Massachusetts Hoisting License Practice Test

What might cause the controls of a forklift to feel spongy?

1. Low oil level

2. Air in the system, low fluid, kinked line, or bad filters

3. Misalignment of the forks

4. Excessive load weight

The correct answer is: Air in the system, low fluid, kinked line, or bad filters

The sensation of sponginess in the controls of a forklift can often be attributed to air in the hydraulic system, low fluid levels, kinked hydraulic lines, or clogged filters. Each of these factors interferes with the proper fluid flow within the hydraulic system, which is essential for responsive and precise control of the forklift's movements. When air becomes trapped in the hydraulics, it compresses under pressure, preventing the hydraulic fluid from delivering consistent force to the controls. Similarly, low fluid levels can prevent the hydraulic system from maintaining the necessary pressure, leading to a loss of responsiveness. Kinked hydraulic lines can restrict fluid flow, while clogged filters may hinder the system's ability to circulate fluid effectively. Therefore, when the controls feel spongy, it is a sign that the hydraulic system is not functioning optimally, and addressing one or more of these issues is crucial for restoring normal operation. In contrast, while options like low oil level or misalignment of the forks may lead to operational inefficiencies, they do not primarily lead to a spongy feel in the controls. Excessive load weight can affect the forklift's lifting capability but does not typically influence the hydraulic feel directly. Thus, focusing on the hydraulic components provides the most accurate