Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile machinery. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which allow it to move and lift a variety of loads. Forklifts are common features inside warehouses and factories. The operator of a forklift must acquire special training, specially since these machines work on rear-wheel drive and this can be very 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 continually shifting and this results in the equipment being unstable quite often.
Parts
The lift truck driver will sit in the area called the "cat." Its an area protected by metal bars that stretch 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 Components
When searching for information about forklift parts and aftermarket lift truck parts, it is a great idea to check out the Internet or your local phone directory. Lots of places offer various support products, forklift components and forklift accessories.
Structural Parts
The top portion of a forklift is referred to 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 in order to keep the equipment from falling over.
The forks and Apron
The load apron is commonly responsible for keeping the cargo positioned well on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the cargo. The tines can be tilted in order to balance the load. This is done utilizing the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm that powers the upward movement of the fork.
The Lift Structure
The load apron guard extends over the apron. It works to keep the cargo stable when the forks carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklifts internal combustion engine enables the power to be sent to the equipment wheels, providing the forklift with movement. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the operator the chance to stop or slow down the machinery as required.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated with hoist controls that are located inside the cat. The lift truck is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
The specific safety rating plate is bolted in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight restrictions for every particular type of forklift.