A Basic Guide to Forklift Parts

If you use a forklift at your warehouse or industrial facility in Texas, you need to know what to do when it comes to keeping this valuable piece of machinery in functional condition. Keep in mind that forklifts are much like cars or any other moving vehicles, and no matter how well you maintain the forklift, all parts and components have an expiration date. If you’re on the hunt for forklift parts for sale, here’s a basic guide to the most important components you might need.

Power supply

These parts can be some of the most expensive when you’re searching for forklift parts for sale in Texas. Your forklift can be powered by propane, gas, diesel or an electric battery. If you have a propane-powered forklift, the power supply will be at the rear of the machine, above the counterweight. Electric forklifts have batteries just below the driver’s seat, and you’ll find fuel tanks at the back of the unit if you have a gas or diesel forklift.

Forks

Forks carry the weight of whatever you’re moving, and they support the load from the bottom. They extend out like arms from the cab and can be purchased in a variety of widths depending on your needs.

Tires

You’ll find two types of tires on a typical forklift. Steer tires are at the back of the forklift, and they aid in maneuvering around corners and move objects while driving in reverse. Drive tires are at the front of the unit, and they stay in a fixed position and never turn.

Overhead guard

The overhead guard on a forklift is meant to protect the operator from heavy objects falling from above. Most overhead guards are grates, so it’s smart to install a piece of metal or clear plastic on top as an extra layer of protection.

Load backrest

Another component that’s made to protect a forklift operator is the load backrest. It keeps the load from falling toward the operator during loading or unloading.

Carriage

This component of a forklift is where the forks attach to the mast, acting as a support mechanism for the machine.

Mast

This part is used for loading and unloading the forklift. Forklifts are equipped with either a single-stage, two-stage or three-stage mast. Three-stage masts are the most common, as they can lengthen the forks to maximum lift height.

Tilt cylinder

The forward or backward tilt of the mast and forks is controlled by the tilt cylinder. It’s made to aid in the process of safe loading and unloading.

Hydraulic lift cylinder

The hydraulic lift cylinder lifts the mast, carriage and forks up and down.

Whether you have a relationship with an in-house forklift repair company or you work with a dealership in Texas, it’s helpful to know about the various forklift parts for sale that will keep your machine in good working condition. Contact V-Bar Equipment Company today to learn more about how we can help you keep your forklift in excellent condition with quality parts and repairs.

Categorised in: Forklift Parts

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