If you're looking for a powerful tool to elevate your skid steer loader, it's important to learn about skid steer forks and how to choose the right forks for skid steer for your needs. Whether you're a farmer or a warehouse keeper, choosing the right skid steer forks can greatly increase your productivity. So, which skid steer forks are best for your job needs? How can you ensure that you're both safe and efficient in your operation? Read on to uncover all the secrets about skid steer forks!
What Is Skid Steer Forks?
Skid steer forks are typically made up of a fork frame and two sturdy steel arms and are an important attachment for skid steer loaders. They are ideal for lifting and moving heavy objects on a job site or stacking pallets on a job site. Skid steer forks are able to be used on rough and uneven terrain, allowing them to keep working in complex environments. In addition, skid steer forks can be mounted on the front of a skid steer loader, giving it the functionality of a forklift. This also avoids the limited field of view of a traditional forklift. Since skid steer forks can retain the versatility of a skid steer loader and the handling capabilities of a forklift, users do not need to purchase two different devices.
How to Choose the Right Skid Steer Loader Forks?
Choosing the right skid steer loader forks can effectively improve the work efficiency of farmers. Here are some factors to consider when choosing skid steer forks:
Capacity of skid steer loader
This is one of the most indispensable factors when choosing forks for skid steer. Know the load and lifting capacity of the skid steer loader you have. You can determine whether you need a light, standard or heavy-duty attachment. The rule of thumb is to subtract the weight of the frame and pallet forks from the lifting load capacity of the skid steer loader equipment. If you exceed this volume, it will put the operator in danger and damage the pallet forks or equipment.
Class of pallet fork frame
It is also important to know the class of your pallet fork frame. Because it will help you know which pallet forks will work with your frame. There are four common classes of pallet forks and frames: Class 1, 2, 3, and 4. To determine which class you have, simply measure the distance between the top and bottom bracket bars.
Class 1: The height is 13 inches and the lifting capacity is less than 2,200 pounds.
Class 2: 16 inches in height, lifting capacity between 2,200 pounds and 5,500 pounds.
Class 3: 20 inches in height, lifting capacity between 5,500 pounds and 11,000 pounds.
Class 4: 25 inches in height, lifting capacity between 11,000 pounds and 17,600 pounds.
Fork length
Choosing the right fork length depends on the size and weight of the items you need to move. Skid steer loader forks usually have fork lengths between 36 and 72 inches. Longer forks can carry heavier or longer items.
Load capacity
Different skid steer forks have different load capacities. Make sure the forks you choose can handle the maximum load you plan to carry. Overloading the forks can damage the forks for skid steer and make them more likely to be unsafe.
Materials and durability
Skid steer forks are usually made of high-strength steel, which is very durable and wear-resistant. When choosing, consider the environment in which you work on a daily basis.
How to Connect the Forks for Skid Steer?
Connecting a skid steer to a fork attachment is a simple process, but it requires attention to safety and detail.
1. Position the skid steer on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake and fully lower the lift arms.
2. Start the skid steer and carefully align the skid steer's quick-attach plate with the mounting points on the pallet fork attachment. Slowly approach the pallet forks, keeping the attach plate level.
3. Tilt the skid steer's attach plate slightly forward and slowly drive forward until the top edge of the attach plate hooks onto the top bar of the pallet fork frame. Tilt the attach plate back and lift the bottom edge of the attach plate to lock it into the pallet fork attachment.
4. Once the forks are securely attached to the quick-attach plate, engage the locking pins. Verify that both locking pins are fully engaged.
