Lift trucks, more commonly known as forklifts, are popular around many industrial plants. However, these trucks can be seen in many other places, such as grocery stores, because of how good they are at lifting and hauling things around. Lift trucks come in many different styles and motor types, but all are used for the same purpose. So, when you have questions about forklift replacements, look no further. Here we will discuss all you need to know about lift truck fork replacement.
How do I inspect my lift truck forks?
Before replacing any parts, you should always do a thorough inspection. Inspections can include:
- Checking the blade for shank angle
- Ensuring the straightness of the blade and the shank
- Inspect forks for surface cracks
- Check the fork tip height
- Inspect the positioning lock
- Use calipers to inspect thickness
- Check for hooks
This comprehensive list will tell you where action needs to be taken. If everything checks out, you should be good to go. If not, it may be time for a replacement.
When should lift truck forks be replaced?
There are times that, after the inspection, you may find that you need to replace the forks. How do you know? One of the best ways to determine if it is time is to check the forklift tip height. If the difference between the height of each tip exceeds three percent of the length of the blade, it is time for a replacement. For example, if the blades are 48 inches long, the height difference cannot exceed 1.44 inches.
Can lift truck forks be repaired?
If the forks don’t seem to be in bad condition, they may not need to be replaced but instead repaired. There are a few things to keep in mind to fix these lift truck forks. First and foremost, you must receive permission from the manufacturer. This permission is a rule put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as an official requirement to repair the forks. So in all, lift truck forks can be fixed. You just have to ensure you get the proper approval.
How can lift truck fork damage be prevented?
There are times that lift truck forks need to be replaced, just as there are times they need to be repaired, but you can do things to prevent needing either of these choices for a while. Preventing damage is vital to ensure your forklift lasts and can handle the job at hand. The first way you can avoid fork damage is to exclusively use the forks for lifting. These forks are nothing to mess around with and should only be used for their intended purpose to avoid damage and dangerous situations. Never use the forks to push or pry products as it could cause them damage.
Next, be sure not to exceed the maximum weight capacity. When this weight capacity is ignored, it could mean harm will come to the forklift or the forks themselves. Finally, be sure that you ease the forks to the ground at a smooth, moderate speed when using the lift truck forks. Bringing a load down too forcefully can cause damage to the forks while bringing down a load too fast could potentially cause damage to the floor.
Keep your forklift in good shape to prevent replacement.
Follow the guidelines for inspecting your forklift to ensure it is continually operating at its best and to ensure you get the maximum life out of your forklift. Sometimes there will be repairs and replacements, but as long as you are careful in operating your forklift, it will be in good standing for years to come.
