Forklift certification Load Handling and Stability Flashcards
7 cards from real Forklift certification Certification practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Forklift certification Load Handling and Stability flashcards as text
What is the 'stability triangle' on a counterbalanced forklift?
Answer: The area formed by the two front wheels and the center of the rear axle
The stability triangle connects the two front wheels and the pivot point of the rear axle, and the combined center of gravity must stay inside it.
As you raise a load to full height, what happens to the truck's lateral stability?
Answer: It decreases because the center of gravity rises
Raising a load lifts the combined center of gravity, making the truck more likely to tip sideways.
Why should a load be carried tilted slightly back and low to the ground?
Answer: To keep the center of gravity low and cradle the load
Tilting back and carrying low keeps the center of gravity low and secures the load against the backrest.
What happens to the forklift's maximum capacity when the load center distance increases beyond the rated value?
Answer: The safe capacity decreases
A load center farther from the mast increases the tipping moment, so the truck can safely lift less weight.
The standard load center used on most forklift data plates is measured at what distance?
Answer: 24 inches
Most rated capacities assume a 24-inch load center, meaning the center of gravity is 24 inches from the face of the forks.
When traveling with a load on an incline, which direction should the forks point?
Answer: Upgrade (load points uphill)
Keeping the load pointed uphill prevents it from sliding off the forks and keeps the truck stable.
What is the primary purpose of the counterweight at the rear of the forklift?
Answer: To offset the weight of the load and keep the truck balanced
The counterweight balances the load on the forks so the truck does not tip forward.