Electric slab scissor lifts are essential for many industries, offering a quiet and efficient way to work at height indoors or on smooth surfaces. However, like any equipment, they can develop issues over time. Understanding these problems—and how to prevent or fix them—can save you time, money, and hassle.

Here’s a closer look at the top five most common electric scissor lift issues and some tips to keep your equipment running smoothly.

Batteries are the lifeblood of electric scissor lifts, but they’re often neglected. Without routine maintenance, problems like corrosion and degraded connections can arise. Overcharging can cause the battery to overheat, leading to water boiling out and eventually leaving the battery too dry to function.

One of the most frustrating electric scissor lift issues is when your lift refuses to power on. Often, the culprit is a worn or malfunctioning emergency stop (E-stop) contact block. This small but vital component can cause the battery gauge to read as if it’s dead, even when fully charged.

Control box connectors are another weak spot prone to corrosion, especially if your lift is exposed to harsh environments or improper storage. This can lead to communication issues between the lift’s controls and its operational systems.

While electric scissor lifts don’t rely on hydraulic systems for their primary function, steering and lift systems often include hydraulic components. Hydraulic hoses, in particular, are subject to wear from constant bending and exposure to the elements.

The electric motor is the heart of your scissor lift’s performance, but it’s vulnerable to damage from debris, moisture, and corrosion. Over time, these issues can lead to short circuits or complete motor failure.

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