Power
Many forklifts are made to run on propane gas. Forklifts which use propane are easy to refill. The gas is stored inside a pressurized tank on the rear of the truck. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and then the vapor combines with air. The forklift throttle is utilized to be able to control the vapor flow. A spark plug fires up the mix of air and vapor creating pressure that makes the pistons move. The pistons turn the wheels and power the hydraulic pump.

Forklifts that use propane are suggested for use inside other buildings and warehouses because they are clean burning with low emissions.

Hydraulics
What enables a forklift to raise and move heavy objects from one location to another is the hydraulic system. A pump, tubes and cylinders 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 operator lowers the forks, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back in the pump.

Steering
Propane forklifts work well where maneuverability is needed. Unlike an automobile, a forklift makes use of its rear wheels to pivot, which allows the forklift to rapidly pivot on a tight radius.