Power
Numerous forklifts are made to operate on propane gas. Forklifts that utilize propane are really easy to refill. The gas is stored in a pressurized tank on the rear of the truck. The propane is pushed into the engine, where it is converted into vapor and the vapor mixes with air. The forklift throttle is utilized to control the vapor flow. A spark plug fires up the mixture of air and vapor producing pressure that makes the pistons move. The pistons turn the wheels and power the hydraulic pump.

Propane powered forklifts are recommended for use within other buildings and warehouses since they are clean burning with low emissions.

Hydraulics
What allows a forklift to raise and transport heavy objects from one place to another is the hydraulic system. Cylinders, a pump and tubes make up the hydraulic system. The pump forces dense fluid through the tubing and into the cylinders. The pressure build up pushes a piston, which lifts the forks. When the forks are lowered by the operator, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the cylinders and back into the pump.

Steering
Propane forklifts work well where maneuverability is required. Not like a car, a forklift uses its back wheels to turn, that allows the forklift to rapidly turn on a tight radius.