Hyster H40H Specifications
The Hyster H40H is a mid-capacity internal-combustion
forklift from Hyster’s classic H-Series, designed during an era when forklifts
were engineered for rugged dependability, simple maintenance, and long service
life. With a nominal lifting capacity of 4,000 lb (1,814 kg), the H40H is
ideally suited for manufacturing plants, warehouses, fabrication shops,
freight-handling facilities, and general industrial operations requiring
reliable day-to-day material handling.
The cushion-tire configuration and compact form
factor make it especially well-suited for indoor environments and smooth
concrete surfaces. Known for its robust steel frame, straightforward
mechanical controls, and dependable hydraulic performance, the H40H
continues to be used decades after production.
Its conservative mechanical design—minimal
electronics, durable drive components, and service-friendly layout—makes
it a preferred choice for operations where simplicity and durability
matter more than modern electronic features. Replacement parts remain
widely available, helping extend the service life of this proven
industrial workhorse.
The H40H was equipped with several industrial engines
over its production span.
Common powerplant options include:
- GM 2.5 L or 3.0 L inline-four gasoline/LPG industrial engine
- Continental F162/F163 gasoline engine
- Mazda or Ford industrial LPG engines depending on configuration
Basic Engine Characteristics:
- Displacement: approx. 2.5-3.0 L
- Rated power output: approx. 45-60 hp (34-45 kW)
- Rated torque: approx. 95-120 lb-ft (129-163 Nm)
- Idle speed: approx. 650-750 rpm
- Maximum governed speed: approx. 2,400-2,600 rpm
- Fuel type: gasoline or LPG
- Ignition: mechanical distributor with points and coil (early models),
electronic conversion optional
These industrial engines prioritize low-end torque, durability, and
serviceability.
Lubrication System
A wet-sump, full-pressure lubrication system keeps engine components protected
during continuous use.
- Oil capacity: approx. 4.0-5.0 L (4.2-5.3 qt)
- Oil pressure: approx. 20-30 psi (138-207 kPa) at idle; up to 60 psi (414 kPa)
at rated speed
- Recommended oil viscosity: SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 depending on climate
- Filtration: replaceable spin-on oil filter
Regular oil changes are essential due to the dusty environment typical of
industrial floor operations.
Cooling System
The cooling system is a forced-circulation liquid system.
- Coolant capacity: approx. 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Cooling system pressure: approx. 12-15 psi (83-103 kPa)
- Thermostat opening temperature: approx. 82°C (180°F)
- Water pump: belt-driven centrifugal
- Cooling fan: engine-driven mechanical fan
Blockage-free radiator airflow is required to prevent overheating in continuous
lift cycles.
Transmission
The H40H uses a reliable hydraulic powershift transmission.
- Type: single-speed powershift
- Forward travel speed (unladen): approx. 10-12 mph (16-19 km/h)
- Reverse travel speed: approx. 10-11 mph (16-18 km/h)
- Transmission fluid capacity: approx. 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Recommended fluid: ATF Dexron II/III or Type-A
Directional shifting is performed via lever-operated hydraulically actuated
clutch packs.
Drive Axle
The cast-steel drive axle transmits power to the front cushion tires.
- Lubrication capacity: approx. 2.0-3.0 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
- Lubricant: SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Planetary hubs may be present depending on variant.
Brakes
The braking system is simple, durable, and designed for heavy-duty industrial
service.
- Service brakes: hydraulic drum brakes
- Parking brake: mechanically applied drum brake
Frequent cleaning and adjustment may be required in dusty work environments.
The H40H uses a basic 12-volt electrical configuration.
- Battery: approx. 55-75 Ah
- Alternator/generator output: approx. 35-55 A
- Starter motor: approx. 1.8-2.0 kW
- Ignition: mechanical distributor
This minimalistic layout reduces electrical failure potential and simplifies
troubleshooting.
The heavy welded-steel chassis is engineered for
long-term rigidity.
Drive Configuration:
- Drive wheels: front
- Steering wheels: rear
- Drive mode: 2WD
As a cushion-tire forklift, the H40H is optimized for smooth indoor floors.
Tire sizes:
- Front: approx. 21x7x15
- Rear: approx. 16x5x10.5
Non-marking tires are common in food distribution and manufacturing sectors.
The forklift uses rear-wheel steering with hydraulic assist.
Steering:
- Steering type: hydrostatic orbitrol
- Pump flow: approx. 6-10 L/min (1.6-2.6 gpm)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.2 m (75-87 in)
- Rear axle: oscillating design for stability on uneven flooring
Hydraulic power drives lift, tilt, and optional
auxiliary functions.
- System pressure: approx. 2,000-2,500 psi (138-172 bar)
- Pump type: engine-driven gear pump
- Pump flow: approx. 20-30 L/min (5.3-7.9 gpm)
- Hydraulic tank capacity: approx. 25-30 L (26-32 qt)
- Fluid type: ISO VG 32 or VG 46 hydraulic oil
Manual or servo-operated valves control hydraulic circuits.
| Service Refill Capacities |
- Engine oil: 4.0-5.0 L (4.2-5.3 qt)
- Coolant: 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Transmission: 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Drive axle: 2-3 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
- Hydraulic system: 25-30 L (26-32 qt)
The H40H supports a wide range of mast styles.
Mast Heights:
- Simplex (2-stage): approx. 3.0 m (118 in)
- Duplex (2-stage with free-lift): approx. 3.3-4.0 m (131-157 in)
- Triplex (3-stage full free-lift): approx. 4.3-4.8 m (170-189 in)
Free-Lift Height:
- Duplex/triplex: approx. 1.2-1.5 m (47-59 in)
Fork Data:
- Length: 1,067-1,219 mm (42-48 in)
- Width: approx. 100 mm (4 in)
- Thickness: approx. 40 mm (1.6 in)
Rated load capacity: 4,000 lb (1,814 kg) at 24-in
(610-mm) load center
Capacity decreases with:
- High lift elevation
- Long forks
- Attachments
Lift Speeds:
- Unladen: approx. 100-120 ft/min (0.50-0.60 m/s)
- Laden: approx. 80-100 ft/min (0.40-0.50 m/s)
Lowering Speeds:
- Unladen: approx. 100-130 ft/min
- Laden: approx. 110-140 ft/min
Gradeability:
- Unladen: approx. 15%
- Laden: approx. 10%
Drawbar Pull:
- approx. 3,500-5,000 N (785-1,120 lbf)
- Overall length to fork face: approx. 2.2-2.3 m (87-91
in)
- Overall width: approx. 1.05-1.10 m (41-43 in)
- Overhead guard height: approx. 2.0-2.1 m (79-83 in)
- Wheelbase: approx. 1.40-1.50 m (55-59 in)
- Ground clearance: approx. 90-110 mm (3.5-4.3 in)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.2 m (75-87 in)
- Aisle width (with 1000x1200 mm pallet): approx. 3.5-3.7 m (138-146 in)
- Maximum fork height: 3.0-4.8 m depending on mast
- Free lift: approx. 1.2-1.5 m
- Fork lengths: 36-60 in optional
- Operating weight: 4,300-5,100 lb (1,950-2,313 kg)
- Counterweight mass: approx. 1,100-1,300 lb (499-590 kg)
250-Hour Service:
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Lubricate mast
- Clean radiator
- Inspect steering joints
500-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission filter
- Inspect hydraulic filter
- Check axle seals
1,000-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission fluid
- Replace axle oil
2,000-Hour Service:
- Replace hydraulic fluid
- Replace coolant
- Conduct full mast inspection
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