Power
Many forklifts are designed to run on propane gas. Forklifts that use propane are very simple to refill. The gas is stored in a pressurized tank on the truck's rear. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and then the vapor mixes with air. The throttle of the forklift is utilized to be able to control the flow of vapor. A spark plug ignites the mixture of air and vapor producing pressure which makes the pistons move. The pistons power the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.
As the types of forklifts which are operated by propane are clean burning and have low emissions, they are suitable to be used within warehouses and other buildings.
Hydraulics
What enables a forklift to raise and transport heavy objects 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, that raises the forks. When the operator lowers the forks, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back in the pump.
Steering
Where maneuverability is needed, propane forklifts are the most suitable. Not like a car, a forklift uses its back wheels to pivot, that enables the forklift to turn fast on a tight radius.