A forklift reach cylinder(also known as a forward cylinder) pushes the reach carriage toward racking and retracts it back within the truck frame. Its mounting centres, stroke and retracted length must align with the linkage geometry, ensuring the carriage reaches target load positions without bottoming out or mechanical interference.
For aftermarket replacement and OEM projects, the cylinder must be specified alongside the full reach mechanism. Pin dimensions, port orientation, working pressure, hose routing and load paths all impact fit and consistent performance within narrow warehouse aisle environments.
Do not select a replacement by bore and stroke alone. Confirm the cylinder against the truck, linkage and hydraulic circuit before ordering.
| Parameter | What to provide | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bore and rod diameter | Measured sizes or approved drawing | Relates to available force, return force, stability and fit within the mechanism. |
| Stroke and lengths | Stroke, pin-to-pin closed length and extended length | Controls reach travel and prevents over-travel, bottoming or rack-side interference. |
| Mounting interfaces | Eye or clevis type, pin diameters, widths, centers and alignment | Ensures the load remains axial and the cylinder fits the existing brackets. |
| Ports and pressure | Port thread, position, working/peak pressure, flow and hose clearance | Supports connection compatibility, travel speed and safe hose routing. |
| Seals and environment | Fluid, temperature, duty cycle, dust, moisture and storage conditions | Guides seal and surface-treatment discussion for the operating environment. |
Share the machine model, reach geometry and approved dimensions. Bore, rod, stroke, retracted/extended length, mounts, pins, ports, cushioning and seal requirements can then be reviewed as one configuration.
If a drawing is unavailable, provide the existing part number, clear photos and measured interfaces. A replacement still requires confirmation of hydraulic pressure, function and all installation dimensions.
Inspect pins, bushings, rod surface, seals, ports and hoses. Side loading from worn linkage, contaminated oil, damaged rod surfaces or loose mounts can accelerate leakage and uneven travel.
In reach-truck applications, both names commonly describe the cylinder that extends and retracts the reach carriage. Confirm the actual machine function and linkage when requesting a quote.
Confirm bore, rod diameter, stroke, closed and extended pin-to-pin lengths, mount type, pin sizes, clevis widths, port threads and port positions.
A sample can support measurement, but operating pressure, function, installation orientation and acceptance requirements should also be documented before an approved replacement drawing is released.
Depending on the truck, the system may also use a lifting cylinder, tilt cylinder and steering cylinder. Browse the forklift hydraulic cylinder collection or the warehouse forklift application.