If the truck will operate primarily outdoors in a cold climate, a gasoline-powered truck is the most logical choice. This is particularly true if the operations call for constant engine starts and stops. Diesel-engine lifts, on the other hand, are designed to perform in more rugged conditions and terrain. The diesel truck should be used constantly so the engine doesn't have to be shut off. You'll kill a diesel truck if you have to crank the engine every two minutes.
Frequent ignition starts spray excess fuel into the engine crankcase, thus contaminating the oil.
For that reason, we recommend that owners of diesel lifts change their oil regularly. The other type of lift truck designed for outdoor use is powered by liquid petroleum, commonly dubbed LP, and competes for the same market as gasoline-fueled models. LP trucks, however, are generally favored for operations that call for both indoor and outdoor use because their fumes are less toxic than those of gasoline trucks. Fuel costs for operating LP or diesel lift trucks are about equal, but maintenance costs for diesels tend to be lower. Users sometimes equip LP trucks with a hood or heater to volatize the gas in a cold climate.