Discussion:
mast lowering problem

5000lbs lift truck 3 stage mast. Free lift/carriage is lowering at twice the speed of mast channels/secondary cylinders.

Mast raises normal and has no problem lifting a load. When lowering from any height above free lift. The free lift will lower 1st and faster then the channels. If you release the handle to the neutral position the channels will continue lower and push Freelift up until the pressure is equalized. I have lubed the channels, have taken apart Freelift cylinder and resealed. Secondary lift cylinders have clear vent hoses at the top and there is no oil in the vents. At a loose as to what is causing this problem. I asked the customer if this problem just started with no warning or if the problem came on slowly....replied that problem just started out of the blue. I also chained up the carriage and lowered mast to see if the speed of the channels increased...only slightly faster.
Removed and disassembled a flow control valve that is in-line with supply line. Saw no obvious problems with valve.
  • Posted 25 Sep 2013 08:33
  • By hellcat
  • joined 19 Jan'13 - 4 messages
  • Florida, United States
Showing items 1 - 1 of 1 results.
Sounds to me like there is a small "cushioning" valve in the bottom of the free-lift cylinder ram that has either gone bad or is leaking past or fallen out. You will need to pull the ram all the way out to see and change it. it is about as big around as your pinkey and about 1/2 as long and right in the bottom center of the lift cylinder ram.
  • Posted 25 Sep 2013 20:07
  • By edward_t
  • joined 5 Mar'08 - 2,334 messages
  • South Carolina, United States
"it's not rocket surgery"

Post your Reply

Forkliftaction accepts no responsibility for forum content and requires forum participants to adhere to our rules of conduct. Click here for more information.

If you are having trouble using the Discussion Forums, please contact us for help.

Tusk 500PGH16
Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, United States
Used - Sale & Hire
SNORKEL A46JE
Yokohama, Japan
Used - Sale
Global Industry News
edition #1248 - 18 September 2025
In this week’s Forkliftaction News we report on the recent IMHX event in Birmingham with coverage of new product launches, key themes and observations from those attending. We also name the winners of the 2025 Archies Awards, held in conjunction with IMHX... Continue reading
Fact of the week
In May 2023, a Belgian Malinois named Wilson played a key role in the rescue of four children lost in the Amazon jungle. The young children were missing for 40 days after a plane crash that killed their mother and other adults. Wilson tracked the children's footprints, leading the military to their location.
Tusk 500PGH16
Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, United States
Used - Sale & Hire
SNORKEL A46JE
Yokohama, Japan
Used - Sale
Upcoming industry events …
October 15-16, 2025 - Amsterdam, United States
October 15-16, 2025 - Las Vegas, United States
June 30 - Jully 2, 2026 - Birmingham, United Kingdom