The CLARK 8033336 DC-DC Converter is a vital auxiliary power supply component used in Clark electric forklifts and other material handling equipment. Its primary function is to convert the vehicle’s high DC battery voltage (from a 36V or 48V system) down to a stable, regulated 5V DC output.
This 5V power is essential for operating the forklift’s low-voltage control and sensory systems. It acts as the “power supply” for the vehicle’s electronic brain. The #2 designation differentiates it from other versions, almost certainly indicating a higher output current (amperage) than a #1 unit.
Key Specifications from the Label
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OEM Brand:Â CLARK
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Clark Part Number:Â 8033336
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Component Type:Â DC-DC CONVERTER
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Input Voltage: Designed for the nominal voltage of a 36V or 48V battery system. (The actual input range is designed to handle the fluctuating voltage of a battery under charge and discharge).
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Output Voltage: A stable, regulated 5 Volts DC.
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Output Current: The “#2” is a key differentiator. It indicates a higher amperage rating than the #1 version. This is typically in the range of 5-10 Amps, providing more power for vehicles with additional electronic features or more demanding control systems.
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Manufacturer’s Part Number:Â 140034Â (This is the part number from the original manufacturer who produced this converter for Clark).
Key Features and Functions
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Voltage Regulation:Â Provides a “clean,” stable 5V supply from a variable and often “noisy” battery voltage, which is crucial for the precise operation of sensitive electronics.
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Higher Current Capacity:Â The #2 rating means it can power more devices or more demanding systems without voltage drop or overload.
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Isolation:Â Provides electrical isolation between the high-voltage battery circuit and the low-voltage control circuit, protecting delicate components from voltage spikes.
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Protection Circuits:Â Includes built-in protection against:
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Input Under-Voltage:Â Prevents operation if the battery voltage drops too low.
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Input Over-Voltage:Â Protects the converter from voltage spikes.
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Output Over-Current / Short-Circuit:Â Safely shuts down if the connected load draws too much power.
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Over-Temperature:Â Shuts down if internal temperatures exceed safe limits.
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System Power:Â Supplies power to critical systems such as:
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The Main System Controller (the vehicle’s computer)
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Throttle Position Sensor (Accelerator pedal)
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Operator Presence Sensor (Seat switch)
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Dash Display / Warning Lights
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Solenoid Coils in the hydraulic control valve
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Advanced attachments with their own electronic controllers
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Common Applications
This specific converter (#2) is used in Clark electric forklifts that require a more robust 5V power supply. This is common in:
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Larger, more complex forklift models
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Vehicles with advanced dash displays or monitoring systems
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Forklifts designed to operate with electronically-controlled attachments
Important Notes for Replacement/Repair
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Critical Function:Â This is not a motor controller. It is a low-voltage power supply. Without it, the forklift will not function.
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Amperage Code is Critical: The #2 amperage code must be matched. Installing a lower-rated #1 converter could cause it to overload and fail, leading to system shutdown. Installing a higher-rated converter than necessary is generally safe but must be physically and connector compatible.
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Exact Replacement:Â The part number (8033336) and amperage code (#2) must be matched for a guaranteed compatible replacement.
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Diagnosis:Â Failure symptoms include:
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Complete loss of power (no dash lights, no response to key switch)
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Intermittent operation or resets
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Diagnostic trouble codes related to control unit communication or sensor faults.
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Installation: This is typically a plug-and-play component, but it is essential to disconnect the main battery power before installation.