Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile equipment. It is a small vehicle that has attachments on the front that enable it to move and lift a variety of loads. Forklifts are common features in factories and warehouses. A forklift operator must acquire special training, especially because these kinds of machinery work on rear-wheel drive and this could be difficult to get used to until one is familiar with it. As the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is continually shifting and this results in the equipment being unstable quite often.
Parts
Normally, a lift truck driver usually sits in an area known as the "cat." This particular area offers metal protection that stretches overhead like a roof. On the front of the machinery, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism that lowers and raises the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Components
When looking for information on lift truck components and aftermarket forklift parts, it is a great idea to check out the Internet or your local phone book. A lot of places provide a full variety of support products, forklift parts and forklift accessories.
Structural Components
The top part of a lift truck is known as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part which separates the cabin from the load. A counterweight is located at the rear of the forklift and is installed there in order to keep the machinery from falling over.
The forks and Apron
The load apron is usually responsible for keeping the cargo positioned correctly on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the load. The forks are capable to be tilted in order to balance the load. This is accomplished using the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm 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 as the blades carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklifts IC engine enables the power to be sent to the equipment wheels, providing the lift truck with movement. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the operator the chance to stop or slow down the machine as needed.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated with 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
The specific safety rating plate is bolted inside of the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight restrictions for every specific forklift.