Power
Many forklifts are made to run on propane gas. Forklifts that utilize propane are really simple to refill. The gas is stored in a pressurized tank on the truck's back. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and afterward the vapor combines with air. The throttle of the forklift is utilized to be able to control the vapor flow. A spark plug fires up the vapor and air mixture producing pressure which makes the pistons move. The pistons turn the wheels and run the hydraulic pump.

Since the kinds of forklifts that are operated by propane have low emissions and are clean burning, they are suitable to be used inside other buildings and warehouses.

Hydraulics
What allows a forklift to raise and move heavy objects from one location to another is the hydraulic system. Tubes, cylinders and a pump make up the hydraulic system. The pump forces dense fluid in the tubing and into the cylinders. The pressure build up 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 necessary. Unlike a car, a forklift utilizes its rear wheels to turn, that allows the forklift to quickly pivot on a tight radius.