Power
Many forklifts are designed to operate on propane gas. Propane-powered forklifts are easy 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 afterward the vapor mixes with air. The throttle of the forklift is used to control the vapor flow. A spark plug fires up the mixture of vapor and air creating pressure that moves the pistons. The pistons power the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.

Because the kinds of forklifts that are powered by propane are clean burning and have low emissions, they are suitable to be utilized in warehouses and other buildings.

Hydraulics
The hydraulic system of the forklift is what allows it to raise and transport really heavy objects from location to location. Cylinders, a pump and tubes make up the hydraulic system. The pump forces dense fluid through the tubing and into the cylinders. The pressure build up pushes a piston, that lifts 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 makes use of its back wheels to pivot, which enables the forklift to turn quickly on a tight radius.