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 #3 designation differentiates it from other versions, indicating a specific output current (amperage) rating, which is higher than the #1 and #2 versions.
Key Specifications from the Label
-
OEM Brand:Â CLARK
-
Clark Part Number:Â 8033336
-
Component Type:Â DC-DC CONVERTER
-
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, typically from ~30V to 60V+).
-
Output Voltage: A stable, regulated 5 Volts DC.
-
Output Current: The “#3” is a key differentiator. It indicates a specific, higher amperage rating than the #1 and #2 versions. This is typically in the range of 10-15 Amps, providing substantial power for vehicles with extensive electronic features or more demanding control systems.
-
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
-
High-Current Voltage Regulation:Â Provides a “clean,” stable 5V supply from a variable battery voltage, which is crucial for the precise operation of multiple sensitive electronics simultaneously.
-
High Current Capacity:Â The #3 rating means it is designed to power systems with significant electrical loads, ensuring stable voltage even when multiple systems are active.
-
Electrical Isolation:Â Provides isolation between the high-voltage battery circuit and the low-voltage control circuit, protecting delicate components from voltage spikes and transients on the main power line.
-
Protection Circuits:Â Includes built-in protection against:
-
Input Under-Voltage:Â Prevents operation if the battery voltage drops too low, protecting the battery from deep discharge.
-
Input Over-Voltage:Â Protects the converter from voltage spikes.
-
Output Over-Current / Short-Circuit:Â Protects the converter and the connected control units if a fault occurs.
-
Over-Temperature:Â Shuts down if internal temperatures exceed safe limits.
-
-
System Power:Â Supplies power to critical systems such as:
-
The Main System Controller (the vehicle’s computer)
-
Throttle Position Sensor (Accelerator pedal)
-
Operator Presence Sensor (Seat switch)
-
Dash Display / Warning Lights
-
Solenoid Coils in the hydraulic control valve
-
Advanced attachments with their own electronic controllers
-
Common Applications
This specific converter (#3) is used in Clark electric forklifts that require a high-capacity 5V power supply. This is common in:
-
Larger, more complex forklift models
-
Vehicles with advanced dash displays or monitoring systems
-
Forklifts designed to operate with electronically-controlled attachments
-
Systems with multiple electronic control units
Important Notes for Replacement/Repair
-
Critical Function:Â This is not a motor controller. It is a low-voltage power supply. Without it, the forklift will not function.
-
Amperage Code is Critical: The #3 amperage code must be matched. Installing a lower-rated converter (e.g., #1 or #2) could cause it to overload and fail, leading to system shutdown.
-
Exact Replacement:Â The part number (8033336) and amperage code (#3) must be matched for a guaranteed compatible replacement.
-
Diagnosis:Â Failure symptoms include:
-
Complete loss of power (no dash lights, no response to key switch)
-
Intermittent operation or resets
-
Diagnostic trouble codes related to control unit communication or sensor faults.
-
-
Installation: This is typically a plug-and-play component, but it is essential to disconnect the main battery power before installation to prevent short circuits.