Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile equipment. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which allow it to lift and move various loads. Forklifts are common features in warehouses and factories. A forklift driver has to acquire special training, especially since these kinds of equipment operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be difficult to get used to until one is familiar with it. Because the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is continually shifting and this results in the machine being unstable quite often.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck driver usually sits in an area known as the "cat." This particular area provides metal protection that stretches overhead like a roof. On the front of the equipment, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism which raises and lowers the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
It is always a good idea to check the World Wide Web and the local area phone book when looking for remanufactured forklift parts and aftermarket forklift components information. Numerous places provide a complete variety of forklift accessories, support products and forklift components.
Structural Components
The top portion of a forklift is known as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part which separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is located at the forklift's back and is installed there that allows you to keep the machinery from falling over.
The blades and Apron
The load apron is commonly responsible for keeping the load positioned well on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the load. The forks can be tilted in an effort to balance the load. This is done utilizing the hydraulic hoist arm and the tilting ram which powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The load apron guard extends above the apron. It works to keep the load stable when the tines carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklift's internal engine allows power to be sent to the wheels of the machine. This is what makes the forklift move. The wheels have brakes installed in order to enable the operator the chance to slow down or stop the equipment as needed.
Controls
The lift is operated using hoist controls which resemble a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The forklift is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, like a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight restrictions for each specific type of forklift.