Forklift truck

Forklift truck, Heavy duty, Series II by Matbro (Mathew Brothers) of Wallington, Surrey. (ca.1954)

This machine is representative of the type of industrial machinery made by Matbro. Matbro Limited was a manufacturer of industrial handling machinery that was founded in 1949 by the Mathew brothers in Surrey. Matbro was well-known for its forklift trucks, which gained an international reputation as being a reliable machine in difficult and arduous conditions, especially over rough terrain. These forklifts were crucial to Matbro’s growth from a small family-run business to a large company employing 500 people.

This particular forklift had a three-point suspension system with 4-wheel ground contact that increased stability. It could reach 12 to 15 mph with maximum load. The truck featured a Fordson Major power unit, overhead mast tilting mechanism enabling greater control and a split ‘chassis’ design which allowed easy access to the engine and transmission.

The engine and transmission components were standard automotive parts which reduced maintenance costs and ensured rapid replacement through a worldwide spares service.