This all depends on the manufacturer.
is this just a visual inspection of the oil, or do they require samples be collected and sent in for analysis?
Most if not all forklift manufacturers that sell forklifts in the U.S. recommend checking all fluids (not including the battery) after the first 50 hours of operation.
You'll need to see if there is any debris in the fluids, and if there is, then whichever fluid has debris in it needs to be replaced.
On some of the models there are pre 500 hr. services that need to be done. Bendi also has some items that require service before the first scheduled maintenance.
Thanks BREWSKI.
I guess what I am asking is, if the machine requires its first PM at, say, 500 hours, does Yale/Hyster have any specific requirements, such as gearbox oil changes, or engine oil changes, to remove break in oil, at an interval before the initial PM time?
It is dependent on the manufacturer. Yale/Hyster has specific intervals for specific models depending on how the unit is equipped.