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Hyster S55FTS Specifications

Basic Information

The Hyster S55FTS is a mid-capacity internal-combustion cushion-tire forklift engineered for intensive indoor industrial use, combining the durability of the Fortis series with a compact chassis form. With a rated lifting capacity of approximately 5,500 lb (2,495 kg), the S55FTS is well suited for warehouses, freight-handling terminals, food-processing plants, manufacturing floors, and distribution centers where maneuverability, uptime, and predictable performance are essential.

The S designation identifies the cushion-tire configuration, optimized for smooth concrete surfaces, while the FT-series design represents Hyster’s effort to reduce maintenance costs through simplified servicing, longer component life, and enhanced cooling efficiency.

The S55FTS offers refined engine performance with either LPG or gasoline industrial engines, delivering strong torque at low speeds and efficient fuel consumption during multi-shift operation. Its electronically managed powershift transmission supports smooth directional transitions, and the operator compartment emphasizes visibility, ergonomic comfort, and intuitive control layout.

Although more technologically advanced than older models, the S55FTS maintains service-friendly access and robust mechanical systems, making it ideal for operations that require both modern efficiency and long-term reliability.

Engine Specs

The Hyster S55FTS can be equipped with multiple industrial engines depending on region and emissions regulations.

These include:
- Hyster / GCT (Nissan) K21 2.1-L LPG engine
- Hyster / GCT K25 2.5-L LPG engine (optional)
- GM 2.4-L gasoline/LPG engine (earlier variants)

Basic Engine Characteristics:
- Engine displacement: 2.1-2.5 L
- Rated power output: approx. 50-65 hp (37-48 kW)
- Peak torque range: approx. 95-125 lb-ft (129-169 Nm)
- Idle speed: approx. 650-750 rpm
- Maximum governed speed: approx. 2,500-2,700 rpm
- Fuel type: LPG or gasoline
- Ignition: distributorless electronic ignition (modern variants)

The engines provide smooth, efficient combustion with excellent throttle response. LPG versions support indoor operations due to reduced emissions and cleaner exhaust output.

Lubrication System

The lubrication system is a pressurized wet-sump design using a high-capacity gear-type oil pump.
- Sump capacity: approx. 4.0-5.0 L (4.2-5.3 qt)
- Operating oil pressure: 20-30 psi (138-207 kPa) idle; up to 70 psi (483 kPa) at rated speed
- Oil grade: SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 15W-40 depending on climate

A spin-on full-flow oil filter is standard. Oil coolers may be fitted for operations in high-heat duty cycles.

Cooling System


Cooling is provided by a forced-circulation liquid system.
- Coolant capacity: approx. 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Cooling system pressure: approx. 13-15 psi (90-103 kPa)
- Thermostat opening temperature: approx. 82°C (180°F)
- Cooling components: cross-flow radiator, belt-driven water pump, mechanical fan, shroud assembly

The cooling configuration maintains stable temperatures during long operational cycles and repetitive lifting.

Drive Train

Transmission

The S55FTS uses a durable electronically managed powershift transmission designed for smooth forward-reverse changes and minimal drivetrain wear.
- Type: single-speed hydraulic 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 III or approved industrial ATF

Electronic clutch modulation improves smoothness and reduces operator fatigue.

Drive Axle

The front drive axle is a heavy-duty industrial assembly designed to handle repeated shock loads.
- Axle lubricant capacity: approx. 2-3 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
- Lubricant type: SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Depending on variant, the axle may include planetary reduction hubs for increased durability.

Braking System

The braking configuration varies with production year.
- Service brakes: hydraulic drum brakes (most S-series trucks)
- Parking brake: mechanical hand-lever drum brake
- Option: wet-disc brakes in high-duty configurations

Electrical System

The S55FTS utilizes a 12-volt electrical system with electronic engine-management support.

Electrical Specifications:
- Battery capacity: approx. 70-90 Ah
- Alternator output: approx. 50-80 A
- Starter motor: approx. 1.8-2.2 kW
- ECM: controls ignition timing, mixture, and emissions

Safety functions include operator-presence system, neutral start interlock, and monitoring of key systems.

Wheels and Tires

The S55FTS uses a compact, welded-steel chassis that provides rigidity and stability under load.

Drive Configuration:
- Drive wheels: front
- Steering wheels: rear
- Drive type: 2WD

As a cushion-tire model, the S55FTS is optimized for smooth indoor flooring.

Tires:
- Front cushion tires: approx. 21x7x15
- Rear cushion tires: approx. 16x5x10.5

Non-marking tire options exist for clean environments such as food or pharmaceutical warehouses.

The steering system is fully hydrostatic, providing light steering effort regardless of load.

Steering Characteristics:
- Steering type: hydraulic orbitrol system
- Steering pump flow: approx. 6-10 L/min (1.6-2.6 gpm)
- Rear axle: oscillating type for surface irregularity compensation
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.1 m (75-83 in)

Hydraulic System

Lift, tilt, and auxiliary functions are powered by an engine-driven gear pump.

Hydraulic Specifications:
- Maximum system pressure: approx. 2,200-2,500 psi (152-172 bar)
- Pump flow: approx. 20-30 L/min (5.3-7.9 gpm)
- Hydraulic reservoir capacity: approx. 25-30 L (26-32 qt)
- Recommended oil: ISO VG 32 or VG 46 hydraulic oil

Hydraulic control levers actuate lift and tilt cylinders. Optional valves support sideshift, fork positioners, or clamp attachments.

Service Refill Capacities

- Engine oil: approx. 4.0-5.0 L (4.2-5.3 qt)
- Cooling system: approx. 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Transmission fluid: approx. 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Drive axle oil: approx. 2-3 L (2.1-3.2 qt)
- Hydraulic fluid: approx. 25-30 L (26-32 qt)

Mast Data

The S55FTS supports multiple mast configurations, offered in simplex, duplex, and triplex formats.

Mast Heights:
- Simplex: approx. 118 in (3.0 m)
- Duplex (with free lift): approx. 131-157 in (3.3-4.0 m)
- Triplex (full free lift): approx. 170-189 in (4.3-4.8 m)

Free-Lift Height:
- Duplex/triplex: approx. 1.2-1.5 m (47-59 in)

Fork Specifications:
- Standard fork length: 42-48 in (1,067-1,219 mm)
- Width: approx. 100 mm (4 in)
- Thickness: approx. 38-45 mm (1.5-1.75 in)

Load Capacity

Rated lifting capacity: 5,500 lb (2,495 kg) at a 24-in (610-mm) load center

De-rating occurs at increased mast heights, with attachments, or at extended load centers.

Performance Data

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. 3,500-5,500 N (785-1,235 lbf)

Dimensions and Weight

- Overall length to fork face: approx. 2.4-2.5 m (95-98 in)
- Overall width: approx. 1.10-1.15 m (43-45 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. 90-110 mm (3.5-4.3 in)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.1 m (75-83 in)
- Aisle width (1000x1200 pallet): approx. 3.6-3.8 m (142-150 in)
- Maximum fork height: 3.0-4.8 m depending on mast
- Free-lift height: approx. 1.2-1.5 m
- Fork lengths: 36-60 in optional
- Operating weight: 5,000-6,000 lb (2,268-2,722 kg)
- Counterweight mass: approx. 1,200-1,400 lb (544-635 kg)

Maintenance Data

250-Hour Service:
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Clean radiator fins
- Inspect mast chains and lubricate
- Inspect steering axle joints

500-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission filter
- Inspect hydraulic filter
- Check axle seals
- Tighten driveline fasteners

1,000-Hour Service:
- Replace transmission fluid
- Replace axle gear oil
- Inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings

2,000-Hour Service:
- Replace hydraulic fluid
- Replace coolant
- Full mast bearing, chain, and carriage roller inspection

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