WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FORKLIFT FORKS
There is a good reason why you must always stay alert to the condition of your forklift truck’s forks. Any malfunction when hauling loads can lead to damage to the forklift, damage or loss of the load, property damage, and even cause injury to the operator and any nearby people. The forks of a forklift can get damaged and thin with use and dragging. Improper use, drum handlers and a range of other forklift attachments and accessories can also lead to the same problems. JOYEAR Forklift offers forklifts for sale and rent as well as used forklift parts and repair and maintenance services to help you keep your forklift in the best shape. Here is a look at how you can inspect your forklift’s forks before contacting any of the Atlanta forklift dealers for any parts or service.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FORKLIFT FORKS
INSPECTING YOUR FORKLIFT
Businesses that operate forklifts are required to get the forks of their trucks inspected yearly and more frequently if they operate longer shifts. You can get new forklift forks to replace your worn or damaged forks from any of the forklift dealers in your area but it’s important to know when to do so. Here are some tips on inspecting your fork truck’s forks.
SURFACE CRACKS
Carefully check each fork for cracks paying attention to the welded areas where the forks attach to the forklift truck as well as the heel which is exposed to wear and damage during dragging. If you notice any cracks, contact any of the reputable forklift dealers for a replacement.
UNEVEN FORKS
Check the height of the blades for any differences. You must replace the forks if the difference is more than 3 percent of the blade.
NORMAL WEAR
Forks decrease in capacity by double the amount of wear which is why you should always measure them periodically. You must use a special fork caliper to measure it for wear. Do this for the heel and blade and replace it if the wear gets to 10 percent.
BLADE AND SHANK DISTORTION
You must also replace the forks of your forklift truck if you notice any bend in the shank or blade.
A WORD OF ADVICE
A great number of forks are damaged or suffer premature wear due to misuse. Make sure to use them only for the work they are intended for and avoid carrying loads that exceed the forks’ capacity. Some of the things that you need to avoid include:
Picking loads that are off-balance
Using forks to close rail car doors
Adding attachments that add stress on the forks
Picking loads that are too far on the forks
Collision with walls or other objects
Always inspect the forks if any of the things mentioned above happen as there may be some damage that exposes your operations and workers to great risk.
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