Forklift Drive & Traction Motors
AC & DC traction and pump motors for electric forklifts
A forklift traction (drive) motor turns the wheels and a pump motor drives the hydraulics. Electric trucks use AC motors (paired with Curtis/ZAPI controllers) or older DC motors with carbon brushes. ForkliftIQ supplies new and remanufactured drive and pump motors compatible with Heli, Hangcha, EP, Toyota, Linde, Jungheinrich, Hyster, Crown and other major brands.
AC vs DC drive motors
AC motors are brushless, more efficient and now standard; DC motors are simpler but use carbon brushes that wear. If your truck is older and loses power gradually, brushes are often the fix rather than a whole motor. Always confirm the motor is the fault — controllers, contactors and encoders cause similar symptoms.
Parts grade — OEM, aftermarket & economy
| Grade | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / Genuine | Original manufacturer part number | Warranty & critical components |
| Branded Aftermarket | Reputable replacement brands (Curtis, EVE, etc.) | Best value + reliability |
| Economy / OE-equivalent | Cost-optimized equivalent | Budget & wear items |
Grades are indicative; we confirm the exact match against your part number or nameplate photo.
Selection guide — what to check before ordering
To match the correct part the first time, have these details ready (or send a photo and we cross-reference):
- Motor type — AC or DC (match your truck and controller)
- Voltage / power rating stamped on the nameplate
- Shaft, flange and mounting dimensions
- Brand & model fitment (and serial number)
- New, exchange or remanufactured
Troubleshooting this part? See our guide: Forklift Drive Motor Problems.
Compatibility & cross-reference
We cross-reference forklift drive, traction and pump motors by OEM part number, voltage and forklift model. Send your brand, model, serial number and the number stamped on the old part (or a photo) and we confirm the correct replacement before quoting. A full OEM ↔ aftermarket cross-reference table is being added to each part page.
| Send us | Why |
|---|---|
| Brand + model + serial | Narrows to the exact spec for your truck |
| OEM part number / nameplate photo | Direct cross-reference to replacement |
| Voltage & capacity (where relevant) | Confirms electrical match |
Related parts & guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of motor does a forklift use?
A traction motor for travel and a pump motor for hydraulics — AC on modern trucks, DC with brushes on older ones.
How do I test a forklift drive motor?
Check for power loss, overheating and fault codes; measure winding resistance and inspect brushes (DC). Rule out the encoder, contactor and controller first.
Can you remanufacture my motor?
Yes — send the brand, model and motor part/serial number for a reman or replacement cross-reference.
Do you stock pump motors too?
Yes — both traction and hydraulic pump motors are available.
Need this part fast?
Send the brand, part number or a nameplate photo — we cross-reference and quote from a worldwide parts network.
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