John Deere FORKLIFT - catalog of spare parts

A forklift is a powered industrial truck used to lift and move materials over short distances. 

Forklift controls and capabilities forklift hydraulics are controlled either with levers directly manipulating hydraulic valves or electrically controlled actuators, using smaller "finger" levers for control. The latter allows forklift designers more freedom in ergonomic design. Forklifts are available in many options and load capacities. In a typical warehouse installation, most forklifts have load capacities between one and 5 tons. Larger machines of up to 50 tons are used to lift heavier loads, including loaded shipping containers. In addition to controls to raise and lower forks (also known as blades or tines), the operator can tilt the mast to compensate for the load tendency to turn the blades at an angle to the ground and risk slipping forks. The slope also provides limited ability to work on uneven ground. Skilled forklift operators compete annually in hurdles and time challenges at regional forklift rodeos.