A distribution center reported that a Jungheinrich ETV 320 reach truck's forks would tilt to the left when raised above 6 meters. The mast also made a "squealing" noise during extension.
The technician inspected the "Lift Chains." The chains are anchored to the bottom of the inner mast. He used a chain tension gauge. The left chain was tight (150N), while the right chain was loose (50N). The unequal tension pulled the inner mast frame to the left, causing it to bind against the rails.
He then checked the "Carriage Rollers." The top left roller was seized (would not spin). The seized roller was grinding against the mast rail, creating the squealing noise and damaging the rail surface. The seizure was caused by a lack of grease in the roller bearing.
The repair involved adjusting the chain anchor bolts to equalize the tension. The seized roller was replaced with a new "Needle Bearing Roller." The mast rails were cleaned and greased. The technician also checked the "Tilt Cylinders" to ensure the mast was perfectly vertical when lowered. After alignment, the forks extended smoothly without binding or tilting.
