The Different Types of Caterpillar Forks and Their Uses
If you own a Caterpillar skid steer loader, you already know you have a great machine that can be used for many different tasks. This loader can be used for much more if you purchase any of the four different forks Caterpillar has made for the skid steer loader. The versatility these forks give your Caterpillar makes it easy to see why they’re a good investment. They are aimed primarily at those who work on construction sites, industrial sites, farms, and ranches, but many others may find Caterpillar loaders and forks useful.
Caterpillar currently has four different skid steer loader forks:
Industrial Grapple Fork
These industrial grapple forks feature a row of teeth along the bottom and two sets of grasping claws on the top. They are perfect for picking up materials (both bound and loose) and moving them across even the roughest terrain. The two claws securely hold the material in place, while the teeth provide support or can be used to pierce and lift bundles. This fork can be used to move building supplies, scrap, or even trees and rocks. Each claw can be controlled separately, letting you lift awkwardly shaped items. The industrial grapple fork comes in two different models. One measures 66 inches long, while the other is 72 inches long. They are compatible with all of Caterpillar forks skid steer loaders and compact track/multi-terrain loaders.
Pallet Fork
The pallet fork is Caterpillar’s basic lifting attachment. It comes in three different models: the 910 (36 inch forks), the 1070 (42 inch forks), and the 1220 (48 inch forks). Pallet forks can be used to lift any type of palletized materials, but they can also be used to move stacks of building materials, large bags of sand or fertilizer, large crates, and more. The forks can easily be moved inward or outward as needed due to the notches in the carriage. Once set, they are locked into place so there’s no risk of a fork coming loose during movement. The backrest is made from highly durable material, but the upper middle section is done in a grid so it can be seen through. This allows the operator to keep an eye on loads during transport. Like the industrial grapple fork, the pallet fork is compatible with all models of skid steer loaders and compact track/multi-terrain loaders.
Utility Fork
Caterpillar’s utility fork is a handy tool that can be used to move a variety of different materials, both bound and loose. It’s long teeth slip beneath the materials, then lift upwards, letting the bottom of the teeth and back of the fork to support the materials. It can be used for moving light materials, including small bales of hay, recyclables, scrap, and even paper, plus it can be used to loosen soil. It comes in two models, a 66-inch version and a 72-inch version. Note that certain models of the utility fork are NOT compatible with all skid steer loaders, so be certain to check your particular loader model before purchasing a utility fork.
Utility Grapple Fork
The utility grapple fork is similar to the utility fork, but it adds two grapplers to the top of the assembly. These grapplers are controlled from the cab and can be used to grasp light, difficult to carry objects, including loose objects and objects that are oddly sized. The grapplers open widely to allow the fork to carry objects that are fairly large. The teeth at the bottom provide support for the objects, but they are not designed to pierce large bales of hay or other grass. Like the utility fork, you can purchase either a 66-inch long grapple fork or a 72-inch long model. Also like the utility fork, the utility grapple fork is not compatible with every model of skid steer loader.
All four of these forks can be useful and add versatility to your Caterpillar skid steer loader. They are designed to be easily swapped in and out, so you can quickly change to the correct fork as needed without a lot of time spent on the swap. Because almost all models are compatible with Caterpillar’s skid steer loaders and their compact track/multi-terrain loaders, you may be able to use the same fork on a number of machines, including Caterpillar machines you purchase in the future.
Everything you need to know about Caterpillar’s skid steer loaders can be found on the official Caterpillar website. You can also find parts for your loader and its forks, learn where to get your machines serviced, and even look into renting a Caterpillar and various forks in your area.
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