Anantabudhi Forklift

How to Buy Fork Lift Parts

2009-09-01T05:04:00.001-07:00

How to Buy Fork Lift Parts

By Jackson P.

All fork lifts have certain common components. These fork lift parts are vital to the performance and operation of the equipment. Usually fork lift parts are purchased from different sources. Both new and used parts are available. Also there are a number of different of manufacturers exclusively for forklift parts. A company that manufactures fork lifts also produces replacement parts.

The most important component of the fork lift is of course the forks. Without quality forks, the fork lift may not be able to transport the materials quite efficiently. The other important part of a fork lift is the brakes. Brake shoes and break drums are among the most commonly purchased fork lift brake parts.

Fork lift transmissions are vital to the machine's operation. Fork lifts can use either manual or automatic transmissions. Many fork lift parts dealers have both new and used transmissions for sale.

The Roll Clamps is also another important part of a fork lift. There are various models of roll clamps, which are available to handle all types and sizes of paper rolls including newsprint, Kraft paper and tissue and coated papers.

The Carton Clamps is another important attachment for handling multiple unpalletized products such as appliances, furniture, and cartooned, canned or frozen goods.

The Rotator is also one of the most important fork lift parts. Some fork lifts are fitted with an attachment that allows the tines to be rotated. Many fork lift parts dealers offer extensive warranties on their products. Most forklift parts of every model and make are available in the market so a replacement for a part of a particular make orAn essential piece of equipment in lifting and transporting heavy materials, fork lifts are powerful trucks which are intended for use in construction sites and warehouses. Continuing development and expanded use of the fork lift over the years has resulted in different fork lift parts being available as add-ons to the fork lift.

A typical fork lift contains roll clamps, carton clamps and rotators as standard fork lift parts. Roll clamps are attachments (they can be mechanical or hydraulic), which squeeze the item to be moved. Carton clamps are used to move products like cartons, boxes and bales. Rotators assist in the handling of skids that may have become excessively tilted and other specialty material handling needs.

Fork lift parts chosen judiciously as add-ons can really add tremendous value to a fork lift. In San Jose, California, there are many good establishments where you can buy those parts. One of these is San Jose Fork lift, which opened in 1966. Other vendors where you can buy or rent fork lift parts in San Jose, California are Sunrise Fork lift, Bay Area Fork Lift and Pro-Lift. You need not look for fork lift parts outside the city, as there are plenty in San Jose itself.

Keeping in mind that fork lifts are actually mini-trucks, you also have to replace the tires in your bought or rented forklift from time to time. Generally, all the fork lift part-selling establishments have a stock of new fork lift tires too. This makes sense if the fork lift parts get spoilt prematurely.

Forklift Truck-Mounted

2009-08-09T23:36:00.001-07:00

Forklift Truck-Mounted

The forklift truck-mounted concept has been around since the 1970's. Up until the mid 1980’s, this type of forklift was used primarily in the turf and sod industry. As these forklifts began to gain greater acceptance in this industry, they also gained widespread visibility.

Increased truck productivity, faster vehicle turnaround time, improved delivery scheduling, and increased customer satisfaction - factors which lead towards increased profitability - are all attainable.

The forklift truck-mounted can be adapted and fitted with an array of attachments which makes it very suitable for use in a wide range of material handling applications, such as:

Construction/Building Supply Industry

All terrain capability makes deliveries to rough muddy sites possible and product can be off-loaded exactly where needed
Full free lift capability enables the forklift truck-mounted to work in areas with low ceiling heights
A range of attachments including load back rests, block clamps, and rotators can be fitted

Agriculture/Horticulture Industry

All terrain capability makes deliveries to rough muddy sites possible and product can be off-loaded exactly where needed
High flotation tires enables the forklift truck-mounted to traverse lawns and leave less noticeable tracks
Full free lift capability enables the forklift truck-mounted to work in areas with low ceiling heights
A range of attachments including load back rests, push offs for lawn turf, and spikes for straw can be fitted

Poultry Industry

All wheel drive and traction control capability enables it to cope with even the deepest litter and most slippery of surfaces
Full free lift capability enables the forklift truck-mounted to work in areas with low ceiling heights

Utilities Industry

All terrain capability makes deliveries to rough muddy sites possible and product can be off-loaded exactly where needed
Full free lift capability enables the forklift truck-mounted to work in areas with low ceiling heights
A range of attachments can be fitted to handle cable drums, poles, etc.

Food and Beverage Industry

One or three wheel drive machines available
Light and compact - enables the forklift truck-mounted to traverse over floors of supermarkets, store rooms, and warehouses without damaging their surfaces
White wall tires available - prevents streaking of supermarket floors, store rooms, and warehouses
Full free lift capability enables the forklift truck-mounted to work in areas with low ceiling heights

Not all forklift truck-mounted should be considered equal. The forklift truck-mounted with its patented telescopic boom configuration is more versatile and provides more capability than conventional masted forklift truck-mounted.

The forklift truck-mounted is truly a versatile machine. With single and all wheel drive models available and carrying capacities 3000 kg (6600 lb), there is a forklift truck-mounted to suit your specific needs.

The Benefits of a Diesel Forklift

2009-07-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of a Diesel Forklift

By F Jones

Forklifts are very useful for heavy work and this is the reason why people are purchasing forklifts to make their work easy for them. You would find that there are diesel forklift that are used to complete heavy work. It has been seen that people go for buying diesel powered forklift rather than any other forklifts that are found in the stores. But, now the question arises what are the benefits of a diesel forklift.

Diesel forklifts are stronger

According to some users, diesel forklift is very strong as compared to those of others. There are users who are of the opinions that there is some diesel forklift that does not give off too much fumes like those of gas powered ones. There are forklifts that are not only used in outdoors but also in indoors as well. But, most of the forklifts truck is used in warehouses. It has been known that diesel forklift has the highest lifting capacity. This is the reason why people go for purchasing it. As you know that it might cost you a lot when you go for buying forklifts for you, so you need to decide the type of work you are having. It is ideal to go for a used forklift if you wish to save your money but you need to look at the conditions of the forklift before you go for purchasing it.

Good speed

It is seen that diesel forklift has good speed as compared to other forklifts. But, it is important that you go for buying diesel forklift from a good forklift dealer to get the best one for you. It is also seen that the lifespan of diesel forklift is very long.

With the advancement of technology, there are many different types of diesel forklift that have come up in the market. It also comes with different power ranges as well. If you need it for heavy work then it is very important that you go for the high-powered ones for your use. So, do try to have a good look when you go for buying either a new or a used diesel forklift for you. Make sure you get the right one for you depending on your budget as well as your requirement.

Electric Forklifts

2009-07-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

Electric Forklifts

By Shaun Graham

Large, heavy lead acid batteries power the electric forklift. Batteries or fuels such as propane, diesel, or gas can power forklifts. Electric forklifts have a few advantages when compared to the other types; some of these advantages include fuel emissions, lifespan and maintenance. This article will discuss some of the advantages of choosing electric forklifts over other types.

Emissions

One of the first advantages of electric forklifts is emission. Unlike other types, these forklifts generate no emissions. Where a forklift is being operated primarily indoors the fact that these forklifts produce no emissions can be a vital deciding factor, although propane-fueled forklifts can operate inside, the area will need very good ventilation to prevent a problem.

Fuel

Another advantage of electric forklifts is the fuel. These forklifts are much cheaper to operate than other types of forklifts.

Noise

Electric forklifts are powered by a battery and will, therefore, produce much lower levels of noise. This is a great benefit once again if you plan to use the forklift primarily indoors.

Lifespan

They have fewer moving parts than forklifts powered by other fuels and so have a much better lifespan. In addition to their longer lifespan, these forklifts are easier to maintain.

Electric forklifts have a higher initial cost. They can cost 20 - 40% more than other forklifts. Obviously in a production environment this means that a spare battery to use whilst the other is charging will be needed, if the forklift truck is need for 2 or 3 shifts. You will also need a battery charging station, which should be kept in dry, ventilated and temperature-controlled location.

Baker Forklift

2009-06-11T09:45:00.001-07:00

Baker Forklift

From the smallest bracket to the largest mast our services and repairs include: design, manufacture, repair and test: forks, forklifts, stacker trucks, guards, masts, carriages, attachments, lift trucks and general fabrications.

Our bespoke and standard range of forklift attachments are designed using knowledge gained from 25 years of repairing similar equipment.

BFS are the UK distributor/stockiest for Quality Forks. We supply all types of forks to suit forklifts, attachments, plant etc.

Quality: We are very proud that many of our customers (including well known household names) have 20-year-old BFS attachments, still in operation today.

Our services and products are available throughout the UK and we offer a nationwide collection and delivery service.

Drum Handling Equipment

2009-06-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

Drum Handling Equipment

By Don Goodwin

The basic categories for drum handling equipment are dollies, cradles, lifters, carriers, and dumpers. For drum storage there are racks, cradle systems, and drum pallets. Drum dollies can be in a style very much like standard dollies, but designed to hold the round shape of drums. The drum sits in the drum dolly in an upright position, and come in single and two drum models. Similar to this style of dolly is a drum cradle. The drum cradle looks somewhat like a wheelbarrow without the bucket. The drum sits horizontal on the cradle then it is lifted and pushed by the handles. The drum cradles are a great option if you want to be able to pour from the drum as well as move it with one piece of equipment.

Drum lifters and drum carriers come in many different designs to fit specific needs of the user. There is drum-handling equipment designed specifically for use with a forklift. These style drum lifters usually lift the drum in one of two fashions. One works like a clamp, when the forklift drives up and places the drum between the lifter clamps they grab the drum to be moved. Another style has a clamp that grabs the top of the drum lid and a support at the bottom to keep the drum upright. Other drum lifters work similar to a pallet truck, except instead of forks it is made with a drum clamp for moving the drums.

Drum Dumpers can be mobile or stationary units. Placing a drum in the “U” shaped chute and clamped in place uses a drum dumper. An operator uses a hand control pendant to have the dumper lift and tilt the drum.

When it comes to drum storage there are drum racks, drum cradle systems, and drum pallets. Drum racks are basic metal frames that are curved to old the shape of a drum turned horizontally. Drum cradle systems are for the user that wants to store drums and be able to get the contents while in storage.

Drum pallets can come in styles that are a simple plastic tray, to models that have spill containment capabilities. The main things to keep in mind when trying to choose any type of drum handling equipment is the types of drum you will be using (size, metal, fiber, plastic) how often you will be using the equipment.

Clark Forklift Dealers

2009-05-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

Clark Forklift Dealers

Our "Best in Class" dealer network for North America includes 173 locations in the United States, 32 locations in Canada and 11 locations in Mexico.

These full service dealerships feature well stocked parts departments, new equipment inventory, a selection of pre-owned units, factory trained service technicians and are connected to the CLARK Parts PRO technical documentation parts and service system 24 hours a day. With a combined rental fleets of over 8,000 short term rental units, over 8,000 long term rental units, over 1,500 service technicians, and over 300 salesmen on the street, the CLARK Team is well positioned for today and the future.

CLARK places a heavy emphasis on training and host’s regular training classes at both its Training Center in Lexington, KY and at dealer locations. CLARK works closely with Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA), the Industrial Truck Association (ITA) and OSHA to ensure that our dealers are current and compliant with technology and industry safety regulations.

CLARK forklift dealers are active supporters of numerous charities and worthwhile causes.

Taylor Forklift

2009-05-21T00:43:00.000-07:00

Taylor Forklift

Taylor Machine Works line of heavy-duty forklift trucks, container handlers, and specialty machines, continues to lead the industry due to our emphasis on ruggedness, reliability and support. For over 80 years now, Taylor has been bringing their credo of faith, vision and work to the world's users of Heavy-duty lift machinery.

We at Taylor believe that a satisfied customer is one that receives the full range of the user experience. Our products are first designed and built to standards that meet only the toughest of business conditions. We design in only the best and strongest available materials and vendor items so as to make sure that our machines will operate day after day, year after year.

Finally, the industry knows that a Taylor's reputation is the best available anywhere. That is why our machines remain at the top of the list in the resale market. While we may not be the lowest priced machines available, customers know that new or used, a Taylor is the best machine built.

We are committed to providing you with the best equipment, the best after sales-support, and the best overall owning experience available. View our machines here and contact us thereafter with any questions or need you may have. We'll make sure that you too become a most satisfied customer of ours!

TCM Forklift

2009-05-17T10:14:00.001-07:00

TCM Forklift

TCM Corporation is a global corporation headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with well over $1.2 billion in consolidated annual sales. The primary business of the corporation is manufacturing and marketing various types of material handling equipment and systems. The four pillars of the company are industrial vehicles (forklift trucks), construction machinery and systems, large-scale material and container handling systems, and support for those products including parts, service, and training.

TCM America, Inc. NJ Division (Distribution)
TCM America, Inc. NJ Division in Swedesboro, New Jersey, distributes TCM forklift truck products and supports those products with parts and technical service through its dealer network.

TCM America, Inc. Head Office (Manufacturing)
TCM America, Inc. has a modern manufacturing plant located in Columbia, South Carolina. TCM forklift trucks are fabricated here ranging in capacities from 3,000 to 11,000 lbs.

TCM America, Inc. Houston Division (Distribution)

TCM America, Inc. Houston Division in Houston, Texas, distributes TCM forklift truck products and supports those products with parts and technical service through its dealer network.

Forklift License

2009-05-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Forklift License
By Christine OKelly

Driving and operating a forklift can be dangerous. Over 300,000 people each year are injured due to accidents that could have been avoided with proper training and safety measures.

Do You Need Special Training Or Certification?

Because of the dangers involved with operating heavy machinery, it is a violation of Federal Law for anyone to operate a lift truck without proper training and certification.

Specialized training will teach you how to operate the machinery, teach basic safety rules, show how everything works, and how to handle problems and emergencies.

Are There Age Requirements?

Operating a lift truck is not as easy as driving a car or pickup truck. There are special dangers associated with this type of equipment and as a result, the Fair Labor Standards Act prohibits forklift operation by workers under the age of 18 in non-agricultural jobs. On farms and at agricultural job-sites, operators must be at least 16 years of age.

Do You Need a Special License?

You do not need a specialized license -- as you would to drive commercially, drive a motorcycle, or become a chauffeur -- to operate a forklift on private property. If the operation of the forklift is restricted to your own private property or warehouse, there is no special license required. If your work requires driving on a public street in the loading or moving process, you may need limited licensing. A standard driver's license usually will suffice.

Do You Need Special Insurance?

The short answer is no, adding another piece of heavy machinery to your fleet should be covered under your general business liability coverage. However, you will want to talk to your insurance company to make sure your current coverage can accommodate the new liability and new expenses. Thankfully, any increase in premiums should be less than it would cost to insure a new car or take out a new plan. You may be able to get a reduction in your premium if you are able to show that your company takes safety serious and includes certification or safety training for your forklift operators. Forklifts are a valuable resource and needed piece of equipment it many businesses.

Different Forklift Attachment

2009-05-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

Different Forklift Attachment
By Thomas Morva

There are several types of forklift attachment that make it possible to use the forklift in a variety of different situations. Add-ons make it possible to carry metal drums filled with liquid, large rolls of carpet, or even people.

Drum handlers make it possible to safely transport liquid filled drums on a forklift. Most drum handlers slide onto the forks of the lift, allowing the operator to lift the drum handler by raising the forks off of the ground. Drum handlers hold the drums in one of two ways. The most common method is for the drum handler to clamp onto the rim of the drum in one or two places. This is perfect for keeping the drum upright and stable during transportation. Another way is to attach the drum by chaining the drum to a drum faucet from the cab of the forklift. This way, the forklift operator operating a chain pulley. has the option to control the speed at which the drum contents are dumped by

Carpet poles are long, sturdy poles that are used to carry roles of material such as carpet. Carpet poles are useful because they allow forklift operators to safely transport carpet rolls by putting a pole through the hollow center of the roll. The carpet is not able to roll around during movement as it would if it were merely sitting on the forks.

The forks of the lift slide into slots on the bottom of the man basket to provide stability. The forklift operator can then use the forks to lift the person in the man basket as high as the forks can rise. Most man baskets have a swing door and a safety chain to insure that the person doesn’t fall out. Man baskets are often safer than ladders or scaffolding.

Forklift attachment makes forklifts even more versatile. It is very important to use the forklift attachment in the manner for which they are intended to avoid costly equipment repairs or serious bodily injury.

Forklift Manuals

2009-05-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

Forklift Manuals

By Mike Strawbridge

Forklift manuals begin each shift with an inspection of the equipment before use. An air pressure gauge may be required to ensure the proper pressure, but excessive air loss can be noted visually. Some operations require a backup alarm, if so engage reverse gear and listen for the alarm. Still other operations require an alarm for all movement. Test the lights for proper illumination. If your forklift is equipped with brake lights or signal lights, test them as well.

Check the battery to ensure it is secure. Check the voltmeter on the instrument cluster if so equipped to ensure the battery voltage is correct. In some operations, you may also check the fluid level in the battery as well.

Test the controller for proper operation and release.

Check for proper lubrication of the lift assembly.

Test the brakes for pedal height and holding power. Visually check the steer axle to make sure there are no excessively worn or loose parts

Operate all hydraulic controls and verify proper operation.

Check the fuel system for sufficient fuel level. Checks for leaks visually and be aware of any smells of leaking fuel.

Ensure that the forklift is clean and free of grease, oil, lint or paper dust.

Verify that all guards are in place and in proper working condition.

Ensure that there is no damage to the overhead cage and that the securing bolts are properly affixed.

Ensure that there are no coverings that would obscure vision of lifted loads.

Check the seat belt. Ensure that the latching mechanism works and securely hold the belt.

For propane powered lifts, ensure that the tank is secure in its mounting brackets. Remove the dipstick from the engine and verify that the engine oil level is correct.

Check the transmission fluid level and color. Note any unusual smell to the oil.

If your forklift is equipped with windshield wipers, verify their operation.

Check the fire extinguisher charge. Be sure to note any other defects that might impair the safe operation of the forklift.As always, the forklift operator is ultimately responsible for his own safety and for the safe operation of the vehicle. If any defects are noted in the inspection, then repairs must be arranged before the unit is put into operation. To insure that the forklift is not used, place a sign or tag in the unit indicating that repairs are needed before operation. Contact the appropriate persons responsible for repair.

Telescopic Forklift Trucks

2009-05-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Telescopic Forklift Trucks

By Mads X Jensen

It is a well-known fact in the warehousing industry that a telescopic forklift truck has the highest operating efficiency. These trucks have been in operation for some time and have been immensely successful in achieving their target of high density and highly economical utilization of warehouse space. These telescopic forklift trucks have been improved to a great extent when compared to the initial models.

There are various top companies across the globe that deal in these forklift trucks. Amongst the major brands, JCB telescopic forklift trucks are undoubtedly the best. Their efficient and very effective design makes sure that these trucks do the required task in the most economical way. Other major competitors in the market are the Manitou telescopic forklift trucks and the forklift trucks that are manufactured by Toyota Industries in Japan. Besides the above mentioned, various other automation companies have ventured into the field of forklift trucks. Some of these companies are the KION group from Germany, the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries from Japan, and the Nissan motor company from Japan. It should be noted that a good telescopic forklift truck must essentially have a solid frame along with a good overhead guard. Both of these are extremely important to the proper functioning of the truck.

There extensive usage can be attributed to various factors including their ability to minimize the total warehousing cost. These trucks have also been known to help in the effective management of space. As a matter of fact, the entire space usage can be improved by approximately 21 percent by using caterpillar telescopic forklift trucks as compared to the regular counterbalance trucks.

Identify a Good Forklift Dealer

2009-04-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

Identify a Good New and Used Forklift Dealers the Easy Way

By Christine OKelly

Purchasing a new or used forklift from the right dealers will greatly determine your satisfaction with the machine as well as the entire buying and service experience. This requires you to examine more than the price each place charges for its forklifts. Here are some of the traits you will want to look for in order to find a provider and a machine you'll be happy with.

Experience

Regardless of whether you are interested in the newest forklifts on the market or a used forklift, you want to buy from a company and an individual that has experience. They know what options are available, which models and features to stay away from, and what your particular situation needs. This kind of knowledge is rarely taught; it requires genuine experience.

The same goes for maintenance and accessories. You need parts and help specific to the model of machine you have. Experienced providers know which parts will work best, the quirks associated with the equipment you work with, and what may be wrong when it breaks down.

Options And Services

When you own a new or used forklift, you want to start and end with the same provider if possible. Look for one that offers good sales, but also parts, accessories, and services. This benefits your business in several ways.

You build a relationship with the provider. The company knows it gets your business, and in return, you receive enhanced service because the provider knows your forklifts and needs. You may even receive preferred customer status, putting you in line for cost savings.

Speed And Customer Service

It doesn't matter how affordable the prices are, if the forklifts provider has poor customer service skills, or works extremely slow, it isn't going to help you. You need the provider to return calls, answer questions, and take the necessary steps to help find the information you need. You'll find it helpful if they are willing to take a step above and beyond when you really need it.

For any business, time translates into money and profits. When the jobs you have to do require the use of a new or used forklift, you don't want it broken down longer than need be. Find a dealer that understands this concept and works to get you the parts or deliver the machine you need as soon as they can.

Guarantees And Finances

A company needs to offer a decent pricing system. After all, the equipment and services provided need to be affordable for you. Lastly, if a company truly believes in its products and services, it needs to stand behind what it offers. Work with a provider that offers a guarantee and honors warranties for everything it provides for you.

Cat Lift Trucks

2009-04-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

Cat Lift Trucks

Located in Houston, Texas, the North American headquarters for Cat Lift Trucks encompasses more than 600,000 square feet of manufacturing space. The factory incorporates high-tech fabrication methods, sophisticated supply chain management technologies and advanced logistics to ensure the design, manufacture and delivery of the highest quality products. The Houston facility is also ISO 9001:2000 quality systems and ISO 14001:2004 environmental systems certified.

Supported by a reliable dealer and field support

network dedicated to continuous improvement, our products are manufactured with the highest quality to be the most reliable in the industry today. With sales and product support throughout the U.S., Canada and Latin America, Cat Lift Trucks delivers customer satisfaction from quality parts and training programs to financing and warranty facilitation. Cat Lift Trucks continues to raise the bar on material handling performance, providing optimum quality, reliability and customer service.

Crown Forklift

2009-04-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

Crown Forklift

Crown Equipment Corporation designs, manufactures, distributes, services and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. Since its entry into the material handling equipment industry in 1956, Crown has distinguished itself from competitors with exceptional product designs and a unique business approach based on vertical integration. When it says Crown on the outside, it's a Crown on the inside. Crown designs and manufactures 85 percent of its lift truck components, including key parts like motors, drive units, and electronic modules.

From our smallest hand pallet truck to our highest lifting turret truck, our goal is to always provide the user with the safest, most efficient and ergonomic lift truck possible to lower total cost of ownership and increase uptime. A strong and extensive global dealer network provides a wide variety of quality material handling equipment, storage solutions and support services. Our dedicated team of professionals will always put you first.

Reach Telescopic Forklift Trucks

2009-04-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

Deep Reach Telescopic Forklift Trucks Make Better Use Of Space

By Mike Spencer

Deep reach telescopic

forklift trucks are helping distribution centers to achieve much more economical and high-density use of warehouse space. Recent years have seen a rapid increase in the use of "reach" forklift trucks because rising warehousing costs dictated optimum use of space in both new buildings and additions.

Reach trucks, warehousemen learned, could work in much narrower aisles than conventional counterbalance trucks. Space use could be improved by up to 21 per cent with such equipment.

"Deep reach" trucks sometimes are described as double-deep because of their ability to place and retrieve pallets set one behind the other from a single aisle position. Recently added to the materials handling field is the "swing-reach" lift, or "turret" truck. The truck works on both sides of an aisle without turning and is used in conjunction with routine pallet storage.

Use of the "swing-reach"

forklift trucks is consistently doub1ing or even tripling the national averages for conventional fork truck movements per hour, some industrialists report.

Hundreds of deep reach and swing reach trucks are seen in hundreds more warehouses today, compared to five years ago.

The deep reach concept features the use of racks two

pallets deep - with one pallet stored behind the other so both from the same aisle position. As the first is removed, the second pallet becomes available.

Basically, the truck is a normal reach

forklift truck tractor unit fitted with a different telescopic mast and each mechanism geared to picking up and depositing two pallets deep into the racking.

One-third improves space use over the traditional reach truck, which moves in for only one

pallet off the rack. The approach, in a warehouse, could eliminate two aisles out of every five required in normal rack storage. Twelve racks can be put in somewhat less space than that which is normally required for 10.

Some warehouse veterans say swing reach telescopic

forklifts are the most productive fork truck innovation ever. Such equipment, they say, works in guided aisles, can travel at high speed and lift while traveling. Added performance advantages are semi-automatic horizontal positioning and completely automatic vertical stacking and placement.

In addition, swing reach installations are experiencing successful application of current wire guidance technology. Thus, fantastic gains are likely, with direct vehicle-computer communication becoming feasible. Inventories would be reduced as movement of swing reach trucks is optimized.

Forkift Forks

2009-04-14T02:14:00.000-07:00

Forklift Forks And Loading

By Brent A Bowlin

Under normal operating conditions, forks should be inspected daily and given a thorough inspection every six months. Operators should make visual inspection of forks during the pre-start-up check before their work begins. The check will give special attention to permanent distortions and cracks. At six months a thorough inspection of forks should be done. A trained individual, to check for any cracks, distortion, and excessive wear on the forks, should do this inspection. Forks may need inspections more often, depending on the use of the equipment.

The trained inspector at six months will check the fork blades for wear. Forks are constantly subjected to abrasion by concrete floors, steel shelving, etc. This abrasion can reduce the thickness of a fork until it cannot lift loads up to the designed capacity. The inspector will have a gauge to check for thickness. The inspector will also check for distortion. Forks can be bent out of shape. Depending on distortion, some forks can be straightened. Check for cracks in heel and hanger. Cracks may appear on forks where attachments are welded on or in the inside radius of the bend area. Periodic inspection using a magnetic particle or dye penetrate test can detect cracks. Contact your forklift supplier or the manufacturer for additional information.

Do not repair your own forks. No one but the fork manufacturer should undertake the repair of forks. Also, do not modify forks without consulting with your forklift supplier. The in-house repair or modification can drastically reduce the strength of the forks.

If replacement is needed, replace with good quality forks. When ordering forks, make sure you are getting high quality forks that will do your lifting jobs safely. Insist on forged forks or ones with an upset heel. In purchasing new forks use the proper forks. Custom-designed forks are designed to handle specific materials such as unusual lifting conditions, spark-free areas, high heat furnace areas, and special object lifting. The best place for information is the company that services or inspects the forklift or even the original manufacturer.

Forks are like forklifts; do not overload the forks. Operators should be aware of the capacity of the forklift and the capacity of the forks. Overloading may bend and weaken forks. Do not exceed the recommended load limit of your lift truck. Each lift truck has a maximum load limit. The load limit is shown on the data plate of the lift truck. This plate should also reflect the attachments that are used on the truck. The original chart is based on the standard forks supplied with the forklift. An eight hundred pound clamp attachment will change the lifting ability of the forklift from standard forks.

Position the load according to the recommended load center on the chart. The load limit of the lift truck decreases as the load center is raised. Do not add extra weight to counterbalance of the forklift. If the back tires come off the ground while lifting a load, the forklift is too small for that particular load. While moving loads, keep loads close to the front wheels to keep lift truck stable.

Forks are important pieces of equipment and should be visually inspected daily. The check should be part of the pre-start-up checklist; the forks should be thorough inspected at least every six months. Depending on the tasks required, the thorough inspection of the forks might need to be scheduled earlier.

Forklift Batteries Care and Maintenance

2009-04-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

Forklift Batteries Care and Maintenance

CHARGING:
Under normal circumstances, we recommend charging when a battery reaches 80% depth of discharge (near the “red zone” on most discharge meters), not before.

Most new batteries are designed to provide 1,500 charges “cycles” or more. If your application is light to medium duty, or sporadic, charge only when necessary rather than daily. It will spread the cycle life of the battery over a much longer period of time, and ensure you get the maximum number of productive years from your investment.

Select “weekend”, “equalize” or “weekly” charge (depending on your brand of charger) approx. every 5 to 10 cycles to keep the battery performing at peak efficiency. Failure to do so or selecting this option too often will harm the battery and shorten its effective life.

WATERING:

New batteries require water approx. every 10 charges for the first few years. Reconditioned batteries may require water every 5 charges.

On both new and reconditioned batteries, we recommend you check 2 or 3 pilot cells every 5 charges to see that the water level is just above the red perforated plastic Element Protector after charge (color varies depending on brand).

If low, add only enough water to cover the Element Protector by approx. ¼”. The additional space is necessary for expansion while gassing at the end of charge.

CLEANING:

If a battery ever overflows, take a few minutes to rinse it with water immediately afterwards (baking soda optional) to prevent corrosion on top of and beneath the battery. Use enough water to thoroughly dilute the spilled acid to the extent that it is not harmful to the environment.

The spilled acid is both highly conductive and corrosive. If not rinsed away, the conductivity can cause the battery to discharge itself, even while it is not in use, and generate addition heat during recharge.

Over time, acid left on top of the battery will form clumps of conductive white corrosion. If it is allowed to accumulate, it can dramatically shorten the life of the battery and make checking and adding water an unpleasant experience, which employees will tend to avoid, as well as cause obvious safety concerns.

Acid vapors escape during charge, and residue will develop around the vent cap area even under normal circumstances. We recommend that batteries be rinsed every spring and fall (or as needed), to remove the acid residue from the

battery.

NEVER:

Never over fill. It will cause overflow on the next charge. Acid loss shortens run time, generates more heat, and requires shop service to correct.

Never make a habit of giving short charges during lunch or break time. Each short charge constitutes a “cycle” and over time will significantly affect the performance and life of the battery. It also causes excess heat that will make the battery less efficient than not charging at all. It’s better to let a battery rest and cool during lunch or breaks.

Never interrupt a charge cycle if it is avoidable. It is recommended that once a charge cycle is initiated, it be allowed complete.

Never allow a battery to sit discharged for more than a few days to avoid “sulfation”. If it becomes necessary to store a battery for any period of time, charge it prior, and once every 3 to 6 months thereafter to avoid damage.

Never allow a battery to go completely dead (unusable). It will take over 72 hours of continuous charging to bring back to full charge, and may require shop service to restore full charge.
Never continue to use an overheating battery. If a battery ever radiates excessive heat during use or charging or emits a strong sulfur smell, discontinue use and call for service. You have a battery, charger or lift problem.

Never allow sparks or flame near a charging battery. Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas while charging, which could cause an explosion resulting in injury or death.

Never over discharge a battery:

Deep discharging will harm the battery and cause all of the forklift’s electrical components to run excessively hot. Significant lift truck damage can result, including complete motor failure, burned armatures and brushes, and burned or stuck contacts, which can quickly render the truck unsafe and unusable.

Deep discharging can easily increase the recharge time outside your charger’s range to recover, causing the battery to be only partially charged for the next day.

Most automatic chargers must sense a minimum battery voltage to activate and turn on. If the battery is below the threshold voltage, you will not be able to recharge the battery and may require a service call to manually start the charger.

If you don’t have a working discharge indicator, we recommend installing at least a simple “passive” discharge indicator. They are available for about $75.

Forklift Service

2009-04-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Preventative Maintenance for Forklifts

By Lori Steffen

You have a lot of money invested in your

forklift. In order to protect that investment, perform preventative maintenance on your forklift regularly. Whether you or someone in your shop is performing your forklift maintenance or if you are having an outside company perform the maintenance on your forklift, it is good to know the procedure to be sure that your forklift is properly maintained.

Start the

forklift and let it run briefly while you listen to the engine performance. Listen for any knocks or misses. Listen for any squealing caused by the belts. Then listen for any exhaust leaks. Drive the forklift forwards and backwards to check for any slips and to observe any possible wheel issues. Shut the engine off.

When performing preventative maintenance on your

forklift, first check the horn, gauges, safety warning devices, cab lights, outside lights, back-up lights, and overhead guard for proper operation. Check for any burnt out bulbs and if any device still does not work, check the wiring and make repairs.

Next in your forklift preventative maintenance procedure is to check the battery compartment. Clean the battery terminal, battery cables and battery connectors. Open every cell cap and check the cells for proper fill levels and fill with water as needed. Apply protectant on the connectors to prevent corrosion. Leave the battery cables disconnected.

Drain the oil from your forklift. Change the oil filter; change the hydraulic filter, transmission filter, fuel filters, and the air filter. Prior to installing the new filters, use a permanent marker to write the date on the new filter. Check all fluid levels and fill as necessary. Check the anti-freeze in the cooling system.

Visually inspect the drive axle when you are underneath the machine. If there is grease fitting, make sure to grease the drive axle.

Check the belts on the forklift engine. Check for cracks and frays on the belts.
Perform a visual check of the forklift’s exhaust system. Look for any cracks or holes in the exhaust system.

Look at the tires on the forklift for any cracks or signs of excessive wear. On an air filled tire, check the tread. Check the differential fluid.

Check the clutch pedal on your

forklift. Check the steering cylinder and the drag links. Check for any leaks or for any bends in the system.

Proceed to the hoist and look at the hydraulic lines for any leaks. If there are any leaks on the hydraulic system of your forklift, tighten the lines. If this does not correct the leaks, the fittings may need to be changed or an o-ring may need to be replaced.

While inspecting the hoist, look at the forks and mast to see if there are any visible cracks or chips. Look for any bowing or bends in the forks. Any of these should be noted on your checklist and flagged to the owner and operator as a potentially dangerous issue, which needs to be further addressed.

Lubricate all the fittings on your forklift. This would include the hoist mechanism and tie-rod ends.
Checking the wheel bearings is listed on preventative maintenance checklists. However, this is normally done when replacing the brakes on the forklift. Unless there is some indication during the initial driving check out of the forklift that there may be an issue with the wheel bearings, it is not recommended to check the wheel bearings. More harm than good may be done when checking the wheel bearings.

Reconnect the battery cables and start the

forklift again. Listen again for any unusual noises.
Lastly, a good preventative maintenance on your forklift will include some cleaning. Wipe down the forklift and use a spray cleaner to clean the forklift. Jeff recommends an oil-based spray cleaner for the most effective cleaning of your forklift.

Always follow proper safety procedures when performing any maintenance on your forklift.Use a good checklist when performing preventative maintenance on your forklift. Use the checklist to make sure all the work items are performed and to make notes of any issues that should be checked into further.

Caterpillar Forklift

2009-04-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

Caterpillar Forklift

When hard working manufacturing, industrial and commercial applications require total material handling solutions, they demand Caterpillar forklift. Available in model capacities ranging from 2,200 to 33,000 pounds, our full line of products is extensive and includes alternating current (AC) electric counterbalanced trucks, rugged internal combustion trucks, reach trucks and walkies. With a dedicated focus on quality, reliability and customer service, our trucks offer the solutions you've come to expect.

Quality

Manufactured in Houston, Texas to ISO 9001:2000 standards;

Caterpillar forklift are designed to increase the productivity of any material handling operation. Our trucks feature several industry leading features such as the advanced operator Presence Detection System (PDS), informative displays, and high strength mast and carriage designs along with the highest level of operator comfort. Customers can also request industry specific features and options for customizing their forklift to meet the needs of specific applications.

Reliability

With heavy usage on multiple shifts, customers expect our products to perform. To meet these expectations, we provide low maintenance products and offer industry leading service intervals (up to 500 hours). By making it easy for customers to complete planned maintenance, increasing operator comfort and minimizing downtime,

Caterpillar forklift are designed to help your bottom line.

Service

A variety of industry-leading material handling solutions, including professional parts and service programs are available to customers. Every new lift truck is backed by a one-year / unlimited-hours warranty, a Free Loaner Service Guarantee, and the industry-leading Parts Fast / Parts Free Guarantee, which ensures next day availability of parts at the dealer's location or they are free. This customer service commitment creates a true relationship that is built on trust. This trust combined with outstanding product quality and reliability, makes Caterpillar forklift your choice for total material handling solutions.

Rough Terrain Forklift

2009-04-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of Rough Terrain Forklift

By Thomas Morva

Rough terrain

forklifts are perfect for a variety of outdoor construction and loading needs. A rough terrain forklift is often used to carry materials like lumber, bricks, steel beams, and concrete, among others. A rough terrain forklift differs from a normal forklift in two major ways: they are operated by internal combustion engines, and they have inflatable tires with thick tread that allows operators to drive them over uneven or loose terrain.

A rough terrain

forklift is a strong rugged vehicle. Many heavy-duty rough terrain forklifts can carry several tons of material at a time. They are carefully calibrated to provide a counterbalance at the back of the lift that keeps the load from making the lift tip forward. Some models of rough terrain forklifts have four-wheel drive as well as four wheel steering. Most rough terrain forklifts have a hydraulic system that lifts and lowers the forks.

Internal combustion engines power rough terrain

forklifts. These engines provide more power than electric engines, allowing for greater acceleration and speed. Different internal combustion engines run on different fuels. Gasoline, liquid propane, compressed natural gas, and diesel are the most common. Diesel is the cheapest, but it is not as commonly found as gasoline. One additional advantage of internal combustion engines is that they significantly reduce refueling time.

The tires on a rough terrain

forklift are important. Rough terrain forklifts are able to ride over uneven ground because of the traction that the tires provide. Some rough terrain forklifts are equipped with tires that allow people to drive them over rocks, wood, sand, mud, snow, and ice, making them virtually unstoppable. Most of these tires fill with air like conventional tires found on cars and trucks, but some are solid rubber.

A rough terrain forklift is a great addition to any construction site. Forklifts make it possible for operators to transport tons of material over hazardous ground.

Hyster Electric Forklift

2009-04-04T20:49:00.001-07:00

Hyster Electric Forklift

The E45-70XN is the newest line of electric forklift from Hyster Company. These electric forklifts offer advancements in quality and ergonomics making them one of the most operator-friendly AC-powered electric forklifts on the market.This is an electric forklift designed for indoor use and ideally suited for a wide variety of applications such as general warehousing, food and beverage distributors, lumber and building material distribution. With advanced dependability, lower cost of operations, superior ergonomics and enhanced productivity, the new E45-70XN series is truly The Safe Choice.

A newly designed operator compartment provides a comfortable and highly productive environment for the operator. The overall floor plate area has increased 20% while the fore-aft foot space area has increased 10% as compared to the previous models.

By using AC motors and transistor controller technology for all traction and hydraulic systems, the Hyster E45-70XN reduces the frequency and cost of maintenance.
The Hyster-designed thermal management system continuously monitors critical electric forklift functions and initiates corrective action if pre-set thermal thresholds are reached in order to optimize performance and protect vital components.

Forklift Manual

2009-04-04T03:26:00.000-07:00

Forklift Manual

By Brent A Bowlin

If you have a

forklift on your premises, you will need to consider the following points. If you truly answer any of them with "no", you will want to consider the issue for the safety of your drivers and anyone entering the zone of the forklift travel.

Forklift operating area separated from pedestrians

2) Pedestrian access to forklift work areas restricted by barriers

3) Pedestrian walkways clearly marked and provided

4) Forklift in operation signs

5) Mirrors for drivers and pedestrians provided at all blind spots

6) Changes to workplace daily schedule communicated to ALL affected employees for forklift use

7) Forklift and tires suitable for use on all operating surfaces at this workplace

8) Seatbelt fitted to the forklift and used

9) Seat is in good shape

10) Forklift is on a regular maintenance schedule

11) Forklift is inspected and is certified each year

12) Forklift an appropriate size for the tasks

13) Forklift has a readable load chart

14) Operators understand the load chart

15) Load chart indicate the safe capacity for different attachments and is rated for each

16) Forklift fitted with correctly operating warning devices (horn works, turn signal and brake and reverse lights work, reversing beeper)

17) Forklift has a correctly operating speed control device fitted

18) Overhead cage is fitted on the forklift

19) Forklift operators hold an appropriate certificate for operation

20) Uncertified forklift operators are directly supervised in sight of an authorized person

21) Forklift operators observe speed limits and warning signs

22) Forklift operators receive appropriate training and instruction on all models of forklifts in operation and on workplace hazards and safe work procedures

23) Forklift operators understand the requirement to report any equipment damage and forklift incidents

24) Use a pre-test checklist at the beginning of each shift

If you have answered, "yes" to these points, congratulations on a fine job on forklift safety. If you did answer "no" to a few, just make adjustments and introduce the policies to your employees and make sure if you do have visitors on the floor, to make sure everyone knows of the safety policies. Make everyone safe.

New Forklift

2009-04-03T05:46:00.000-07:00

New Forklift

By Thomas Morva

Early any

warehouse, freight dock, construction site, and manufacturing plant needs a forklift. Forklifts can be bought new or used from many different sources. It is vital that forklift buyers know exactly what they are looking for before they purchase a forklift. Several factors need to be considered before the buyer makes a decision. The price of the forklift and the main tasks it will be used for are two of the most important factors in choosing which forklift to buy.

New

forklifts generally cost at least $15,000. Electric forklifts are generally more expensive at the time of purchase but they save money in the long run. A forklift for sale with an internal combustion engine may cost less to buy but must be refueled often. The common price range for a standard 5,000-pound forklift is between $16,000 and $30,000 depending on the feature offered.

Forklifts with greater lifting capacity can cost much more, forklifts that can carry 35,000 pounds will cost at least a hundred thousand dollars. Used forklifts cost significantly less but are still expensive. A used forklift can cost as little as half as much as a comparably equipped new one, but may need more repairs, and so the money that a person saves when buying a used forklift may need to be spent later on repairs. It is important to buy a used forklift with a warranty in case it does need repairs.

What the forklift is used for is also important. Some forklifts are made exclusively for indoor use, while others are equipped to ride over rugged uneven terrain outdoors. Forklifts all have different lifting capabilities as well. When looking for a forklift for sale it is important for buyers to keep their own needs in mind and buy the best possible forklift for their requirements.Buying a forklift can be a daunting process. With so many models on the market and so many uses for them, it is often difficult to find the perfect one. Forklift shoppers should be sure to keep their budget and needs in mind when finding purchasing a forklift.

Yale Forklift

2009-04-01T21:58:00.000-07:00

Yale Forklift

Yale Cushion I.C.E. Lift Trucks have the features and specifications you want. Yale designs and manufactures forklift trucks for specific industries and applications - all Yale trucks are matched to the job.Yale in-line 4 cylinder and GM V6 engines are powerful, durable and efficient engines that are application proven for performance and reliability.Yale Hi-Vis masts incorporate innovative engineering for unsurpassed visibility and solid construction. All components are engineered for outstanding performance and extended, low-maintenance life.

Advanced ergonomics and operator comfort result in greater productivity. Three fuel options are available including Gas, LPG and Diesel (CNG available upon request). Yale cushion tire I.C.E. lift trucks offer excellent performance and superior operator comfort.

Hyster Forklift

2009-04-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hyster Forklift

Hyster offers a comprehensive range of warehousing equipment, industrial lift trucks, container handlers and reach stackers as well as quality parts to meet your materials handling needs. Expert consultancy and responsive local service are provided through our worldwide network of distribution partners. Together, we deliver a complete package of products and solutions to help you improve efficiency, drive down costs and streamline your materials flow.

Hyster is one of the best-known names in the industry, with a reputation of making durable lifting equipment dating back to the 1920’s. Our history page records some of the major events in the development of a brand that now has a presence in over 130 countries.

Hyster is part of the NACCO Materials Handling Group (NMHG), and enjoys the stability and backing provided by its large, successful parent company. For key facts and figures visit the NACCO Industries page.

Explore the global organization that designs, engineers and manufactures

Hyster products and provides support and back up to distributors and customers around the world by going to our “Global Operations” section.

Distribution and support for Hyster products is organized around major world regions:
North America and Canada
Latin America
Europe, the Middle East & Africa Asia – Pacific

Forklift Attachments

2009-03-24T20:37:00.001-07:00

Forklift Attachments
By Thomas Morva

Forklift attachments are used to increase the number of functions performed by a forklift. Forklifts are basically designed to lift rectangular loads and carry them from one place to another. With the help of attachments, it can perform a number of varied tasks.

A forklift consists of a fork shaped lifting mechanism that is powered using a hydraulics system. All the attachments are designed to fit in the forks or projecting platform of the forklift. Some attachments are also connected to the hydraulic system of the forklift. A range of attachments like waste handling, sweeping machines, drum handling equipment, snow ploughs, salt spreaders and others are in use today.

Other commonly used attachments include access platforms to lift workers to a certain height, fork extensions to provide stability, drum handling equipment to lift drums and battery changers to lift heavy batteries. The construction industry also uses a lot of attachments like mechanical scissor grab? To lift metal beams, yokes to mount scissor grabs and other lifting equipment on a fork truck and pallets to carry loads like metal sheets. Magnet attachments are used to keep warehouses, car parks and container depots free of metal debris such as nails, nuts and bolts.

These attachments make the forklifts more versatile, and save considerable costs for a company or warehouse that uses it. Safety attachments like fork fenders can be used to warn people of moving forklifts. Companies also design customized attachments based on the exclusive needs of the customer.New attachments are constantly being designed so that forklifts can enter new work areas and improve cost effectiveness. However, some of these attachments create handling problems, as they are heavy and do not have lifting handles. Attaching and removing these can take a lot of time and effort. Apart from these, other attachments certainly add value to a forklifts performance.

Forklift Accidents

2009-03-23T02:59:00.000-07:00

Avoiding A Forklift Accidents - Making Your Work Environment Safer

By Ernest Jarquio

Forklifts provide a useful benefit to all warehouses and loading docks, not to mention the usefulness of a forklift on a construction site. OSHA has very strict requirements for the certification of anyone who will be operating a forklift. This training is done to ensure that the person not only knows how to safely operate the forklift but also what to do in an emergency situation. Training can give an operator the needed safety procedures that should be followed while operating a forklift. However it cannot make them follow them. If training were a surefire way of eliminating the risk of a forklift accident, there wouldn't be the high number that there is everyday.

Preventable Accidents

Statistics have shown that everyday there are around 260 such accidents. There are about 95,000 per year that happen. On average about every three days a person is killed in one of these accidents. Some of these accidents could have been prevented.

The injuries to persons involved are not always to the operator but often to a person working in the vicinity of the forklift's operation. All people who work around forklifts should also be trained on how to watch out for these heavy-duty machines that are carrying heavy loads.

Effect On Productivity

While operators are trained in safety procedures some still find this big machine to be an over sized toy. This should never be the case but sadly it is and supervisors should do more to ensure that all work conditions are kept safe. To most business people safety is not factored into the discussion of productivity and profits. With poor safety due to an operator not operating a forklift safely, productivity goes downs, as do the profits.

Safety should be a team effort in preventing a forklift accidents. Not all accidents are the operator's fault due to neglect. Some accidents happen when circumstances change and an unforeseen hazard is presented. Worn out parts on the forklift can lead to this unforeseen hazard.

Pre-Operation Inspections

Therefore it is extremely important that pre-operation inspections are done every time prior to using the forklift. This will help the operator to have a better chance of spotting any malfunction prior to an accident happening. Should anything look off with the forklift, it should not be operated until a repair technician has checked the forklift over and cleared it for operations.

When all workers observe forklift safety procedures and adhere to OSHA regulations, the numbers of forklift accidents will declines. This creates a safer work environment for all workers. It also increases productivity and company profits. It reduces the amount of damage to equipment and thus reduces equipment costs that are associated with the repair and replacement of damaged forklifts. This is a win-win situation for all workers as well as for the company.

Forklift Rental

2009-03-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

Used Forklift Rental
By Christine OKelly

If you only need a forklift for a single job, or if you want to avoid the higher costs of used forklifts, renting is the perfect solution. You want this process to be easy, stress-free, and sufficient. Before contacting the rental company, decide exactly what you need, and what you require to get the job done properly. Here is a guide to get you started in the right direction.

Type Of Forklift

How rental, new, or used forklifts will be used in your company will significantly determine the type of power it needs to run on. Gas or diesel, for example, give off toxic fumes and have more power, making them the ideal machine for rough terrain and outdoor applications. Electric styles, on the other hand, have less power and less noise, but they also have less ability to maneuver on uneven surfaces. These are perfect for indoor applications. Propane powered models are another option.

Style

Before calling to rent used forklifts, you should know what style matches you and the job you are doing. Some models require you to sit. Others allow you to stand up on a short platform behind the main machine. Some styles you can walk behind and others give you the option of walking or riding.

The one thing to keep in mind is that the style determines the limits of the forklift. A walk behind is unable to do the same things as a ride on variety. Comfort is another thing to consider. If you will be using it for long periods, a standing or walk behind model can become very tiresome.

Load Requirements

The loads you will be working with also factor into the choice of forklift rental. If you are working with loads that are extremely heavy, you need to make sure the rental, new, or used forklifts that move it are rated for that weight. The size of the load may also play a factor. If the forks are not wide enough, you may need additional accessories to ensure you can lift the load safely. Finally, consider how high you need to lift the load. If you select the wrong model, raising it too high becomes a serious safety concern.

Additional Equipment

When renting a forklift, consider any additional accessories you need before ordering to be sure you get the accessories that match the rental. Try to get everything at the same place to help eliminate that problem as well. If you are moving barrels, you will need barrel handlers. Other examples might include clamps, side shift, sleeves, fork positioners, and many more.

Whether you own a small store in Vermont, or a large warehouse in Chicago, forklift rentals can often be the better option. You eliminate the expense associated with purchasing new or used forklifts. To get the best experience possible, consider the load, the space you have available, and your comfort to find the perfect model.

Used Forklift Trucks

2009-03-20T07:02:00.001-07:00

A Buyers Guide to Purchasing a Used Forklift Trucks
By Christine O Kelly

Buying a used forklift trucks has many benefits and downfalls, but comparing these to what you need will ensure you purchase the right one. Used equipment certainly won't carry that new look and feel, but it shouldn't be an ancient model that threatens to fall apart with the first movement. They are particularly helpful for businesses that will be using the unit enough to justify spending the additional money. Second-hand models also help you to avoid loss caused by the depreciation that occurs as soon as you start using it. With both styles, talk with a forklift service to decide which brands, styles, and options will help you decide what to look for.

Advantages Of Used Forklift Trucks

The cost of second-hand equipment is its biggest benefit. You can purchase them for thousands of dollars less to start with and can avoid the loss of depreciation. If you choose carefully, you can also avoid the hiccups new models often have, which can lead to you spending even more money at a forklift service shop. In some cases, some of the repairs and any recalls may already be completed. Depending on the situation, it may come with additional parts, accessories, and items.

Disadvantages Of Purchasing Used

Purchasing a used forklift trucks requires a fair bit of care and consideration. Some units available are worn out and may even be dead when they are offered up for sale. To avoid this, always check the unit out carefully before purchase. If you buy from a reputable forklift service dealer, they will maintenance and repair it before selling it and will give you a chance to try it out and return it if you find it doesn't meet your needs. Because they are older, they likely will not have the latest features and options, but you might be able to install an after-market version. Keep in mind that they will not last as long as a new version because there are already a number of hours on the motor, chassis, and other components.

Tips For Getting The Best Buy

As previously stated, always looks a used forklift trucks over carefully before deciding to buy. Ask for pictures of the entire unit and examine them closely if you buy online or from a distant supplier. The model and brand you choose plays an important role. Some will be more prone to certain breakdowns than others will. This helps you to know what to expect. Finally, you may want to avoid models that are no longer being produced or served by the manufacturer. This could make repairs difficult if the forklift service company cannot get the parts they need and are forced to have them specially machined.

A used forklift trucks is a great option for light work or small budgets. When you shop wisely, they work just as well as a new version and are just as effective at getting the job done. If you are unsure at what model or brand you need, a trusted Chicago forklift service company or one close to you will help you determine which one will best meet your needs.

Forklift Battery

2009-03-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

Forklifts Battery
By Thomas Morva

Forklift battery are electrical storage devices that convert chemical energy into electricity by using a galvanic cell. A galvanic cell is a simple device consisting of two electrodes, one negative and one positive, and an electrolyte solution. The most common batteries used in forklifts are lead-acid batteries that offer the best price to power ratio.

Forklifts need a constant supply of power to work properly. They use deep cycle industrial grade battery that can be discharged up to 80% on a regular basis. The main chemicals used in these are Sulfuric acid and water. At full charge, its 30% acid and 70% water.

The most important component used in these battery are thick metal plates measuring more than 1/4", which is seven times the thickness of normal automotive batteries (1/25?). Thicker plates mean longer life, as it takes longer for the acid to corrode the plates. Most industrial deep cycle batteries use Lead-Antimony plates that increase plate life and strength. These plates also result in gassing and water loss. It is important to monitor the water level on a regular basis. The acid used in these batteries is very corrosive and it is important to wear gloves while handling them.

These battery are not 100% efficient. Stored energy is lost due to heat and chemical reactions during charging and discharging. Also the amount of electricity required to charge the batteries is always more than the amount discharged. The efficiency of a typical lead acid deep cycle battery varies between 85% and 95%.

Forklifts are used in every type of industry, as they help in saving costs and improve efficiency. The battery used in these should be checked regularly and other guidelines should be followed to increase the life of this battery. The life cycle of this battery lies between 10 to 20+ years depending on usage, care and make.

Used Forklifts

2009-03-18T04:50:00.001-07:00

Buying a Used Forklifts - What You Need to Know
By Dave Demink

Is Buying a Used Forklifts Good For the Business?

Buying used forklifts can prove fruitful for the business in a number of ways. If the maintenance capacity of the concerned business is of high quality, then the buying a used lift is always recommended. Buying a used lift can be a very good option of saving money. However, the decision of buying lifts can also prove hazardous on account of the fact that, the used version requires a lot of maintenance than their newer counterparts. One way of looking at the decision of buying lifts can be the thinking of the exact use of the forklift for the business. If the forklift is used for a lesser duration during the day, then buying used forklifts is always preferable.

Reliable Sources for Buying

If the forklifts are bought from a reliable source such as a reputed dealer, chances of the forklifts forklifts is increased. But, buying forklifts from a previous owner is not recommended, as they may have not kept the forklift in proper shape. The dealers are smart enough to understand the fact that, selling of fine lifts will result in them getting more customers. Hence, they usually sell good quality forklifts. This proves the point that buying forklifts lasting in the same manner as the new from esteemed dealers is always fruitful.

Safety Concerns

The accidents caused by the forklifts at work places are a common factor. Hence, making sure about the safety before buying a forklift is a necessity. When buying used forklifts the capacity plate describing the maximum load handling of the truck has to be checked. Checking of the harness, seatbelts, warning lights and visibility has also to be done before buying a forklift.

Clark Forklift

2009-03-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Clark Forklift

Presently, there are over 250,000 CLARK lift trucks operating in North America and 350,000 units operating worldwide.

Worldwide, CLARK has one of the broadest product lines in the industry with five major lines. Trucks ranging from 1,500 to 18,000 pound capacities, LPG, gasoline, dual fuel, diesel, narrow-aisle stackers, electric riders and powered hand trucks.

Parts Distribution – CLARK has state-of-the-art parts distribution warehouses in Louisville, Kentucky and Changwon, South Korea. The parts warehouses are centrally located to service all of CLARK’s dealers and customers.

Your CLARK Dealer is your local source for all your parts needs through CLARK TOTALIFT®. Availability of parts through CLARK TOTALIFT®, covers over 120,000 items specifically built for 20 different brands of lift trucks and other industrial equipment.

For the past nine decades, CLARK has been one of the industry's most progressive and responsive manufacturers, continuously seeking innovative ways to improve product, expand service and provide value to its customers.

CLARK currently has one of the largest dealer support networks in the material handling industry in North America, boasting over 230 locations. We have over 550 locations worldwide with dealer representation in more than 80 countries.

CLARK continues to be an industry leader with innovative product development, including safety features such as the operator restraint system, pioneered by CLARK and adopted as a standard feature on all forklift trucks.

ISO 9001 — CLARK, the first forklift manufacturer in the world to be certified in compliance with the internationally accepted quality standard ISO 9001 for all its forklift manufacturing plants worldwide. CLARK’s on-going commitment is to have the Number 1 Quality system in the industry.

ISO 14001 — CLARK'S Korean facility acquired its ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) certificate in 2001. This places CLARK in a dominant position in the market to be prepared for any environmental restrictions.

Lean Manufacturing — CLARK adopted the highly successful and efficient system of "Lean Manufacturing" for its assembly plants, and has completed the transition of its Korean plant. "Lean Manufacturing" was developed to ensure the most efficient and effective method of manufacturing plant management and use of resources. COPS (Clark Optimized Production System) focuses not only on production efficiencies, but also on quality of product and services.

Engineering — Through CLARK's new product development and value engineering program, product engineers and suppliers work together to minimize costs and, at the same time, improve the quality and efficiency of our products.

Forklift Certification

2009-03-16T03:32:00.000-07:00

Forklift Certification
By Kenneth Hutchins

As corporate profit margins get tight and companies begin to squeeze their labor dollars, one will find that the first line item of scrutiny for any financial officer is the amount of money spent on a training budget. Experts on both sides of the issue argue daily about the indirect financial impact of well-trained employees vs. the direct expenditures of having them trained. For many companies, the trend of relying on video training and computer-based training programs (CBTs) has been the perfect blend of information dump and cost-efficiency.

In many cases these media provide maximum information in a minimum amount of time. They are usually well made, presented by articulate narrators and possess the added leisure of being able to train at will without chewing up trainers' man-hours.

But in the realm of forklift and other industrial safety subjects, they are a ticking bomb.

What many companies fail to consider when discussing the options of video training and CBTs is that workplace safety is NOT a place to cut corners. The money saved by using these methods may be far overshadowed by the cost to your business if something goes wrong. Some of the main items to consider are:

OSHA's requirements for training on these subjects
The liability aspects of accidents, which are more likely if training is weak
The inability of these media to promote information retention and thereby keep people safe

Because OSHA Said So, That's Why.

Since 1999, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has required that all forklift safety training in particular (and many other equipment safety instruction requirements reflect this decision as well) must be site- and equipment-specific (operators must physically demonstrate to a trainer that they can safely operate their machinery in the exact workplace where they will do so) and training and evaluation must be done by a knowledgeable person qualified to teach adult students. Roughly translated: if you rely on a video tape or CBT only as your training program and then walk away, the first time something goes wrong (and it will), OSHA is going to take a look at your training system, deem it inadequate, and hold your company responsible.

OSHA realizes that people need to have the benefit of safety training that does more than check off a box on a to-do list. Their job is keeping people alive at work, period. That's why they developed this rule. They want the assurance that a person who can react to specific needs of the trainees and the company is on hand to fill in the gaps and personally ascertain that the student has learned what he or she needs. Videos and computers don't do that. They keep plugging along. They'll talk to no one and still think they did the job well. A human trainer will look for that light bulb over the head of his or her students before moving on. When the subject is safety, OSHA wants to see far more than lip service thrown at the problem.

So you reduced the training budget by $3,000 and cost yourself $3.5 million in fines and damages. How much did you save again?

How much can one forklift accident cost you? Well, let's break it down:

1) OSHA fines can be between $7,000 and $70,000 per willful safety violation. If they visit (and after an accident, it's highly likely) and find that you have 10 forklifts and no one is wearing the safety belts on them that are 10 fines. And those operators weren't trained properly? 10 more fines. And they all drive too fast? 10 more fines. You see the pattern.

2) Medical bills. These can get very expensive, and usually warehouse-type injuries can involve weeks or months of recovery time. The bill is getting larger.

3) Lost man-hours. You now have one or more experienced workers out of commission. Now work is not getting done. Productivity suffers.

4) The possible lawsuit. What if the person injured was hit by a forklift driven by a poorly trained individual? Now his or her lawyer is drooling over your bank account. To make matters worse, if OSHA finds you at fault for willful safety violations, the plaintiff's legal team will have that information in hand going into court.

5) Punitive damages. At the end of the lawsuit comes the largest hit of all. This number can have many zeros at the end of it.

6) More training. Ironically, now that you have injured your experienced worker, you have to spend money to train a less experienced one to do his or her job.

So, tens of thousands or maybe hundreds of thousands in fines, another couple hundred thousand for medical bills, a couple more in settlement, maybe a quarter of a million to several million in punitive damages, several more thousand to train a new person, and all the while productivity and morale is down. It hardly seems like you saved anything by cutting corners, does it? Would you take a gamble like that at any racetrack or casino in the world?

How people learn is as important as what they learn, to a trainer.

If you want to guarantee retention of information (and in safety training, you DO!), then you need to employ methods that cause people to learn. Most people are kinesthetic learners; they pick up information better by being physically involved. They also have relatively short attention spans. They might watch a 10-minute video, but anything more, and they are sleeping or doodling, waiting for the misery to end. CBTs may keep their attention a bit longer due to extra participation, but the usual pattern for trainees is memorization to answer the questions, not retention to show the instructor that they are smart. Remember, people are social animals; not looking dumb to their peers or trainers is a far greater motivator than their personal quest to get 100% on the pop quiz at the end of the module.

Canned training has another important shortcoming that can be a serious detriment in safety training situations - it is impersonal; it may not apply to everyone in the room equally. For example, though it may seem like a mundane detail, a narrator on a videotape wearing a suit and tie and speaking with a British accent may not hold much credibility with a group of hard-hat wearing tool-pushers from Texas simply because they do not identify with him. They will respond much better to someone who can talk to them on their terms, using anecdotes that relate to their experiences.

Probably the most predominant deficiency of safety videos and CBTs is their inability to answer questions. They rarely go back over information if someone missed it. The will not stop to explain a concept if one person in the room is unclear (at best, a CBT will let you repeat the same information, with no further explanation). Remember, some people you train may not understand the terminology, or may not read well, or may not think as fast as the person who created the video or computer module. Your job in safety training is to make sure that one way or another, EVERY student gets the benefit of comprehending all the information as it applies to him or her. Keeping them alive is your job. Letting the info run them over like a runaway forklift is a sure way to guarantee that the first actual runaway forklift they encounter will, in fact, literally run them over too.

And if the safety regulations change slightly, your video is now out of date. Now you have to buy a new tape or train your people on the wrong things until you do. Not a very fluid and effective way to adjust to a changing work environment.

Common Sense is all it takes

There are plenty of areas in every business that could use some automation, streamlining, and general cost- and corner-cutting. However, (and this is a subject near and dear to our hearts for those of us who engage in the forklift safety training business) there are certain things worth the extra time and effort. Safety training should be at the top of that list. Forklifts are dangerous, quirky beasts. Almost 1 IN EVERY 6 workplace accidents (that includes slipping on spilled coffee and stapling one's hand to a bulletin board) involves a forklift. 1 in 4 of all workplace accidents occur in a loading area. Someone gets hurt by one of these machines every 11 minutes and dies because of one every 3 days in the U.S. alone. Do you want to put such a potentially dangerous tool in the hands of someone you've trained with the quick and cheap option?

Don't misunderstand, videos do teach. Some are well made and worth ADDING to your tool bag. CBT's go a step further and allow some degree of interaction, and can help your test students as you go. But as stand-alones, they're still a ticking bomb, and when a bomb goes off, you, as the safety manager, are going to get hit with a great deal of the shrapnel. So let's cut corners and use quick training methods on purchasing systems and new word processing software (which have much lower fatality rates), and keep a human being teaching human beings how to stay alive.

Forklift Hire

2009-03-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Forklift Hire
By Thomas Morva

Forklift hire is a perfect solution for solving temporary equipment shortage problems. Forklift hire can be a dream come true during times when there is an exceptionally high workload or temporary projects need to be completed. There are a number of companies that lease out forklifts, from construction equipment companies to car rental agencies. Forklifts can be rented for any length of time, sometimes up to several years. Renters can find any type of forklift they are looking for in order to complete any kind of work. People can hire forklifts for indoor warehouse use or for use in a rugged outdoor setting.

There are times in the warehouse and freight industries when the workload suddenly increases exponentially. The month before the Christmas holidays is a good example of this. Anyone who has ever worked in the shipping industry knows that this time is by far the busiest of the year and lots of temporary employees and equipment are needed to handle it. Hire a forklift during this time can make the work much easier to handle. A good forklift designed for indoor warehouse use can easily perform tasks that would take several people hours to do on their own.

Construction jobs can also benefit from forklift hire. A short-term outdoor building job can definitely use a rugged rough terrain forklift. A hired forklift is perfect for moving large amounts of materials like bricks, steel beams, drywall, or anything else. Rough terrain forklifts are perfect for the uneven ground of a construction site.

It is important that the operators of hired forklifts are properly trained and certified. It may be tempting for many people to try to use a forklift without being properly trained, but incorrect or unsafe use of a forklift can result in injury, death, or the destruction of machinery. Forklift hire is a perfect solution for temporary equipment needs, so long as trained personnel operate the lift correctly.

Pallet Truck

2009-03-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Working With a Forklift Or Pallet Truck - Improve the Safety For Everyone
By Christine OKelly

A forklift may be different from pallet truck, but they all need added precautions to keep everyone safe. The machines themselves carry with them a significant risk, but maintenance and the loads they carry require certain safety precautions as well. Operator training is a first step, but it requires a conscious effort by the company, the operator, and all those around this equipment to ensure everything goes well.

Forklift Batteries

Batteries for this kind of equipment are identical to those found in any other vehicle. As such, they will need to be removed, replaced, and recharged from time to time. Because of the harmful substances they contain, this puts the individual working with them at risk of inhalation and contact problems from the liquid as well as the fumes they can give off.

Mechanical Malfunction

A forklift should be inspected before each shift to make certain that all of the safety equipment is in place and the machine is in good repair. Defective brakes, steering, or lifting components for example, could cause serious accidents. Tires are another important area to watch out for -- having uneven wears or flat sections causes the equipment to be unstable, risking potential problems with the load.

Collisions

Because of the loads and size of these items, a forklift and pallet truck can make it difficult to see what is on the other side. This leads to damage, injury, or even fatalities. Adding safety equipment such as a horn, lights, or backup warning can be quite helpful in busy areas. It is also best to take steps preventing pedestrian traffic where this equipment is used and instruct operators to drive the equipment backwards to make seeing easier.

Load Problems

Loads pose a dangerous habit because of their ability to fall or collapse. Teach the individuals loading the pallets how to pack items so that they are stable. You also want them to check the load before allowing the forklift in to move the load. One popular way to stabilize a load is to wrap everything together with stretch wrap. This is important with pallet jacks as well because of the possibility of jerking the load. The surface of the flooring should also be in good condition. Lastly, teach the operator to understand which loads can be stacked on top of each other and which ones cannot.

Whether you have a large warehouse in New York or a store in Illinois, forklift safety and caution when using pallet truck should be top on the priority list at all times.

Forklift Safety

2009-03-09T03:23:00.000-07:00

Forklift Safety
By Tony Robinson

Safety in the workplace is paramount no matter what industry you are involved in.
Safety reports show that in Australia for example, one worker was killed every month as a result of forklift operating.

Anyone that is planning on driving a forklift needs to know all about forklift safety. If you are looking for a job that entails driving a lift truck you are going to find out that if you are not aware of the safety that you have to practice for driving a lift then you will have to learn that first. You have to go through safety training as well as classes in order to operate a lift truck. Once you have gone through the class, taken a test, and passed it, then you will able to get your forklift certification or licenses.

For businesses that are planning to purchase a forklift it is important to know all about forklift safety and procedures. All drivers and other workers will need to know how to operate the lift in a safe way so that they will not injure themselves or anyone else, and for other workers, they will need to be aware of safety around a forklift.

When you are learning all about forklift safety, you will learn operational strategies as well as management strategies such as putting the stabilizer feet down on the ground while you are picking up a load. You also learn that if you need to carry a heavy load down a slope or hill that you do it in reverse. Something else that may sound familiar in a safety for forklifts class is to always wear your seatbelt, and make sure that when you are reversing that your forklift is beeping to warn others around you that you may not can see them. There should be floor plans of zones around the factory floor, which are pedestrian, free so the forklift driver is not concerned about people walking in those areas.

Forklift safety is not complicated and a lot of it really comes natural to anyone with common sense. However, policies and procedures must be put into place and everyone must know and follow these.

There is an old adage that says "Accidents don't just happen, they are caused" If you are given a safety book to follow when you are going through the course then studying it might be a good idea, so that you can pass the test with flying colors. Once you pass your safety test, you are given a certification or license that will legally allow you to operate a forklift.

Most places of business will insist that their employees become certified to drive a lift truck. This means that they will have to go through the forklift safety course and pass it. Pay attention while you are taking this course, you just might learn something that you did not know. Practicing safety while operating a lift or being around a forklift can save your life or someone else's.

Don't forget, if you see anyone operating a forklift in an unsafe manner be sure that you report them to the proper authorities.

Fork Lifts

2009-03-06T01:06:00.000-08:00

Selecting a Forklift - The Right Options Do Make a Difference By Christine OKelly
Choosing the perfect forklift for your business or organization requires a basic understanding of the styles and options available. This allows you to compare the various choices to your situation to decide what will maximize your productivity and make it easy for those using the lift. They are available from the most basic styles to styles featuring the latest in technologies to meet your needs, regardless of what projects lay ahead.

Types Of Forklifts
One of the first decisions you will need to make involves whether you will be using the equipment indoors or outdoors. For those needing outdoor forklifts, an internal combustion style is the best option. They are easy to refuel and have the added power to keep them going. Because they give off dangerous fumes, they cannot be used inside. Electric powered styles are ideal for indoors. They are quiet and only need to be plugged in and recharged to keep them going. They are the most cost-effective models for heavy lifting indoors.

These two styles often come in special designs to fit the needs of specific situations. Indoor lifting equipment is available in a narrow design. Called narrow aisle forklifts, these are designed specifically with full warehouses in mind because they can operate in a space as small as six feet. Tough terrain and soft ground is a common problem encountered in outdoor conditions. For these situations, rough terrain equipment has been created with extra power, larger tires, and other options so they can maneuver in these areas easily and stand up to the intense wear and tear.

Tire Choices
This is one of the most commonly overlooked options when it comes to heavy-duty lifting equipment. Making the wrong choice here leads to a significant expense and a lot of frustration. Cushioned tires are those made from solid rubber. They are a more affordable option and last considerably longer on flooring, making them ideal for indoor applications. Pneumatic tires are identical to the ones found on a regular vehicle. They may be more expensive, but they are superior when it comes to working outdoors because they handle the terrain far better.

A third style is a combination of the cushioned and pneumatic styles. Called solid pneumatic tires, these are similar to traditional tires with added layers of solid rubber on the outside. These tires are designed for places like construction sites that pose an elevated risk of popping or putting holes in tires. They are great on uneven ground and prevent damage to forklift.

Additional Options
A wealth of other options increases the convenience and safety of forklifts. A certain number of safety features are standard with all models. The requirements change depending on where you work and they do have additional features that go over and above basic standards.

Additional attachments can be purchased for the forks to increase the number of jobs they are capable of performing. These can include specially designed sleeves that make it easy and secure to lift round or uneven loads. Side shifting allows the operator to move the load from side to side without having to adjust the position of the equipment. Tilting is also available to help keep the load secure on uneven ground or keeping the item from sliding or rolling off the equipment.With all of the options available in forklifts and the constantly changing technology, there is sure to be one on the market that will make your work as easy and as effortless as possible. The idea is to select one that fits your budget while maximizing your productivity so you keep your organization as profitable as possible.

Fork Truck

2009-03-05T05:03:00.000-08:00

Common Work Accidents Involving Scaffolding and Forklift Truck
By Mansi Aggarwal

If you have been injured in a scaffolding or fork lift truck accident and it wasn't your fault, then you could be entitled to make a No Win No Fee compensation claim.

Common types of fork lift truck accidents:

• Employees, customers or pedestrians being hit by forklift trucks.

• Loads falling off the forklift truck.

• Fork truck over-turning.

• Fork truck colliding with goods, which as a result fall and injure employees, customers or pedestrians.

Causes of fork lift truck accidents:

• Driver operating error.

• inadequate maintenance of the forklift truck.

• Unsuitable premises for forklift truck use.

• Lack of training for forklift truck drivers.

• Inadequate supervision of forklift truck drivers and other employees working within the area.

• Others including heavy loads, poorly stacked pallets and obstructions.

Common causes of scaffolding accidents:

Many building and construction workers are injured in scaffolding accidents at work. The most common causes of scaffolding accidents are:

• Missing boards or base plates.

• Planking not being able to support the weight and giving way.

• Planks not being secured adequately and slipping out of place.

• Slipping on planks.

• Being struck by falling objects.

• Scaffolding incorrectly constructed or installed.

• Scaffolding worn out or inadequately maintained.

• Inadequate guard railing or toe boards.

• Inadequate ties.

• Insecure bracing.

• Defective foundations.

• Falls from ladders.

Under the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996, the employer must ensure the scaffolding is safe to use, is correctly constructed under supervision and is inspected by a competent person.

Will I Lose my Job?

It is understandable that if you are injured at work, then you might be nervous about claiming compensation against you employer. However, in reality it is not legally justifiable for your employer to dismiss you for making a compensation claim.

Your employer has a legal duty to provide a safe environment of work for their employee's and is required to have insurance cover against such scaffolding accidents. This means that your employer's insurance company will pay your compensation and not your employer.

The insurance company of your employer may contact you and offer to settle your case, usually for far less than the amount an experienced solicitor could recover for you. Remember, insurance companies have got solicitors working hard on their side and so should you. Don't under settle your claim; always find an independent panel of solicitor's to help you to claim every penny you deserve!

Pallet Trucks

2009-03-04T06:02:00.001-08:00

An Electric Pallet Stacker Is Worth Its Weight In Gold
By Karl Malden

Electric pallet stackers are electric motor driven pallet stackers (also called forklifts) designed to pick up, deliver and consolidate pallets into columns.

Since the average empty pallet weights approx. 20 to 40 kilograms and has a size of 100 x 122 cm, it is easy to understand how demanding and hazardous would be to lift and stack even empty pallets manually.

And we didn't even mention loaded pallets. Managing fully loaded pallets is simply not possible without some kind of mechanized assistance. As long as the total weight doesn't exceed 1500 kilograms, an electric pallet stacker is able to deliver and stack up loaded pallets. In order to safely exceed this weight limit, heavy-duty stackers are needed.

The main difference between a manually driven and an electric pallet stacker is the way they transport pallets from one place to another. Both types of stackers use an electro-hydraulic system for lifting and a manual relief-valve mechanism for lowering loads, but non-electric pallet stackers are being propelled or dragged by muscle power. An average warehouse employee can move roughly a short ton without difficulty, provided the warehouse floor is smooth enough and the operator doesn't need to handle more than 10 pallets/day. Otherwise you should consider an electric-motor driven pallet stacker.

Besides electric drive, electric pallet stackers come with several additional features such as safety brakes or variable-speed forward/reverse gear mechanism. One of the advantage of electric power stackers over other types of self-propelled forklift trucks is that they don't emit any waste gas for disposal, so among forklifts, they stand as an ideal choice for indoor use. The slightly higher initial cost of self-propelled power stackes would be more than compensated by cost savings on fuel. On the other hand, if you want to operate an electrical forklift in more than one shift, you may need to purchase additional batteries since the total time for charging and cooling may take up to 16 hours.

There are three types of design for forklifts when it comes to stabilization.

1. Counterweight stabilized forklifts has the advantage of being able to lift pallets directly off the floor

2. Fork over pallet stackers are less expensive and more space efficient with added maneuverability but can not lift pallets right off the floor due to the stabilizer legs that get in the way

3. With straddle legged forklifts it is possible to lower the forks all the way down to the floor and pick up pallets from there but these electric forklifts are more expensive and take up more space to store

Electric pallet stackers need quite a lot of maintenance. If you decide to purchase and used one, you cannot be sure about the actual condition of it, or whether any conservative maintenance strategy has been followed. In every case, it is recommended to purchase a new electric pallet stacker.

Finding the most efficient method for managing pallets can make all the difference. Increased safety, reduced product damage and fuel cost, cost-effective storage and distribution are among the factors that need to be carefully taken into consideration. Although electric pallet stackers are more expansive than manual drive forklifts, when it comes to the final analysis, worth their weight in gold.

Used Forklift

2009-03-03T05:06:00.000-08:00

Used Forklift Basics - What You Must Know
By Dave Demink

Avoidance of Leaky Lifts:

One of the major basic disadvantages of the used forklift is the leaky nature found in some of them. If the leaks are present in the engine, they can prove to be very costly. The leaks are also present in the hoses and the cylinder pistons. These leakages could be present in the front and back seals and also, on the floor. These simple basics of the lifts have to be studied before buying them.

Run Down

The used forklift basics can be best understood from the experiences of the people already using the used forklift. The basics to be considered of the lifts are the need of lifting, the capacity of lifting, the type of fuel to be used and the type of tyres to be used for the lifts. The main factor of the used forklift basics is the checking of the maintenance history of the used vehicle, rather than only thinking of the economic advantage in buying the lift itself. While determining the basics of the tires types of the lift, the determination of the exact usage area indoors as well as outdoors has to be done. This will determine the exact needs of the tires of the lift. The lifts fuel types are considered as a personal preference. The basics about the capacity of the used forklift are determined by the weights handled by the lift and the height that it is able to reach.

Forklift Maintenance

The other basic thing of the used forklift is the proper care that it requires. Regular oil change, hydraulic inspection and the basic lubrication have to be thoroughly looked into. Keeping the wheels free from the debris is also equally important for the all lifts.

Forklift Parts

2009-03-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

A Look at Forklift Parts
By Thomas Morva

There are several components that all forklifts have in common. These forklift parts are vital to the operation of the equipment. Forks, brake components, and transmissions are some of the parts that are purchased most often.

Forklift parts can be purchased from several sources. Both new and used parts are usually available wherever forklifts are sold. Many dealerships have extensive catalogues that list the parts they have available. There are a number of different manufacturers of forklift parts. The same company that made the forklift can make the replacement parts or a generic maker can manufacture them.

The forks are possibly the most important component of the forklift. Without quality forks, the lift is not able to transport cargo efficiently. The forks, also called blades or tines, vary greatly from model to model. Most forks are made of steel. Forks differ in the amount of weight they can handle. Weaker model forks can safely lift 900 pounds, while heavy-duty forks are capable of lifting several tons. It is important to note that a forklift’s weight capacity depends on much more than just the forks. The engine size and the strength of the lifting system also play important roles in determining how much a forklift can safely carry.

Forklift brake parts are other important parts. Forklift brakes operate in a similar manner to the brakes of an automobile and they have many parts in common. Brake shoes and break drums are among the most commonly purchased forklift brake parts.

Forklift transmissions are vital to the machine’s operation. Forklifts can use either manual or automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions are probably more common and are easier to fix, but many people prefer automatic transmissions because they are easier to use. Many forklift parts dealers have both new and used transmissions for sale.

Buying good replacement forklift parts is a great way to keep the machine functioning properly. Many forklift parts dealers offer extensive warranties on their products. Forklift parts are available for nearly every make and model, so it should not be too hard to find the necessary parts.

Lift Trucks

2009-02-28T18:50:00.001-08:00

Fun Forklift Chores - Entertaining Lift Truck Activities
By Christine OKelly

Recently, a forklift operator performed a variety of stunts with a lift truck and released a video of it on the popular video sharing site YouTube. Authorities quickly charged, convicted, and ordered him to pay $1200 to WorkSafe, to perform 50 hours of community service, and take an OHS course at his expense.

Playing around on the job is definitely not a good idea as this operator proved on many levels. If you want to have fun and test your skills, plenty of opportunities exist to do so safely.

Forklift Driver Competitions

Organizations and companies hold competitions as either a common interest group or an employee event. Lift truck operators demonstrate their skills to find out who is the best. These competitions explore a wide range of skill sets including moving difficult loads, maneuvering through tough obstacles, speed, and efficiency. The operators are also asked to use different types of equipment, accessories, and features.

Some competitions pit different brands or styles of equipment against each other to find out which ones rate higher. Manufacturers and industry organizations will enter these to see how the different forms of technology stack up against each other. The events focus on agility, speed, strength, and accuracy.

Lift Truck Challenges

Although similar to the competitions mentioned previously, this focus more on how well the forklift driver can operate the machine. These are set up as a series of difficult tasks such as moving an object into a difficult location. They can even be a large obstacle course that is filled with a series of different loads and obstacles. The winner is often the individual who can complete all of the tasks successfully.

Training Simulators

While these are not exactly an event, they can be lots of fun all the same. The operator climbs into a booth that replicates driving a real forklift. The program then takes him through a series of different procedures, techniques, and situations. High-quality simulators can adjust the difficulty of the program to meet the ability of the driver.

These programs are specifically for educational purposes, but they can still be a form of friendly competition. One option is to see how difficult the training gets before the operator makes a mistake. You can also challenge the drivers in their own miniature competition. While they are having fun, the individuals are learning new techniques and brushing up on existing skills.

Safety Tests

All operators need to check over their equipment on a regular basis, so running tests and miniature competitions can be an education and fun activity. You can compete with others to see if anyone misses anything. However, you can have a bit more fun by having someone add violations to the machine (nothing permanent) to see if you can find them all.

Whether you run a large outdoor machine in Kentucky or an electric IL forklift in a small warehouse, this equipment is definitely not a toy. This doesn't mean it can't be fun. Challenges, competitions, simulators, and even small company events are a great way to have fun with a lift truck and interact with others. You get to show off your skills and add to them without worrying about harming someone.

Pallet Jack

2009-02-27T18:31:00.001-08:00

Pallet Jack
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A pallet jack, also known as a pallet truck or pump truck, is a tool used to lift and move pallets. A manual pallet jack is a hand powered jack.

Operation is by the centrally located Control Lever and Handle. Steering is accomplished by rotating the Handle. The Control Lever has three function positions. In the down position, the hydraulic pump is engaged and pumping the Handle will raise the frame. The upper position releases hydraulic pressure, lowering the frame. Raising Control Lever from neutral position to upper position automatically disengages Locking Lever. Lowering of the frame may also be accomplished by the handy, foot-operated Lowering Pedal.

Warning:
1. This pallet jack is designed to use with palletized and stable load on level floor.

2. Do not use the pallet jack for any other purpose than its intended use.

3. Do not use with unstabled, unbalanced or loosely stacked load.

4. Do not use the pallet jack on slope. The pallet jack may be uncontrollable and create danger.

5. Do not put foot or hand under lowering forks. Injury can result.

6. Do not put foot or hand in any moving part of the truck when it is being lowered, elevated or moved.

7. Do not allow foot or hand to be in front of rolling wheels at any time.

8. Do not allow other person to stand in front of or behind the pallet jack when it starts to move.

9. Do not ride on forks or do not allow anyone to ride on forks.

10. Do not move the pallet jack with load too fast. It may be uncontrolable and create danger.

11. Keep watching the condition of the load at any time. If the load inclines or tends to fall, stop operating the pallet jack and reform the load.

12. Do not overload the pallet jack. Stay within the rated capacity. Overload will cause damage on many parts of it and sometimes create unexpected danger.

13. Do not subject to unbalanced load, either side to side or along length of frame.

14. Do not load tips of frame only.

15. Do not allow pallet jack to drop from one level to another. A drop even 1 cm will cause an “impact load” which is more than double the actual load on the pallet jack and can cause considerable damage.

16. Do not allow piston rod or pump piston to be scratched or nicked. This will create oil leakage and decrease seal life.

Warehouse Forklift

2009-02-27T02:08:00.000-08:00

Improving the Efficiency of Your Warehouse Or Shipping and Receiving Department
By Christine O Kelly

A busy warehouse or shipping and receiving department can often be a bottleneck in a production line. It is also an area commonly overlooked. To improve the output of this area, you need to increase the speed and ease with which it operates. Rather than increasing the number of staff members, consider the equipment used in this area. Is it really doing the job it needs to do or is there additional equipment that can make this job more efficient?

Moving Pallets And Loads

The equipment used to move loads around your building and in and out of trucks depends on your set up and the amount of space you have available. A used forklift with a narrow aisle design might be better for moving loads through a warehouse toward a loading dock. You will also be able to use reinforced industrial shelving to store waiting loads vertically, saving valuable space.

If you have no need to raise loads to great heights and only need something to move pallets on and off transport trucks, you may want to consider a pallet jack instead of a used forklift. If you find yourself having to constantly wait on a rental, why not purchase a used forklift? Purchasing the right style of used forklift and accessories may seem like an expense at the start, but the return on investment will be well worth it in the end.

Weighing Loads

Anything shipped by a transport company has to be weighed before it can be loaded. Having to weigh each pallet out by the piece is a long, drawn out process, particularly if everything on the pallet has a different weight. Rather than having staff use a small desktop scale, consider having a scale the size of a standard load installed into the floor. This way, the employee only has to pull the load onto the scale, pull off with the pallet jack or used forklift, and record the weight. You can weigh with the equipment under the load, but be certain it sits in the same place on the scale each time and that the weight of the equipment is subtracted for accuracy.

Securing Products

To prevent damage to the product while traveling, the products need to be secured on the pallet. This often requires some kind of shrink wrap or plastic wrap around the outside. Instead of having the rolls on a handle, consider an automatic shrink wrap machine that spins the pallet and covers the entire load in one step. A strapping machine will prevent boxes from opening up during transport. For larger equipment, consider having stands that hold the straps and clasps all together in one spot so the worker can keep everything together. In addition, consider a custom made stand that holds labels, bills of lading, packing slips, knives, tape, and any other minor equipment needed to get a package wrapped, loaded, and on its way. The fewer steps each person makes, the less time wasted, giving your employees more energy throughout the day.

Whether you run a grocery store in a small town, or a large warehouse with a shipping and receiving department in Illinois, forklift and moving equipment, weighing stations, and even the securing of loads can eat up a lot of time if they are inconvenient. If you find this area doesn't work as efficiently as the rest of your business, carefully examine each task in the area and see where you can make improvements. Even the smallest change can make a huge difference when added up over time.

Forklift Training

2009-02-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

Forklift Training
By Mark Washburn

Forklift safety is a critical concern in companies around the world. No matter what language is spoken, employees must understand the potential hazards and risks of operating this complex piece of machinery, whether made by Toyota, Nissan, or Clark.

Although reputable companies make it a priority to maintain the appropriate certification for operating equipment of this type, it is important also to keep on hand the most up-to-date and comprehensive written rules and policies of industry standards, as monitored by watchdog organizations like OSHA. Every employee who will be operating a forklift should be given a training manual and possibly required to take an operations course that includes information about the company’s safety program.

But sometimes a written policy is inadequate for training employees in the complex balance of functions needed to ensure a safe work environment. Research shows that people learn things in a variety of ways. Some can be taught by using print materials, like a checklist, handbook, or policy manual. Other people learn better through visualization, which is why audio-visual materials are increasingly being used for training purposes in business and industry to help employees develop a secure understanding of their jobs’ mechanical processes and prevent a possible accident from occurring.

Several factors have led to the use of a training video or dvd on many jobsites. Sometimes a warning sign was attached to the forklift cage, but often it became dirty or torn, and even detached from the machine. Another early option was to display pictures of drawings or photographs that showed how the truck and protective gear were to be used. As the need for improved training became better understood, industry supervisors developed a battery of test documents that could check an employee’s progress in learning about forklift safety and applying the rules to the job at hand.

Employees with poor reading skills, along with those who are non-native English speakers, can learn easier by watching a film demonstrating forklift safety than by trying to stumble through words they may be unable to read or fully understand, or by viewing graphic images or photos showing stationary rather than moving action.

Whether black and white, long or short, narrated or acted, a video or dvd can make company training more interesting and effective than ever before. The advent of multi-media tools like these can help to create a safer worksite.

Truck-mounted Forklifts

2009-02-25T02:39:00.000-08:00

The Benefits of Truck-mounted Forklifts
By Thomas Morva

Truck mounted forklifts can make transportation of goods and materials much easier. A truck mounted forklift insures that the truck driver won’t have to waste valuable time waiting for someone to unload the cargo once it is delivered to its destination. Truck mounted forklifts are mounted on the truck during the transportation of the materials. The truck driver just disengages the forklift from the truck, unloads the cargo, reconnects the forklift, and is free to leave.

A company called Moffett-Kooi invented the first truck-mounted forklift in the Netherlands nearly 40 years ago. The early models of truck-mounted forklifts have since evolved into revolutionary tools that save businesses an immeasurable amount of time and money.

It is important that truck drivers have a professional install a truck mounted forklift system to insure it is compatible with the truck. The advent of the truck-mounted forklift revolutionized the trucking industry. Truck drivers gained the ability to unload their cargo themselves, saving them time and money.

The Moffett Mounty is Canada's #1 choice for a portable truck or trailer mounted piggyback forklift. Moffett Mounty truck mounted forklifts are well recognized for their work across the country-delivering product under the toughest of conditions.

Moffett Mounty forklifts are the most flexible portable delivery system on the market. No more waiting for a customer's forklift to unload your truck. The Moffett Mounty truck mounted forklifts are suitable for use on most trucks and trailers and is transported using the unique Moffett shock absorbing mounting kit.

Lightweight forklift designs for maximizing truck loads, short forklift overhang to meet stringent trailer length regulations, hydrostatic all-wheel drive for excellent maneuverability on residential and industrial job sites, and powerful and quiet Kubota diesel engines for strong, reliable work, are just a few standard features you'll find on Moffett Mounty forklift models.

Moffett Mounty truck mounted piggyback forklift models range in lifting capacity from 1500 lbs. up to 8000 lbs.. There are also job-specific models available including multi-directional units for handling long length loads in tight spaces, low profile units for low overhead deliveries, wide frame models for handling wide storage and waste containers, and Pantograph and Lift Assist® models for providing double reach same-side unloading of trucks and trailers.

Above all else, you can be assured of the value investing in a Moffett Mounty truck mounted forklift. Moffett Mounty truck mounted forklifts are well recognized and have the highest re-sale value in the industry.

Moffett Mounty – the best choice for a portable piggyback truck mounted forklifts.

Truck Mounted Forklift Trucks

2009-02-24T01:56:00.000-08:00

Truck Mounted Forklift
By James G. Watson

Truck mounted forklift trucks find vast applications in all major industries today. The usage of these trucks not only transportation of various industrial commodities a lot easier, but also ensures that all of this is done in a very time efficient manner. The truck mounted forklift trucks successfully overcome that hurdle and work in an independent manner.

Truck mounted forklift trucks are essentially a special design of the much used forklift trucks. These truck mounted forklift trucks are ideally lightweight so that they can be easily mounted on various smaller trucks; drop decks, and west coasts. Also, a fundamental part of these mounted forklift truck is the high efficiency Sundstrand drive pump. The fixed leg model of the truck mounted forklift by KESMAC uses the efficient Poclain Hydrostatic Motor. The ergonomic controls make sure that the operator of the truck gets added support for the entire controlling process.

These truck mounted forklift trucks have helped numerous businesses throughout the world to effectively manage their available space. The forklift that is mounted on these trucks is at times secured inside the bed of these trucks. In general, the forklift is connected to the back of the truck. The mounting platform should essentially be at the height at which the forklift remains air borne and freely suspended. The forklift is secured using various chains, hooks, and latches in order to prevent a change in orientation of the forklift. The improvement in the truck mounted forklift trucks has revolutionized the heavy vehicles industry in the true sense.

The Benefits of Truck Mounted Forklift are:

Self-unloading

Being able to mechanically self unload offers advantages:

No waiting to be unloaded
Reduce manual handling
Improved customer service
Reduce product damage
Bulk / Faster deliveries

Independence - Self-unloading is nothing new with truck mounted cranes and tail-lifts both having long histories. A truck-mounted forklift is quite different in that it can be detached from the carrying vehicle, advantages include:

Deliver goods inaccessible to the lorry
Utilize between more than one vehicle
Load / unload in any order; Back Loads

Flexible - A truck-mounted forklift can be used on many different types of vehicle

Curtainsiders; flexibility and back loads
Double deck trailers; increased volume

Reduce costs - For many logistic operations the use of truck-mounted forklift can cut the costs of material handling.

Toyota Forklift

2009-02-22T02:12:00.000-08:00

Toyota Forklift

Toyota, as a manufacturer of forklifts powered by diesel and gasoline engines, recognizes that cleaner exhaust emissions and lower noise levels are of the utmost priority for improving the work environment. Detailed revision of engine designs, focusing on increasing the efficiency of the intake and exhaust system and transmission and engine mounts, has provided the 7 Series with clean emissions, low noise and vibration levels, and energy saving performance to meet the demands of the future.

Toyota 13Z is a 4.6-liter in-line cylinder diesel engine. It has been specifically designed for use in industrial vehicles and features a uniquely shaped combustion chamber and a direct-injection fuel system. The 13Z provides high output while reducing exhaust smoke emissions. The full-floating engine mount design and large muffler help to reduce noise and vibration.

The optional Diesel Particulate Filter DPF-II enhances the ‘black smoke’ particulate elimination capability through use of the improved physical and chemical properties of new filter materials that also prolong filter life (100% Elimination of Diesel Smoke).

Toyota 1FZ engine is a 4.5-liter twin-cam, 24-valve, in-line 6-cylinder gasoline engine that provides high performance. The design of the 1FZ is based on the engine used in the tough-and-rugged Toyota Land Cruiser and has been specially modified for use in industrial vehicle. Once again Toyota technology provides high fuel efficiency and high performance along with excellent reliability. The full-floating engine mount design and large muffler help to reduce noise and vibration.

The drive trains of the 7 Series feature and advanced full-floating design that achieves low levels of noise and vibration. Toyota also offers an optional low-noise model that is equipped with various of noise-reducing components.