Fork Extensions

Forklift extensions that are known by the term tine (fork) extender are designed in two configurations: bare tine extender (fig. 8-10) and rollerized tine extenders (fig. 8-11).

An extender provides additional length to the forklift tines that permits an easier way to load tractor-trailers and Air Force 463-L pallets. The extender moves the center of gravity of the load, and this restricts the weight that can be lifted. You must remember these restrictions when using the extensions to handle large or bulky loads. The lift-king forklift has

Figure 8-10.-Bare tine extender.

a set of roller tine extensions assigned as an attachment. The roller tines are used when handling 463-L pallets.

Crane Boom Attachment

The crane boom attachment converts the forklift to a mobile crane jib capable of handling bulky, irregularly shaped objects and is a valuable aid in maintenance work (fig. 8-12). The crane boom is raised or lowered with the standard lift mechanism.

Drum-Handling Attachment

A drum-handling attachment can handle filled 55-gallon drums by means of a forklift truck. Three types of drum-handling attachments are shown in figure 8-13.

The first consists of a series of specially shaped and spaced forks that cradle the drums to be handled (fig. 8-13, view A). This attachment handles three filled drums at one time.

The second type is mounted on the forks of the forklift and consists of side rails from which specially designed hooks are suspended at the front and rear (fig. 8-13, view B). The attachment is lowered over the drums until the hooks drop into position over the drum rims. This attachment can handle two filled drums at one time.

The third type is vertically operated and handles one filled drum at one time (fig. 8-13, view C).

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

Forklifts operate on the simple principle of a fulcrum or like a playground teeter-totter. A unit load

Figure ^{8-11 .} -Rollerized tine extenders.

Figure 8-12.-Crane boom attached to the forklift.

Figure 8-13.-Drum-handllng attachments.

on the forks must be counterbalanced by the counterweight and weight of the forklift. The fulcrum, or pivot, is the drive axle.

A forklift must be physically small and compact to work in confined areas, such as boxcars, container vans, and narrow aisles. Additionally, the forklift must offer enough working space for both the operator and maintenance personnel. It must handle maximum loads and stack them safely and still have an upright, minimum load, and collapsed height to maneuver in

Figure 8-14.-Technical terms used in forklift operations.

areas with low-overhead clearance. It must be able to negotiate inclines, either empty or loaded. Technical terms associated with forklift operations are explained in figure 8-14.