Large Capacity Forklift Myths
Large capacity forklifts are more than just heavier counterweights. Thinking otherwise can lead to increased forklift repairs and a higher risk of accidents.
Myth #1: Big Forklifts Don't Tip Over
You’re not picking up the typical product, wrapped and stacked neatly on a pallet. It’s heavy, long and awkward. This affects your forklift’s load center.
Attachments must also be taken into account when factoring the actual capacity. Keep data tags up-to-date and educate your operators on how to read and understand the information.
Myth #2: Large Capacity Forklifts Can Drive Anywhere
These forklifts are heavy and can crush pavement, dock boards and other surfaces not structured to hold such weight. One particularly dangerous scenario is using a large capacity forklift in a trailer. While the forklift may fit into the trailer, it will collapse the floor. Instruct operators where they can – and cannot – operate the forklift.
Myth #3: The Heavy Duty Forklift Runs On Gas
The majority of large capacity forklifts operate on diesel fuel, but operators may mistakenly fill the tank with gasoline. Compared to a smaller forklift, a large capacity forklift will be quicker and more responsive during operation. Operators should be given hands-on instruction and practice time with the forklift to understand the forklift’s speed.
Myth #4: You Have Room For A Large Capacity Forklift
When selecting equipment for your warehouse, visually inspecting the area and taking measurements is important. A large capacity forklift needs more room to maneuver, especially for its tail swing. When this isn’t taken into account, the operator may hit racking, product or another employee during turns.
Myth #5: Large Capacity Forklift Operators Sit Higher And Can See Pedestrians
A lot of steel is used within the mast of a large capacity forklift which decreases visibility for the operator. The lifted product creates an additional obstruction. Because it’s likely an operator cannot see them, pedestrians working in the warehouse should be especially cautious when a large capacity forklift is operating near their work station.
Myth #6: It's Okay To Use Road Tires On A Heavy Duty Forklift
Air pressure for a large capacity forklift is critical. This means over-the-road tires cannot stand in for replacement forklift tires. For example, the average rating of a semi-truck tire is 14 ply as compared to a forklift tire at 18-24 ply. Because it can’t offer the same support to the forklift and the load, this overloading will lead to tire failure.
Myth #7: Anyone Can Operate A Large Capacity Forklift
Proper and safe operation plays a critical role in the maintenance of large capacity forklifts. Just like smaller forklifts, overloading can strain mast chains, causing fork drag and wear. However, replacement parts for large capacity forklifts come at a higher cost and can quickly drain your annual maintenance budget. To avoid these issues, it’s essential to train operators thoroughly and regularly monitor their adherence to safety guidelines.
ProLift is your source for Toyota Forklifts, a leader in large capacity forklifts. Contact our sales consultants for a quote.
