Forklift Basics
Forklifts are really handy machinery. The machines are usually small vehicles with numerous attachments which allow it to move and lift loads. Warehouses and factories all over the world will use forklifts. A forklift driver has to acquire special training, especially since these types of machinery operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be really hard 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 machine being somewhat unstable.
Parts
Typically, a forklift driver generally sits in an area referred to as the "cat." This particular area provides metal protection which 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 with the use of hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Components
It is always a good idea to check the internet and the local area phone directory when searching for remanufactured forklift components and aftermarket forklift parts information. Numerous places provide a full variety of forklift parts, forklift accessories and support products.
Structural Parts
The top portion of a lift truck is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part which separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is situated at the back of the forklift and is installed there in an effort to keep the machinery from falling over.
The tines and Apron
The load apron is typically responsible for keeping the cargo positioned well on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the cargo. The tines could be tilted in order to balance the cargo. This is accomplished with the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm that powers the upward movement of the fork.
The Lift Structure
The guard of the load apron extends well over the apron. It works to keep the cargo stable when the blades carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklift's internal engine enables power to be sent to the wheels of the equipment. This is what moves the forklift. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the driver the chance to stop or slow down the machine as needed.
Controls
The lift is operated using hoist controls which look like a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The lift truck is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a car or truck.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for every specific type of forklift.