What type of suspension do forklifts have?

Most forklifts use a leaf spring suspension system. Leaf springs are long, flat pieces of spring steel that flex under load. They are attached to the forklift frame at one end and the axle at the other. When the forklift is loaded, the springs flex and absorb the shock of the load. Leaf springs are relatively simple and inexpensive to maintain, but they can be quite stiff, which can make the ride rough for the forklift operator.

Some forklifts use a coil spring suspension system. Coil springs are helical (coiled) pieces of spring steel that compress under load. They are attached to the forklift frame at one end and the axle at the other. When the forklift is loaded, the springs compress and absorb the shock of the load. Coil springs provide a smoother ride than leaf springs, but they are more expensive and require more maintenance.

A few forklifts use an air suspension system. Air springs are inflatable bags made of rubber or fabric. They are attached to the forklift frame at one end and the axle at the other. When the forklift is loaded, the air springs inflate and absorb the shock of the load. Air springs provide the smoothest ride of all three types of suspension, but they are also the most expensive.