Forklift Basics
Forklifts are very versatile machinery. The machines are usually small vehicles with numerous attachments which allow it to move and lift loads. Factories and warehouses all around the world will use forklifts. The operator of a forklift needs to obtain special training, specially because these machinery function 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 unstable quite often.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck driver generally sits in an area referred to as the "cat." This area offers metal protection which stretches overhead similar to a roof. On the front of the machinery, the mast is situated. The mast is the mechanism which lowers and raises the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
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 parts information. Many places provide a complete variety of support products, lift truck components and lift truck accessories.
Structural Components
The overhead guard is part of the top portion of the forklift, whereas the foot guard separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is located at the forklift's back and is installed there in an effort to keep the machine from falling over.
The blades and Apron
The load apron is usually responsible for keeping the load positioned correctly on the forks, or metal arms, cradle the load. The forks can be tilted in an effort to balance the load. This is done with 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 load stable when the blades carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklifts IC engine allows the power to be sent to the machinery wheels, providing the lift truck with movement. The wheels have brakes installed so as to enable the driver the chance to slow down or stop the machinery as needed.
Controls
The lift is operated via hoist controls which look like a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The forklift is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located inside the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for every particular kind of forklift.