Forklift Basics
Forklifts are very handy machinery. The machinery are normally small vehicles with many attachments which allow it to lift and move loads. Factories and warehouses all over the world will utilize forklifts. The driver of a forklift needs to obtain special training, specially because these kinds of equipment operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be very difficult 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 machinery being unstable quite often.
Parts
Typically, a lift truck driver usually sits in an area known as the "cat." This particular 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 with the use of hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
When looking for information about forklift components and aftermarket forklift parts, it is a great idea to check out the World Wide Web or your local phone directory. Many places provide a full range of forklift accessories, support products and forklift parts.
Structural Components
The top portion of a forklift is known as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the part which separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is located at the back of the forklift and is installed there in an effort to keep the equipment from falling over.
The forks and Apron
Typically, the load apron is responsible for keeping the load positioned whilst the forks, or metal arms, support the load. The tines could be tilted with a purpose to balance the cargo. This is done utilizing 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 load stable 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 in order to allow the operator 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 using the steering wheel to turn, like a car or truck.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for each particular forklift.