Power
Numerous forklifts are designed to operate on propane gas. Forklifts that use propane are easy to refill. The gas is stored inside a pressurized tank on the back of the truck. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and the vapor mixes with air. The forklift throttle is used to control the flow of vapor. A spark plug fires up the mix of vapor and air creating pressure that makes the pistons move. The pistons power the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.

Forklifts that utilize propane are recommended for use inside warehouses and other buildings since they are clean burning with low emissions.

Hydraulics
What enables a forklift to lift and transport heavy stuff from one place to another is the hydraulic system. A pump, tubes and cylinders make up the hydraulic system. The pump forces dense fluid in the tubing and into the cylinders. The build up of pressure pushes a piston, which lifts the forks. When the forks are lowered by the operator, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back into the pump.

Steering
Where maneuverability is required, propane forklifts are the most suitable. Not like a car, a forklift makes use of its back wheels to turn, which allows the forklift to quickly pivot on a tight radius.