Trying to pick out the right Fluke digital multimeter

[Sanny81]

Will be used mainly to work on electric forklifts with 24, 36 and 48 volt batteries....there are so many different Fluke models I have no idea which ones to even start to consider.

I am going to ask some of the guys at work which ones they recommend but I'd like to get a head start and at least research on my own which options are best. I guess I'm looking for something that will fill my immediate needs yet have some room to "grow" options wise if that makes sense...thanks!

 

[fm2176]

I worked on electric fork lifts 14 years ago, from simple electric pallet jacks to the largest turret stock pickers. My Fluke 87 did a great job, though I did invest in a Fluke clamp-on ammeter later (forget the model).

 

[bsaint]

I had a fluke 179 for working on machine tools for the longest time. Used a regular 9v battery. But the small fluke 15(b) will prob work too unless you do a lot with capacitors.

 

[Sanny81]

What are the differences between the 87 and 179? I actually came across a Crown forklift catalog that lists different tools they sell/recommend and both of those Fluke models were listed.

 

[mrborohachi]

http://en-us.fluke.com/training/partnerships/education-program-tool-discounts.html

If you happen to know anyone in college

 

[bsaint]

What are the differences between the 87 and 179? I actually came across a Crown forklift catalog that lists different tools they sell/recommend and both of those Fluke models were listed.

For the most part it will be accuracy and minimum value readings for voltage/current/resistance etc.

The 87V can measure diodes. For forklift that might be important depending on how you rectify AC. But to be honest 87v is really too much meter for most maintenance people. How many guys are trying to read microvoltages? At that point I would be on my scopemeter.

87V also gives more accurate voltage readings for frequency voltage readings. IE, if I measure the voltage coming off my VFD with the 179, it might read 250v. But with my 28-II (same as 87v with ip67 enclosure) it'll read 230v because of frequency filtering. But to me it doesn't matter because I would just be looking for anything close to my nominal voltage. So you have decide if its worth the extra money for the additional accuracy if that accuracy is important or not.

http://en-us.fluke.com/products/digital-multimeters/fluke-179-digital-multimeter.html#techspecs

http://en-us.fluke.com/products/digital-multimeters/fluke-87v-digital-multimeter.html#techspecs

Ive heard the inputs are isolated differently on the 87. Its more like my 289 where the AC side is inductance coupled.

Note both have lifetime warranties.

 

[bsaint]

I only replaced my 179 because I worked on large machine tools and the 179 couldn't take the 3 meter drop. I gave m 179 to my brother who uses it now to build and troubleshoot his computerized beer brewing system.

 

[mshell56118]

I have the 233 which is the remote head unit. i can hook it up then take display off and monitor while turning switches on and off
i also have the clamp on amp meter that does the same

 

[bw77]

What are the differences between the 87 and 179? I actually came across a Crown forklift catalog that lists different tools they sell/recommend and both of those Fluke models were listed.

179 measures milli-amps in series, but not micro-amps. 87V does both.
Important difference for hvac, maybe not for forklifts.

 

[scissorman]

I would recommend a Fluke 375 amp clamp meter. It will do everything you need and then more.

 

[ezrollin]

Brand name can be a personal choice but if you really want an all round device get one that has ac / dc capability , ohms with a signal for checking continuity and a clamp on amp feature. other you will have to buy separate meters.

 

[Jlarson]

Have a look at this comparison guide for Fluke DMM's
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCgQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.testequity.com%2Fdocuments%2Fpdf%2FFluke-DMM-selection-guide.pdf&ei=4xU9VY7-EobQsAWeooG4Cw&usg=AFQjCNGrJg7ojh3k0xpzL8WbwTAzVHwrMw

And this one for Fluke clamp meters
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCUQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsupport.fluke.com%2Ffind-sales%2FDownload%2FAsset%2F3363537_6115_ENG_A_W.PDF&ei=XhY9VYuLHMrpsAXnq4HIBw&usg=AFQjCNFaFPTaVpY_vYtpLnPGhP1bpEdq8A

 

[brook41]

I agree on the Fluke 375 or a 374 if you want to save yourself $50.

 

[JoeFin]

IF you have to deal with Factory Service Departments or Engineers - then any thing less then a Fluke 87 they will try to claim your not reading the measurement correctly. Sorry - not my call - just my experience

Given the fact just about ALL Electric Forklifts are using fancy New SCR Drive Controls I would highly recommend save yourself some grief and go with the 87 first off.

 

[jmm]

I have the 233 which is the remote head unit. i can hook it up then take display off and monitor while turning switches on and off
i also have the clamp on amp meter that does the same

Here's another vote for the 233. You'll need an amp clamp if you do much amp testing too.

 

[dovco]

Have 179, 87, and 36. Work on forklifts sometimes but not electric, Diesel and Propane. Use test light more than meter.

 

[redmondjp]

Shoot, just a basic Fluke 23 or 77 (usually under $100 on Craigslist) will serve you just fine. I have a bunch of higher-end Flukes that I have picked up over the past 25 years, and my go-to daily meter is the very first 23 that I bought new while in college back in 1988. Still working perfectly.