Forklift Basics
A forklift is an all-around equipment. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which enable it to move and lift various loads. Forklifts are common features inside factories and warehouses. The driver of a forklift needs to obtain special training, specially because these kinds of equipment work on rear-wheel drive and this can be hard to get used to until one is familiar with it. As the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is always shifting and this results in the machine being frequently unstable.
Parts
The lift truck operator will sit inside the area known as the "cat." Its an area protected by metal bars that stretch overhead similar to a roof. On the front of the equipment, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism that raises and lowers the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
When looking for information about lift truck components and aftermarket lift truck components, it is a great idea to check out the Internet or your local phone book. Numerous places provide various forklift components, forklift accessories and support products.
Structural Parts
The top portion of a forklift is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the portion which separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is located at the rear of the forklift and is installed there in order to keep the equipment from falling over.
The tines and Apron
The load apron is commonly responsible for keeping the cargo positioned well on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the cargo. The forks are capable to be tilted in an effort to balance the cargo. This is done utilizing the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm which powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The load apron guard extends over the apron. It works to keep the cargo balanced when the forks 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 forklift with movement. The wheels have brakes installed in order to enable the operator the chance to slow down or stop the machinery as needed.
Controls
The lift is operated using hoist controls which resemble a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The lift truck 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 specific forklift.