before we dive into the solutions, it's crucial to understand the common issues that can cause your pallet jack to stop lifting as it should. These issues include:

1. Low Hydraulic Fluid: If your pallet jack is not lifting at all or only partially, it may be due to a low hydraulic fluid level. Inadequate hydraulic fluid levels can hinder the jack's lifting performance.
2. Air in the Hydraulic System: If your pallet jack is lifting slowly or unevenly, it may be due to air trapped in the hydraulic system. Air can enter the system when you change the fluid or when there is a leak.
3. Damaged and Worn Out O-rings: Worn or damaged O-rings can allow air to seep into the hydraulic system, leading to a loss of pressure while lifting.
4. Leaky Hydraulic Pump: If your pallet jack is losing pressure or not holding a load up, it may be due to a leaky hydraulic pump. The pump is responsible for creating and maintaining pressure in the hydraulic system. If it is damaged or faulty, fluid can leak out of the system or bypass the valves.
5. Battery or Power Issues (For Electric Pallet Jacks): Electric pallet jacks use batteries to power their motors and pumps. If the batteries are low, dead, or defective, they will not provide enough power to lift a load.
6. Debris and Mechanical Deterioration: If your pallet jack is not lifting smoothly or making noises, it may be due to debris and mechanical deterioration. Debris, such as dirt, dust, grease, or metal shavings, can clog or damage the hydraulic components and affect their lifting performance. 

To keep things simple, in this article, we will focus on two primary problems: removing trapped air from the hydraulic system and replacing damaged O-rings. These two major issues often contribute to the other pallet jack-lifting problems mentioned above.  

Methods to Fix a Pallet Jack Not Lifting

Depending on the cause of your pallet jack not lifting problem, you may need different methods to fix it. Here are some of the most common fixing methods and how to perform them:

Method 1: Remove the Trapped Air by Pumping the Handle 15-20 Times

One of the most prevalent issues causing a pallet jack not to lift properly is the presence of air pockets in the hydraulic system. Since hydraulic pressure is essential for lifting, any trapped air can disrupt this pressure, leading to improper functioning. Here's how to address this problem:

1. Safety First: Ensure no weights on the forks to prevent accidents.
2. Pump the Handle: Give the handle a vigorous workout by pumping it 15-20 times. This action will expel the trapped air from the hydraulic pump, leaving only hydraulic fluid within the system.
3. Test the Lift: Your pallet jack should start lifting correctly again once the trapped air is completely removed.

In most cases, this simple solution effectively resolves the issue. However, if the problem persists, it's time to consider more extensive repairs.

 

Method 2: Replace Damaged O-rings to Restore Hydraulic Fluid Pressure

Although the hydraulic system is usually tightly sealed, a worn, damaged, or cracked o-ring could let air seep. If you're seeing moisture or hydraulic fluid leaking near the bottom of the pallet jack handle, that's a sure sign that you have a damaged o-ring. This damaged O-ring is triggering the lifting problems. 

Here's how to replace them:

Materials and Tools Needed:

• Jack stand or a block of wood
• Allen wrench
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Hammer
• Pliers
• New O-ring
• Hydraulic fluid

Step 1: Elevate the Pallet Jack

Start by elevating your pallet jack to a workable height, ensuring the drive wheels are lifted off the ground. You can achieve this by using a jack stand or wood block. Elevating the jack is crucial as it provides unimpeded access to the O-rings and hydraulic components.

Step 2: Drain the Hydraulic Fluid

You'll need to drain out the hydraulic fluid from the pallet jack to replace the damaged O-rings. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the screw that secures the reservoir cover carefully. To ensure thorough drainage, pump the handle multiple times to expel every last drop of hydraulic fluid.

Step 3: Remove the Lower Lever

Once the hydraulic fluid is drained, you must remove the lower lever. A pin holds the lower lever in place. Using a Phillips head screwdriver and a hammer, gently tap the pin and pull it out. This will allow you to access the O-rings and valve cartridge.

Step 4: Replace the Damaged O-ring

Now, it's time to swap out the damaged O-ring. Use pliers to grab the end of the valve cartridge and then pull out the old O-ring. Ensure that the area where the new O-ring will be seated is clean by wiping it down to remove any residual fluid.

Step 5: Install the New O-ring

Place the new O-ring in the designated spot and put the valve cartridge cover back over it. This cover should be locked with the pin, securing the O-ring.

Step 6: Reassemble the Lower Lever

Position the lowering lever back into the side of the pump body and secure it with the retaining pin. Make sure it's firmly in place.

Step 7: Secure the Reservoir Cover

Place the screw back into the pump body and secure it with the appropriate driver. This will ensure that the hydraulic system is sealed properly.

Step 8: Test the Pallet Jack

The final step is to test your pallet jack to ensure it's functioning correctly. Fill your pallet jack with the appropriate hydraulic fluid again. Once filled, test the jack to see if it's lifting as expected. If it is, your repair was successful, and your pallet jack should be back in working order.

Following these steps, you can effectively address the problem of a pallet jack not lifting due to damaged O-rings and restore hydraulic fluid pressure.

However, if your equipment is still not lifting correctly, your best bet is to purchase a new one.

Conclusion

In conclusion, troubleshooting and resolving issues with a pallet jack not lifting is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of warehouse and material handling operations. You can save time and money and prevent workflow disruptions by identifying and addressing common problems, such as trapped air in the hydraulic system and damaged O-rings. However, it's essential to remember that while these solutions are often effective, more complex issues can require professional attention. When in doubt, seeking assistance from a qualified service technician is a prudent choice to ensure your equipment's safe and proper functioning.

Choose Pallet Jackson to Buy Pallet Jack Lift Support Parts

When sourcing pallet jack lift parts, choosing Pallet Jackson as your preferred supplier is wise. Pallet Jackson has earned a stellar reputation in the industry for several compelling reasons. Here are some of them:

Unparalleled Quality: Pallet Jackson offers a range of high-quality pallet jack lift support parts. Each component is manufactured with precision and durability, ensuring longevity and optimal performance for your equipment.

Expertise and Knowledge: Pallet Jackson boasts a team of experts who understand pallet jacks inside and out. Their knowledge and experience are invaluable in helping you select the right parts and troubleshoot issues effectively.

Wide Selection of Parts: The company provides a comprehensive inventory of parts, ensuring that you can find exactly what you need, whether it's replacement O-rings, hydraulic components, or any other part crucial to your pallet jack's operation.

Quick and Reliable Service: Pallet Jackson is known for its prompt service and efficient order processing. When you need a part urgently, you can rely on us to deliver swiftly.

Competitive Pricing: Pallet Jackson offers competitive pricing without compromising quality. You can access top-tier components without breaking the bank.

Customer Support: Our customer support team is ready to assist you, providing guidance and solutions for your pallet jack issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do you fix a pallet jack that won't lift?

A. If your pallet jack is not lifting, you can start by troubleshooting common issues like trapped air in the hydraulic system or damaged O-rings. Remove trapped air by pumping the handle 15-20 times or replace damaged O-rings following the steps outlined in the article. If these solutions don't work, it's advisable to consult a professional technician for further diagnostics and repairs.

Q. How do you bleed air from a pallet jack?

A. To bleed air from a pallet jack's hydraulic system, ensure no loads on the forks. Then, vigorously pump the handle 15-20 times. This action expels the trapped air, leaving only hydraulic fluid in the system. This process effectively removes air pockets that may be causing the jack not to lift properly.

Q. What Should You Do If Your O-Rings Are Damaged?

A. Unless your pallet jack is equipped with an O-ring replacement mechanism, the only option to repair a leaking O-ring is to replace the ring and refill the hydraulic system with fluid. Most industrial equipment vendors, tool supply outlets, and other similar establishments carry replacement O-rings for their products. Knowing the pallet jack's model number will ensure you receive the correct ring. Alternatively, you may remove the old one and take it to a supplier to be properly sized for the new one.

Q. How to Select the Appropriate Size O-Ring?

A. When it comes to obtaining replacement O-rings, any hardware shop will be fine if you ensure that you obtain the right size, Or you can buy from online retailers such as Pallet Jackson, check, and bring the make and model of your pallet jack with you. The last thing you want to do is disassemble your pallet jack and put in your new O-ring, only to discover that it is the incorrect size for your pallet jack.