Forklift Basics
A forklift is an all-around machinery. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which allow it to lift and move various loads. Forklifts are common features in warehouses and factories. The operator of a forklift has to acquire special training, specially since these machines operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be really 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 unstable quite often.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck operator usually sits in an area referred to as the "cat." This particular area offers metal protection that stretches overhead similar to a roof. On the front of the machine, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism that raises and lowers the load with the use of hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
It is always a great idea to check the internet and the local area phone directory when looking for remanufactured forklift parts and aftermarket forklift components information. Lots of places provide various forklift accessories, support products and forklift parts.
Structural Components
The top portion of a lift truck is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the portion that separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is situated at the rear of the forklift and is installed there in order to keep the machine from falling over.
The blades and Apron
The load apron is commonly responsible for keeping the cargo positioned well on the metal arms, or forks, cradle the cargo. The blades can be tilted in an effort to balance the cargo. This is accomplished 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 as the forks 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 makes the forklift move. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the operator the chance to slow down or stop the equipment as needed.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated with hoist controls which are located in the cat. The lift truck is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is situated inside the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for every particular forklift.