Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile equipment. It is a small vehicle that has attachments on the front that allow it to lift and move various loads. Forklifts are common features in factories and warehouses. A forklift driver must acquire special training, specially since these machines work on rear-wheel drive and this could be difficult to get used to until one is familiar with it. Since the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is always shifting and this results in the equipment being frequently unstable.
Parts
Normally, a lift truck operator generally sits in an area known as the "cat." This area offers metal protection which stretches overhead like a roof. On the front of the machine, the mast is situated. The mast is the mechanism which raises and lowers the load with the use of hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Components
It is always a good idea to check the World Wide Web and the local area phone directory when looking for remanufactured forklift parts and aftermarket forklift components information. Numerous places provide various support products, forklift parts and lift truck accessories.
Structural Parts
The top part of a lift truck is known as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the portion which separates the cabin from the load. A counterweight is located at the rear of the forklift and is installed there with a purpose to keep the machine from falling over.
The blades and Apron
The load apron is typically responsible for keeping the cargo positioned well on the metal arms, or forks, cradle the cargo. The forks can be tilted in an effort to balance the load. This is done utilizing the hydraulic hoist arm and the tilting ram that powers the upward movement of the fork.
The Lift Structure
The guard of the load apron extends well above the apron. It functions to keep the load stable as 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 machinery. This is what moves the forklift. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the operator the chance to slow down or stop the machinery as required.
Controls
The lift is operated via hoist controls which resemble a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The forklift is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, like 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 particular type of forklift.