Maintenance section Fork Inspection First Installation Establish a daily and 12 month inspection routine by keeping a record for the forks on each lift truck. Initial information should include the machine serial number on each the forks are used, the fork manufacturer, type, original section size, original length and capacity. Also list any special characteristics specified in the fork design. Record the date and results of each inspection, making sure the following information is included. Actual wear conditions, such as percent of original blade thickness remaining. 1. Inspect forks to ensure they are the correct size for the truck on which they will be used.
Make sure they are the correct length and type for the loads to be handled. If the forks have been previously used, perform the “12 Month Inspection”. If the forks are rusted, see “Maintenance and Repair”. 2. Make sure fork blades are level to each other within acceptable tolerances. See “Forks, Step 4,” in the “2000 Service Hours or Yearly” in “Maintenance Intervals” 3. Make sure positioning lock is in place and working Lock forks in position before using truck. See “Forks, Step 7”, in the “2000 Service Hours or Yearly” in “Maintenance Intervals” Daily Inspection 1. Visually inspect forks for cracks, especially in the heel section, around the mounting brackets, and all weld areas.
Inspect for broken or jagged fork tips, bent or twisted blades and shanks. 2. Make sure positioning lock is in place and working. Lock the forks in position before using the truck. See “2000 Service Hours or Yearly” in “Maintenance Intervals”. 3. Remove all defective forks from service. Any damage, failure or deformation which might impair the use of the truck. Note any repairs or maintenance. An ongoing record of this information will help in identifying proper inspection intervals for each operation, in identifying and solving problem areas and in anticipating time for replacement of the forks. 94