Power
Many forklifts are made to run on propane gas. Forklifts which use propane are simple to refill. The gas is stored in a pressurized tank on the rear of the truck. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and the vapor combines with air. The forklift throttle is utilized to be able to control the vapor flow. A spark plug ignites the mixture of air and vapor producing pressure which moves the pistons. The pistons power the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.
Propane powered forklifts are suggested for use within warehouses and other buildings since they are clean burning with low emissions.
Hydraulics
What allows a forklift to raise and transport heavy objects from one location to another is the hydraulic system. Tubes, cylinders and a pump make up the hydraulic system. The pump forces dense fluid through the tubing and into the cylinders. The build up of pressure pushes a piston, that raises the forks. When the forks are lowered by the operator, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back into the pump.
Steering
Propane forklifts work well where maneuverability is necessary. Unlike a car, a forklift utilizes its rear wheels to turn, that enables the forklift to quickly turn on a tight radius.