Forks Has anyone ever flipped their forks?

[DuckSlayer1017]

I hired a rigging company to set a new production line last week. Every time I watch these guys work I learn another trick. This time they had to pick an electrical panel from the top using slings and shackles. The 10,000 lb fork truck they had didn't go high enough to do it. They lowered the forks on a crate about 3' high, slid them off the mast, flipped them over and put them back on upside down. It gained them about 30" of lift and they were able to pick the panel. I don't know if anyone's fork frames are open on the sides so the forks can slide off but I thought it was a great idea. I need to look at my forks to see if it is possible or if there is something that can be easily modified. It's a good idea to get more lift. Do you guys have forks that can slide off the frame?

 

[RedNeckRacin]

I have the dual purpose forks and bale spear in one QA plate. I take them off and on all the time depending on what I'm doing. Very handy attachment!

 

[Walkin Horse]

Twice in a week I have needed more head room. Last week I set an excercise machine in a truck and had to rig the straps tight. Tonite I was moving a fabricated stall front and the carrage wouldn't clear the door. Mine slide to the middle and lift up to come out. But I'm not sure these will hang up side down. I will check tomorrow when I get home. I need to lift another stall front.

 

[CobyRupert]

Like this?

 

[countrybumpkin]

I've done it a few times with the set I have works pretty good to gain about 20 inches or so with mine.

 

[Ken45101]

I will have to take a look at mine and see if I can do that. It's a good idea that I will have to keep in mind although mine may be too heavy (4000# rating) for me to manhandle.

Thanks for sharing!

Ken

 

[dieselcrawler]

The fork frame I made at work allows fork to slide off and flip over if needed. Never thought of it, but its a good idea when you need it! I'm gonna mention it to my boss this morning.

 

[Walkin Horse]

Here is a picture of hanging the stall front Sent from my iPhone using TractorByNet

 

[Yandaddy1110]

I flip[ my forks over all the time, even stack a few pallets on top of them for even more height.

 

[bigtiller]

It sounds like a good idea for times when you're in a bind. But I wouldn't do it with a heavy load. The forks are engineered for lifting and when turned upside-down, it is forcing them to push.