Power
Many forklifts are designed to run on propane gas. Propane-powered forklifts are very easy 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 forklift throttle is used to control the flow of vapor. A spark plug fires up the vapor and air mixture creating pressure which makes the pistons move. The pistons power the hydraulic pump and turn the wheels.

Since the kinds of forklifts that are operated by propane are clean burning and have low emissions, they are suitable to be utilized within other buildings and warehouses.

Hydraulics
What allows a forklift to raise and move heavy stuff from one place to another is the hydraulic system. Tubes, cylinders and a pump 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 lifts the forks. When the operator lowers the forks, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back into the pump.

Steering
Propane forklifts work well where maneuverability is required. Unlike an automobile, a forklift utilizes its rear wheels to turn, which enables the forklift to turn fast on a tight radius.