FAQs Forklift Extensions

There are a plethora of accessory attachments that can be used to expand the capability

of a forklift. They include forks; drum grabbers, booms, work platforms, loading platforms, sweepers, hoppers, and more. These attachments permit the operator of a forklift to perform all sorts of work tasks making it one of the most efficient machines on the planet.

What follows are some frequently asked questions concerning forklift attachments. It is hoped that the answers will enlighten you as to the practicality of using these work tools.

Q: What is a forklift extension?
A: Forklift extensions are tools that are meant to expand the capability of a forklift including

assisting it to left and manage large objects or perform other tasks that a forklift without the extension will be able to achieve.

Q: What are extensions made of?
A: Many of them are made of welded steel and used cast steel tips. They commonly feature pockets that the forks of the forklift can fit into in order to attach the tool securely to the forklift. Many of these tools also require the use of steel retaining straps to connect them securely to the forklift so that the tool does not fall off.

Q: What are considered to be forklift extensions?
A: Forks can be considered a forklift extension. There are two types of forklift forks –- the

hook type and the pin type. The hook type fork bends into a hook that locks into the bars of the fork carriage. Upper and lower hooks slide into the end of the carriage bars to install the fork. Alternatively, special fork loading notch is provided in the center of the lower carriage-mounting bar to hook the fork. A hook type fork is usually deployed in trucks with load lifting capacity of up to 14,000 pounds. The pin or shaft-mount type of fork attach to the forklift carriage with the help of a fork pin or shaft. There is an eye on the top of the fork that the pin slides through. This pin fastens the fork to the fork carriage. The pin type of fork is usually deployed on trucks expected to carry very large loading capacity. Fork sizes have been standardized and have been assigned specific ratings based on their thickness and width. The rating is commonly stamped on the shank of the fork. When a forklift operator or forklift fleet manager replaces an old fork with a new one, he must be certain that the new fork has the same load rating has the fork being replaced.

Q: What other items are considered to be forklift extensions?

A: Items that are considered to be forklift attachments include:
· Hoppers
· Forks
· Booms
· Work Platforms
· Loading Platforms
· Drum Attachments
· Carpet Poles & Coil Rams
· Mounted Sweepers
· Pallet Dumper Retainer Attachment
· Forklift Tow and Hook Attachment Base
· Hook Plates-Swivel Hook
· Hook Plates – Rigid Hook
· Hook Plates
· Swivel Hook Plates

· Rigid Hook Plates
· Mounted Front Loader