ATTACHMENTSAttachments give forklifts versatility that allowthem to do more work efficiently; however, you mustremember that the attachment may reduce the capacityof the forklift by changing the center of gravity of theload.Fork ExtensionsForklift extensions that are known by the term tine(fork) extender are designed in two configurations:bare tine extender (fig. 8-10) and rollerized tineextenders (fig. 8-11).An extender provides additional length to theforklift tines that permits an easier way to loadtractor-trailers and Air Force 463-L pallets. Theextender moves the center of gravity of the load, and thisrestricts the weight that can be lifted. You mustremember these restrictions when using the extensionsto handle large or bulky loads. The lift-king forklift hasFigure 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 AttachmentThe crane boom attachment converts the forklift toa mobile crane jib capable of handling bulky, irregularlyshaped objects and is a valuable aid in maintenancework (fig. 8-12). The crane boom is raised or loweredwith the standard lift mechanism.Drum-Handling AttachmentA drum-handling attachment can handle filled55-gallon drums by means of a forklift truck. Threetypes of drum-handling attachments are shown in figure8-13.The first consists of a series of specially shaped andspaced forks that cradle the drums to be handled (fig.8-13, view A). This attachment handles three filleddrums at one time.The second type is mounted on the forks of theforklift and consists of side rails from which speciallydesigned hooks are suspended at the front and rear (fig.8-13, view B). The attachment is lowered over thedrums until the hooks drop into position over the drumrims. This attachment can handle two filled drums atone time.The third type is vertically operated and handles onefilled drum at one time (fig. 8-13, view C).PRINCIPLES OF OPERATIONForklifts operate on the simple principle of afulcrum or like a playground teeter-totter. A unit loadFigure 8-11.—Rollerized tine extenders.8-6
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