Forklift Basics
A forklift is an all-around equipment. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which enable it to lift and move various loads. Forklifts are common features in warehouses and factories. A forklift driver should obtain special training, especially since these machinery work on rear-wheel drive and this could be hard to get used to until one is familiar with it. Since the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is continually shifting and this results in the machine being frequently unstable.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck driver generally sits in an area known as the "cat." This particular area provides metal protection which stretches overhead similar to a roof. On the front of the machinery, the mast is situated. The mast is the mechanism that lowers and raises the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
It is always a good idea to check the internet and the local area phone directory when searching for remanufactured forklift parts and aftermarket forklift parts information. Many places provide various forklift accessories, support products and forklift components.
Structural Components
The top portion of a lift truck is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part that separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is located at the rear of the forklift and is installed there in an effort to keep the machine from falling over.
The forks and Apron
Typically, the load apron is responsible for keeping the load positioned while the forks, or metal arms, support the cargo. The blades could be tilted in order to balance the cargo. This is accomplished utilizing the hydraulic hoist arm and the tilting ram that powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The guard of the load apron extends well over the apron. It works to keep the load balanced when the forks carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The internal engine on the forklift allows power to be sent to the wheels of the equipment. This is what moves the forklift. The wheels have brakes installed so as to enable the driver the chance to slow down or stop the machine as needed.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated using hoist controls which are located in the cat. The forklift is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a car or truck.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is situated in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for each particular forklift.