Hyster S50E Specifications
The Hyster S50E is a classic 5,000-lb (2,268-kg)
capacity internal-combustion, cushion-tire forklift from the well-known Hyster
E-Series, a generation of lift trucks engineered for durability, simplicity, and
long-term serviceability.
Produced during a time when industrial
equipment was built with mechanical robustness and minimal electronics,
the S50E became highly valued in warehouses, fabrication facilities,
freight docks, manufacturing operations, and material-handling
environments where consistent performance, ease of maintenance, and
reliability under demanding workloads were essential.
This model relies on tough steel chassis construction, a straightforward
powershift drivetrain, and dependable gasoline or LPG industrial
engines. The S50E’s compact dimensions and cushion-tire configuration
make it highly maneuverable in tight indoor spaces, narrow aisles, and
loading docks.
The mast assembly offers good visibility,
stable lift characteristics, and strong load handling at its 24-in
(610-mm) load center. Although the S50E predates modern electronic
enhancements, its mechanical simplicity, rugged reliability, and
longevity have kept it in service decades after production.
The Hyster S50E was available with several industrial
engines depending on production year.
Common options include:
- Continental F162 or F163 inline-four gasoline engine
- GM 3.0L or 2.5L LPG/gasoline industrial engines
- Mazda or Ford industrial LPG engines in later years
Basic Engine Characteristics:
- Displacement: approx. 2.5-3.0 L
- Rated power output: approx. 50-65 hp (37-48 kW)
- Torque output: approx. 100-135 lb-ft (135-183 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/coil system or early electronic
modules
The engine platforms were designed for high durability, stable torque delivery,
and easy access for repair.
Lubrication System
The lubrication system is a full-pressure wet-sump layout using a
crankshaft-driven gear pump.
- Oil capacity: approx. 4.0-5.0 L (4.2-5.3 qt)
- Oil pressure: approx. 20-30 psi (138-207 kPa) at idle; 45-60 psi (310-414 kPa)
at rated rpm
- Oil type: SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 depending on climate
A replaceable spin-on full-flow oil filter provides consistent lubrication
quality.
Cooling System
The S50E uses a forced-circulation liquid-cooling system with a mechanical fan.
- Coolant capacity: approx. 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Thermostat opening temp: approx. 82°C (180°F)
- Cooling system pressure: approx. 12-15 psi (83-103 kPa)
Frequent radiator cleaning is recommended for dusty indoor environments.
Transmission
The S50E includes a heavy-duty hydraulic powershift transmission.
- Type: single-speed powershift
- Forward travel speed (unladen): approx. 10-12 mph (16-19 km/h)
- Reverse speed: approx. 10-11 mph (16-18 km/h)
- Fluid capacity: approx. 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Fluid type: ATF Dexron II/III or Type-A equivalent
Directional changes occur through hydraulically actuated clutch packs controlled
by a lever-type selector.
Drive Axle
The drive axle is a reinforced cast-steel assembly engineered for heavy
industrial duty.
- Lubricant: SAE 80W-90 gear oil
- Capacity: approx. 2-3 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
Planetary reduction hubs may be present depending on configuration.
Brakes
The S50E braking system is rugged and simple.
- Service brakes: hydraulic drum brakes
- Parking brake: mechanical hand-lever drum or band-type
Drum brakes require periodic adjustment and cleaning in dusty locations.
The S50E features a basic 12-volt electrical
architecture.
- Battery: approx. 55-75 Ah
- Alternator/generator output: approx. 35-55 A
- Starter motor: approx. 1.8-2.0 kW
Ignition is typically handled by a mechanical distributor with points,
condenser, and ignition coil. Later units may use electronic ignition conversion
kits.
The S50E uses a weld-constructed steel frame engineered
for high rigidity and minimal flex.
Drive Configuration:
- Drive wheels: front
- Steering wheels: rear
- Drive mode: 2WD
Tires:
- Front: approx. 21x7x15
- Rear: approx. 16x5x10.5
Solid, non-marking, or high-durometer compounds may be installed.
Rear-wheel steering enables tight maneuverability.
Steering:
- Steering type: hydrostatic, orbitrol valve
- Steering pump flow: approx. 6-10 L/min (1.6-2.6 gpm)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.1 m (75-83 in)
- Rear axle: oscillating to maintain tire contact
Hydraulic circuits control lift, tilt, and optional
attachments.
- 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 reservoir: approx. 25-30 L (26-32 qt)
- Fluid: ISO VG 32 or VG 46
The hydraulic system uses mechanical valve levers with durable spools and seals.
| 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 fluid: 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Drive axle oil: 2-3 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
- Hydraulic fluid: 25-30 L (26-32 qt)
The S50E supports multiple mast configurations
including simplex, duplex, and triplex designs.
Mast Heights:
- Simplex: approx. 3.0 m (118 in)
- Duplex (with free lift): approx. 3.3-4.0 m (131-157 in)
- Triplex (full free lift): approx. 4.3-4.8 m (170-189 in)
Free-Lift:
- Duplex/triplex: approx. 1.2-1.5 m (47-59 in)
Fork Specifications:
- Length: 1,067-1,219 mm (42-48 in)
- Width: approx. 100 mm (4 in)
- Thickness: approx. 38-44 mm (1.5-1.75 in)
Rated capacity: 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) at 24-in (610-mm)
load center
Capacity de-rates at higher lift heights and when attachments are installed.
- Lift speed (unladen): approx. 100-120 ft/min
(0.50-0.60 m/s)
- Lift speed (laden): approx. 80-100 ft/min (0.40-0.50 m/s)
- Lowering (unladen): approx. 100-130 ft/min
- Lowering (laden): approx. 110-140 ft/min
- Gradeability (unladen): approx. 15%
- Gradeability (laden): approx. 10%
- Drawbar pull: approx. 3,500-5,000 N (785-1,120 lbf)
- Overall length to fork face: approx. 2.3-2.4 m (91-95
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. 1.45-1.50 m (57-59 in)
- Ground clearance: approx. 95-110 mm (3.7-4.3 in)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.1 m (75-83 in)
- Aisle width (with 1000x1200 pallet): approx. 3.6-3.8 m (142-150 in)
- Maximum fork height: 3.0-4.8 m depending on mast
- Free lift: approx. 1.2-1.5 m
- Fork lengths: 42-48 in standard; optional 36-60 in
- Operating weight: 4,800-5,600 lb (2,177-2,540 kg)
- Counterweight: approx. 1,200-1,400 lb (544-635 kg)
250-Hour Service:
- Change engine oil and filter
- Clean radiator fins
- Lubricate mast sliding surfaces and pins
- Inspect steering components
500-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission filter
- Inspect hydraulic filter
- Inspect axle seals
- Tighten driveline bolts
1,000-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission fluid
- Replace axle lubricant
- Inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings
2,000-Hour Service:
- Replace hydraulic fluid
- Replace coolant
- Fully inspect mast bearings, chains, and carriage rollers
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