Forklift Basics
A forklift is an all-around machinery. It is a small vehicle which has attachments on the front which enable it to lift and move a variety of loads. Forklifts are common features in warehouses and factories. The operator of a forklift should obtain special training, specially because these kinds of equipment work on rear-wheel drive and this could 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 unstable quite often.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck operator generally sits in an area known as the "cat." This particular area provides metal protection which stretches overhead similar to 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 Parts
When searching for information on forklift components and aftermarket forklift parts, it is a good idea to check out the Internet or your local phone directory. A lot of places provide various forklift accessories, support products and forklift parts.
Structural Components
The top part of a lift truck is referred to as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part that 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 equipment 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 cargo. The blades can be tilted with a purpose to balance the load. This is done with the hydraulic hoist arm and the tilting ram which 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 load stable when 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 machine. This is what moves the forklift. The wheels have brakes installed so as to enable the operator the chance to slow down or stop the machinery as needed.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated utilizing hoist controls which are located in the cat. 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 limitations for every particular type of forklift.