There are many different forklift parts to keep track of. Plus, with so many different forklift types available, not all forklift components are a part of every machine.
If you’re new to material handling equipment, trying to understand how everything works with unfamiliar terminology can be difficult. Industrial Forklift Truck is here to help! We’ll go over common forklift parts and terms to help you get a handle on your equipment.
Then, we’ll help you find great prices on forklift parts, forklift servicing, and forklift repair. Let’s get started!
Forklift Parts
In this guide, we’ll cover the forklift components of a standard counterbalance model. All the forklift parts discussed are labeled on the diagram below.
- Cab
The cab is where the operator sits. This area includes important forklift components like the steering wheel, pedals, controls, and safety devices.
Related lifts truck parts include the overhead guard, located above the cab to protect the operator.
- Carriage
The carriage is where the forks are mounted. This support platform makes it easy to add attachments. There are multiple carriage classes, each offering its own height and lift capacity.
- Mast
Of all the forklift components, the mast is arguably the most important. It is responsible for raising and lowering the forks and load. Learn about different forklift mast types here.
The load backrest is another important forklift part that works in conjunction with the mast to prevent the load from falling backward into the cab.
- Forks
Forklift forks are attached to the carriage. They lift and carry palletized loads. Other attachments can handle oddly-shaped loads. These forklift parts support the majority of the load weight, so fork maintenance is especially important. Remove your equipment from service and perform a forklift repair if your forks bend.
- Tires
Forklifts have either pneumatic or cushion tires. Pneumatic tires are air-filled with deep treads for outdoor use. Cushion tires are solid and smooth, perfect for indoor facilities.
If your tires require forklift repair, read this blog on how to change forklift tires.
- Counterweight
Counterbalance forklifts have a counterweight at the rear. This prevents them from tipping forward from the weight of the load.
- Power Supply
Different models run on different fuel types, each requiring unique lift truck parts. For instance, electric forklifts have a battery. Propane forklifts have a propane tank. Gas and diesel forklifts have a fuel tank.
Forklift Terms
Professionals and industry leaders use specific forklift terms in conjunction with forklift parts. Learn more about them below.
- Capacity
A forklift’s capacity determines the amount of weight it can lift at a specific load height and load center. Capacity will vary depending on the model and equipment type.
- Lift Height
A forklift’s lift height indicates the height its forks can reach when the mast is fully extended.
- Free Lift
Free lift refers to the equipment’s ability to lift its forks without raising the mast. Only certain mast types offer free lift and the amount of free lift available varies between each type.
- Data Plate
A data plate is a metal tag stamped onto the equipment by a manufacturer. It contains important information like model number, serial number, load capacity, and lift height. There are many different forklift terms for this plate including rating plate, capacity data plate, and nameplate.
- Tynes
“Tyne” is another word for “fork”. You can use these two forklift terms interchangeably.
Forklift Servicing & Repair
Understanding common forklift terms and knowing about important lift truck parts is great, but what happens when something goes wrong? Routine forklift servicing is critical to your success. Keep your parts in great condition to avoid unnecessary accidents and injuries.
We recommend regular forklift servicing every 200 hours of operation. Have a professional check your equipment for any issues. Change your oil and change your tires if needed.
Keep in mind that OSHA requires a general pre-operational inspection every day before use. This inspection will give you the chance to check important forklift components and catch small issues before they become major ones.
Not sure what a reasonable price is for forklift repair? Use Industrial Forklift Truck to compare your options. Get free price quotes from professional forklift servicing companies in your area. Check out each of your options before you choose. Click here to get started.
Rather fix it yourself? Check out our extensive inventory of lift truck parts. Save some money on forklift repair with a DIY. Compare pricing on lift truck parts today.
Is your equipment beyond the point of repair? It might be time to purchase new or used equipment. If this is the case, use Industrial Forklift Truck to compare pricing and information on equipment before you commit. Browse inventory from top dealers near you.
No matter what you need, Industrial Forklift Truck has you covered. Use our free price comparison tool today.