If you’re looking at a Hyster S50FT, you’re looking at one of the more common 5,000-lb cushion-tire forklifts on the used and new market — a Fortis-series LP gas unit built for smooth-floor indoor and light outdoor work.
This guide covers what the S50FT actually is, where it's used, what to check before you buy, and where it ranks against similar-class competitors.
The S50FT is part of Hyster’s Fortis series, a lineup of LP gas, cushion-tire forklifts built for warehousing and light-duty yard work. To understand more about this forklift, let's break down its model code:
This model is the perfect mid-size range forklift that most general warehouse operations need, and it performs best on smooth concrete floors instead of gravel or unfinished lots.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Rated capacity | 5,000 lbs @ 24” load center |
| Fuel type | LP gas (propane) |
| Tire type | Cushion |
| Engine | 4-cylinder, 2.4L, ~59 hp @ 2,700 rpm |
| Lift speed (loaded) | ~120 ft/min |
| Gradeability (loaded) | 33% |
| Operating weight | ~8,587 lbs |
| Front tires | 21 x 7 x 15 |
| Rear tires | 16 x 5 x 10.5 |
Due to its capacity and cushion tires, this forklift is common in distribution centers, manufacturing floors, indoor dock work, and similar surfaces. Consider your work environment and lifting needs to determine if the Hyster S50FT can work for you.
The S50FT is probably a good fit if:
The S50FT is probably NOT a good fit if:
New vs. used is the most common purchasing debate — and both have their own set of benefits. Buying new gets you a factory warranty and the exact configuration you want from the start. Buying used is a cost-effective way to expand your fleet, but only if the numbers make sense.
The S50FT is one of the most common, well-supported resale units, so purchasing used is where most of the market activity for this model actually happens.
If you’re shopping used, protect your investment by verifying that your forklift is in good condition before you buy.
Need help remembering what's most important to inspect? Download our used forklift inspection checklist.
Download the ChecklistThe S50FT competes with other mid-size (4,500 - 5,500 lb) cushion-tire LP gas forklifts from Toyota, Yale, Crown, and CAT. Most models in this class are built to handle a very similar job, especially at this capacity and fuel type. The differences between brands tend to come down to service network availability, parts cost and, lead time, and operator-compartment preferences more than raw capability.
If you’re cross-shopping, the better question to ask is less “which brand lifts more” and more “which brand has a dealer and parts supply near you.” This consideration alone can save you significant time and money throughout your unit's lifespan.
Many factors impact the price or resale value of a used forklift. The Hyster S50FT is a popular model with a deep used market, so pricing varies widely by the hours, condition, region, and more.
123Forklift makes it easy to request and compare quotes on Hyster S50FTs for sale near you. Visit our inventory of sit-down riders or request a quote now to see what a fair price looks like.
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