Forklift Basics
A forklift is a versatile equipment. It is a small vehicle that has attachments on the front that enable it to move and lift various loads. Forklifts are common features in factories and warehouses. A forklift driver should obtain special training, particularly because these machines operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be 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 machinery being unstable quite often.
Parts
The forklift operator would sit in the area known as the "cat." Its an area protected by metal bars that stretch overhead like a roof. On the front of the equipment, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism which lowers and raises the load with the use of hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Components
When searching for information on lift truck parts and aftermarket lift truck components, it is a good idea to check out the Internet or your local phone directory. Lots of places provide various forklift parts, forklift accessories and support products.
Structural Components
The top portion of a lift truck 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 forklift's back and is installed there with a purpose to keep the machinery from falling over.
The blades and Apron
The load apron is commonly responsible for keeping the cargo 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 accomplished using the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm that 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 as the forks carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The forklifts IC engine allows the power to be sent to the equipment wheels, providing the forklift with movement. The wheels have brakes installed in order to enable the driver the chance to stop or slow down the machine as required.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated utilizing hoist controls that are located in the cat. The lift truck is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, like a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
The specific safety rating plate is bolted inside of the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for each particular kind of forklift.