Power
Many forklifts are made to operate on propane gas. Propane-powered forklifts are simple to refill. The gas is stored inside a pressurized tank on the truck's back. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and the vapor combines with air. The throttle of the forklift is utilized to control the vapor flow. A spark plug ignites the air and vapor mixture creating pressure that makes the pistons move. The pistons run the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.

As the types of forklifts that are powered by propane have low emissions and are clean burning, they are best to be used within other buildings and warehouses.

Hydraulics
The hydraulic system of the forklift is what enables it to lift and move really heavy objects from place to place. 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, which raises the forks. When the forks are lowered by the operator, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back in the pump.

Steering
Propane forklifts work well where maneuverability is required. Unlike an automobile, a forklift utilizes its back wheels to pivot, that enables the forklift to quickly turn on a tight radius.