That's right, he did. and this is the second time ive responded with a technical answer. Ive also offered to help him out in private e-mail if things get too hot in here, _again_...

if that isnt to his satisfaction im sure he will let me know.

Do you disagree that the importance of safety isnt worth underscoring here especially as/re a forklift this old? Because discouraging safety warnings isnt helping anybody.

i dont know how tightly forklifts are regulated in the US but up here an operator's license is mandatory, an annual lifting device inspection is also mandatory, and anyone performing maintenance and repairs to a forklift has the burden to prove they are qualified to do so... failing that in a ministry of labour investigation carries a very stiff penalty---enough to bankrupt most of us.

not to mention the damage that truck can do if it breaks...