Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile machinery. It is a small vehicle that has attachments on the front which allow it to move and lift various loads. Forklifts are common features inside factories and warehouses. A forklift driver needs to obtain special training, especially since these equipment operate on rear-wheel drive and this could be very 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 continually shifting and this results in the machinery being unstable quite often.
Parts
The lift truck operator will sit inside the area known as the "cat." Its an area protected by metal bars which stretch overhead like a roof. On the front of the equipment, 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 great idea to check the internet and the local area phone book when looking for remanufactured forklift components and aftermarket forklift parts information. Many places offer various support products, lift truck components and forklift accessories.
Structural Components
The top portion of a forklift is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the portion which separates the cabin from the load. A counterweight is located at the back of the forklift and is installed there with a purpose to keep the machinery from falling over.
The forks and Apron
Usually, the load apron is responsible for keeping the cargo in place while the forks, or metal arms, cradle the load. The tines can be tilted in order to balance the cargo. This is accomplished using the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm which powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The guard of the load apron extends well above 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 internal engine on the forklift allows power to be sent to the wheels of the machinery. This is what makes the forklift move. The wheels have brakes installed so as to allow the driver the chance to stop or slow down the machinery as required.
Controls
The lift is operated using hoist controls which resemble a bunch of stick-shaped levers. The lift truck is driven by utilizing the steering wheel to turn, similar to a car or truck.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located inside the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight restrictions for each and every particular kind of forklift.