Avantco A21047 User manual

Pallet Forks 2016 1
Operator's Manual for Attachment
Pallet Forks
Product number
800 mm
A21047
1100 mm HD
A21039
1200 mm XHD
A36589
Back frame (option)
A36346
English
www.avanttecno.com

Pallet Forks 2016 1

Pallet Forks 2016 1
CONTENTS
1. FOREWORD ........................................................................................................................................ 4
2. DESIGNED PURPOSE OF USE.......................................................................................................... 5
3. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PALLET FORKS................................................................... 6
4. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................... 9
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment ....................................................................................9
5. ASSEMBLING THE PALLET FORKS ................................................................................................ 11
5.1 Assembling the pallet forks......................................................................................................................................11
5.2 Attaching pallet forks to loader..............................................................................................................................13
6. WORKING WITH PALLET FORKS .................................................................................................. 15
6.1 Checks before use .....................................................................................................................................................16
6.2 Using the pallet forks ................................................................................................................................................16
6.3 Adjusting the forks.....................................................................................................................................................17
6.4 Safe working load .......................................................................................................................................................17
6.5 Operating on inclined terrain..................................................................................................................................19
6.5.1 Operation with the tilt adapter......................................................................................................................19
7. CLEANING, LUBRICATING & INSPECTIONS............................................................................... 20
8. WARRANTY TERMS .......................................................................................................................... 20

4 (22)
1. Foreword
Avant Tecno Oy would like to thank you for your purchase of this attachment for your Avant loader. It has
been designed and manufactured on the basis of years of experience on product development and
manufacturing. By familiarising yourself with this manual and following the instructions, you ascertain your
safety and ensure the reliable operation and long service life of the equipment. Read the instructions carefully
before starting to use the equipment or performing maintenance.
The purpose of this manual is to help you to:
operate the equipment in a safe and efficient manner
observe and prevent any hazardous situations
keep the equipment intact and ensure a long service life
The following warning symbols are used throughout this manual to indicate factors that must be taken into
account to reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to property:
WARNING:
This safety symbol refers to important safety information in this manual.
It warns of an immediate hazard that could cause serious personal
injury.
Read the warning text accompanying the symbol carefully and ensure
that other operators are also familiar with the warnings, since personal
safety is at stake.
This signal word indicates information about the correct operation and maintenance
of the equipment.
Failure to observe the instructions accompanying the symbol can lead to equipment
breakdown or other property damage.
With these instructions, even an inexperienced user can use the attachment and loader safely. The manual
includes important instructions for experienced AVANT operators as well. Ensure that all persons using the
loader have received proper guidance and familiarised themselves with the manual of the loader, each
attachment that are used, and all safety instructions before using the equipment. Using the equipment for
other purposes or use in any other way than described in this manual is prohibited. Keep this manual at hand
throughout the service life of the equipment. If you sell or transfer the equipment, be sure to hand over this
manual to the new owner. If the manual is lost or damaged, you can request a new one from your Avant
dealer or from the manufacturer. Due to continuous product development some of the details shown in this
manual may differ from your equipment. This manual contains the original instructions in English.
In addition to the safety instructions included in this manual, you must observe all occupational safety
regulations, local laws, and other regulations concerning the use of the equipment. Particularly the regulations
concerning the use of the equipment on public road areas must be observed. We reserve the right to change
the contents of the manual without notification.

5 (22)
2. Designed purpose of use
The AVANT pallet forks are attachments that are designed and manufactured to be suitable for use with
AVANT multi purpose loaders as shown in Table 1. The pallet fork is an excellent tool for handling standard
sized pallets. With the fork side shift mechanism, different pallet sizes can be transported easily. A load
backrest extension is also available, which should be used when handling loose materials that could fall from
a pallet. If lifting and load handling tasks are frequent, equipping the loader with the boom self levelling will
make repeated lifting tasks easier.
Pallet fork is an useful attachment all year round for example on construction sites, farms, and especially at
outdoor material handling jobs, where conventional fork-lift trucks are impracticable. When operating with the
pallet forks, the performance and stability limits of the loader must be observed, especially when working on
inclined terrains. The pallet forks must not be used for lifting persons and it is prohibited to use the pallet forks
to lift any kind of access platform.
When lifting other material than pallets, the Log Grab attachment (A34822 or A33503), that can be fitted to the
pallet fork, is recommended. The log grab accessory makes it easy to handle single logs, smaller timber
bundles, fence poles, or similar material. The log grab is also suited for easy handling of tree branches and
bunches of twigs and also for moving large rocks. The handling of pallets is possible even if the log grab is
attached on the pallet forks, but the grapple limits the maximum height of the pallet.
The pallet forks should be cleaned and checked regularly, and painted when needed. All repairs must be left
for professional service. Please contact your AVANT retailer if you have additional questions about the
operation or maintenance of the equipment, or if you require spare parts or maintenance services.
Table 1 - Pallet Forks - Compatibility with Avant loaders
Avant
216
218
220
220 series 2
225
313S
320S
320S+
419
420
520
R20
525LPG
R28
528
630
R35
635
640
745
750
760
A21039
850 mm
-






A21047
1100 mm HD
-
-





A36589
1200 mm XHD
-
-
-




Models marked with () may be too heavy for smaller loader models. Additional counterweights may also be
required. If using small forks on larger loader models, the forks may get damaged. Choose forks that match
the lifting capacity of the loader.
The compatibility recommendations are based on the width of the loader, lifting capacity, and adequate
breakout force. The operating capacity of the loader can be determined by using Table 5 and the load diagram
shown in the operator's manual of the loader. Depending on operating conditions additional counterweights
may also be required. For compatibility information with a model not shown in table above, contact your Avant
dealer.

6 (22)
3. Safety instructions for the pallet forks
Please bear in mind that safety is the result of several factors. The loader-attachment combination is highly
powerful and improper or careless use or maintenance may cause serious personal injury or property
damage. Due to this, all operators must carefully familiarise themselves about correct use and the operator's
manuals of both the loader and the attachment before starting operation. Do not use the attachment if you
have not completely familiarised yourself with its operation and the related hazards.
Misuse, careless use, or using an attachment that is in poor condition, may cause
risk of serious injuries. Familiarise yourself with the controls of the loader, correct
coupling procedure, and the correct way to operate the attachment at a safe area.
Study especially how to stop the equipment in a safe manner. Read all safety
precautions carefully.
Read all safety instructions carefully before handling the attachment
When attaching an attachment to the loader, ensure that the locking pins of the
loader's quick attach plate are in the lower position and that they have locked
the attachment to the loader. Never lift or move an unlocked attachment.
The Pallet Forks is designed to be used by one operator at a time. Do not let others
near the danger area of the equipment when it is in use.
Always transport the attachment as low as possible to keep the centre of gravity low,
and keep the telescopic boom retracted during driving.
Keep the forks at as wide setting as possible.
Lift loads slowly and monitor the position of the forks, so that the load will not fall off.
Use the pallet fork only to handle pallets. Handling other objects or materials may
cause the material to fall easily.
Fit the rear guard to the forks whenever possible.
Never use the attachment to lift or to transport persons or as any kind of work platform
even temporarily.
Pay attention to the surroundings and any other persons and machines moving in the
vicinity. Pay attention to the contours of the terrain and other hazards, such as
branches and trees that can reach to the driver's area, loose rocks, and slippery
surfaces.
Make sure that overhead clearance is sufficient. Hitting an overhead obstacle may
cause the loader to tip over. Keep a safe distance from electric cables, lamps, or other
electric systems; hitting live parts may cause electric shock.
Ensure that ventilation is sufficient when operating indoors. Do not operate the loader
in closed spaces regardless of the engine or fuel type. Exhaust gases may
concentrate to hazardous levels.

7 (22)
Operate the controls of the loader in a slow and calm manner. Be careful when lifting
load to high level or lifting load from high. Avoid sudden changes in speed or
direction to maintain balance of the loader especially when handling heavy loads.
Drive slowly and carefully especially on inclined terrain or slippery surfaces.
Carrying heavy loads can shift the centre of gravity of the loader and lead to tipping
over of the loader. Always transport the load as low and close to the machine as
possible with the telescopic boom completely retracted to keep the centre of gravity
low and for the best stability.
The stability of the loader may change when leaving the driver’s seat, leading to
tipping over of the machine. Always remember that the boom may lower
unexpectedly due to loss of stability, mechanical fault, or if another person operates
the controls of the loader, leading to crushing hazard. The attachment or the loader
are not intended to be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods. Lower the
attachment before leaving the driver's seat.
Keep the loader articulation in straight position when handling heavy loads. When
turning the articulation, the loader may tilt forward.
Observe maximum load indicated in the operator’s manual of the loader. Be
especially careful when the load sensor indicator is activated.
Make sure that the surface can bear the total load. Also follow the correct tyre
pressure settings.
Make sure to use only an attachment that is in good condition. Check the attachment
thoroughly in regular intervals. Do not modify the attachment in a manner that would
affect its safety. It is prohibited to drill holes on the attachment, and welding or other
means of fixing hooks or other objects on the attachment is strictly prohibited.
Use the attachment only for its intended purpose. Other use may create unnecessary
safety risks, and the equipment may get damaged.
Make sure that the loader is equipped with necessary safety components, and that
they are in working condition. Seat belt must be used. If there are specific hazards
related to the operating area, use appropriate safety equipment.
Also read the safety instructions and correct use of the loader from the operator's
manual of the loader.
Never allow anyone to get under the raised load or the loader boom. Keep in mind that the
loader boom can be lowered or tilted even if the engine has been shut down (crushing
hazard). The loader is not intended to be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods.
Always lower the attachment to a safe position before leaving the driver's seat.

8 (22)
.
Remember to wear proper protective clothing:
The noise level at the driver's seat may exceed 85 dB(A). Wear hearing
protection while working with the loader.
Wear protective gloves.
Wear safety boots whenever working with the loader.
Safe position of the attachment, before going near the loader boom
Always set the attachment to a safe position before going near the attachment. Safe
position will prevent unintentional movements of the attachment and the loader boom.
Keep in mind that the attachment can move even if the engine of the loader is turned
off. Safe position:
Lower the boom completely down and lower the attachment flat on the ground.
Shut down the loader engine and lock the parking brake. Prevent unintended use.

9 (22)
4. Technical specifications
Table 2 –Pallet forks - Specifications
Product number
A21047
A21039
A36589
Fork length:
850 mm
1 100 mm
1 200 mm
Fork arm type and width:
Forged steel, 80 mm
Forged steel, 100 mm
Forged steel, 100 mm
Weigh of pallet forks
(assembly):
90 kg
115 kg
140 kg
Fork arm separation:
34-690 mm
Maximum technical load and
loading point:
1000 kg, 420 mm
1200 kg, 420 mm
1800 kg, 500 mm
Maximum load when operated
with loader:
See Chapter 6.3 and the operator's manual of the loader
Log grab accessory (option):
A33503
Back frame (option):
A36346, 21 kg
Suitable AVANT loader:
See Table 1
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment
Listed below are the labels and markings, which must be visible on the equipment. Replace the warning
labels, if they have become unclear or if they have detached completely. New labels are available via your
retailer or contact information provided on the cover.
The warning labels contain important safety information and they help to identify and
remember the hazards related to the equipment. Replace damaged or missing
warning labels with new ones.
Attachment identification plate
A46771
A46772

10 (22)
Table 3 - Decal locations and warning messages
Decal
Warning message
1
A46771
Read instructions before use.
2
A46772
Crushing hazard - Do not go under a
raised attachment; stay away from
raised equipment.
3
Attachment identification plate
Table 4 - Main components of the Pallet Forks
1
Frame with Avant quick attach brackets
2
Fork arm 850 / 1100 / 1200 mm
3
Arm locking
4
End stopper bolts or bolt on back frame/guard fitting
bolts
5
Bolt on back frame (option)

11 (22)
5. Assembling the Pallet Forks
The pallet forks may be delivered unassembled for easier transport. The pallet forks can be easily assembled
by following the instructions below; tools are required only to tighten the bolts which lock the backrest
extension and the forks on the frame.
To install the optional log grab accessory or other accessories to the pallet forks, follow instructions given in
separate manuals of the accessories.
5.1 Assembling the pallet forks
1. Fit and lock frame to the loader
To make the assembling of the forks easier, first
attach and lock the pallet fork frame on the loader
quick attach plate.
Attaching the frame can be done manually or by
placing the frame plate on suitable position, so
that it can be coupled with the loader, as
described in the next chapter.
Note that the components are heavy, remember
healthy working habits.
1. Fit and lock the pallet fork frame to the loader
Make sure that the frame is locked to the loader. See following chapter.
2. Fit fork arms
After the frame plate is attached on the loader,
you can slide the forks to the frame. Drive the
loader next to the forks and tilt the loader front
plate in upright position, and set the boom height
so that the forks can be fitted.
Note the locking mechanism on top of the fork; it
should be turned into its upright position while
mounting the forks.
2. Slide fork arms to the frame
Make sure that also the lower bracket is fixed
onto the frame.

12 (22)
3. Fit back frame or retaining bolts
Fitting the back frame:
Fit the back frame with two screws at both ends
of its frame.
3A. Install back frame
If the backrest extension will not be fitted:
The two screws delivered with the pallet forks
must be fastened to the holes at both ends of the
frame.
The screws prevent the forks from accidentally
sliding off from the frame. Make sure to fit and
tighten the bolts adequately.
3B. Fork arm retainer bolts

13 (22)
.
5.2 Attaching pallet forks to loader
Attaching the attachment to the loader is quick and easy, but it must be done carefully. The attachment is
mounted to the loader boom by using the quick attach plate on the loader boom and the counterpart on the
attachment.
If the attachment is not locked to the loader, it may detach from the loader and cause a hazardous situation.
The loader must not be driven and the boom must never be lifted when the attachment has not been locked.
To prevent hazardous situations, always follow the coupling procedure shown below. Also remember the
safety instructions shown in this manual. The attachment is mounted to the loader as follows:
Make sure that an unlocked attachment will not move or fall over. Do not stay in the
area between the attachment and the loader. Mount the attachment only on level
surface.
Never move or lift an attachment that has not been locked.
Avant quick coupling system:
Step 1:
Lift the quick attach plate locking pins up and turn them backwards into the slot
so that they are locked in the upper position.
If your loader is equipped with a hydraulic attachment locking system, see
additional instructions about the use of the locking system from the relevant
manuals.
Ensure that the hydraulic hoses (and the electric harness, if applicable) are not
in the way during installation.
Step 2:
Turn the quick attach plate hydraulically to an obliquely forward position.
Drive the loader onto the attachment. If your loader is equipped with a
telescopic boom, you can utilise this.
Align the upper pins of the loader’s quick coupling plate so that they are under
the corresponding brackets of the attachment.
Step 3:
Lift the boom slightly –pull the boom control lever backward to raise the
attachment off the ground.
Turn the boom control lever left to turn the bottom section of the quick attach
plate onto the attachment.
Lock the locking pins manually or lock the hydraulic locking.
Always check the locking of pins.

14 (22)
An attachment that has not been completely
locked to the loader may fall on the boom or
towards the operator, or fall under the loader
during driving, causing loss of control of the
loader. Never move or lift an attachment that
has not been locked. Before moving or lifting
the attachment, make sure that the locking
pins are in the lower position and come
through the fasteners on the attachment on
both sides.
Excessive tilting or lifting of an unlocked attachment increases the risk of tipping the
attachment over. Do not use the automatic locking of the locking pins when the
attachment is lifted more than one meter from the ground. If the locking pins do not
return to the normal position when tilting, do not tilt or raise the attachment any
more. Lower the attachment on the ground and secure the locking manually.

15 (22)
6. Working with pallet forks
Check the attachment and the operating environment once more before starting to work, and that all obstacles
have been removed from the operating area. Quick inspection of the equipment and the operating area before
use are parts of ensuring safety and the best performance of the equipment.
Avoid overturning of the machine. Do not extend the
telescopic boom, when the load approaches the lifting
capacity of the loader, or when the loader boom is in
horizontal position. If the load indicator of the loader (if
fitted) signals, lower the load calmly and retract the
telescopic boom. Avoid sudden changes in speed or
direction whenever the load is lifted. Use additional
counterweights as needed.
Make sure load is securely on the attachment. Never tilt
the attachment back when it is lifted high. Operate only
with machines equipped with ROPS and FOPS
structures.
Never use the loader or its attachments to lift persons or
as any kind of work platform even temporarily. Never
climb on the attachment.

16 (22)
.
6.1 Checks before use
Check the general condition of the attachment and the loader. The attachment must not be used, if it
and the loader are not in good working condition. Refer to Chapter 7 for maintenance instructions.
Remove all obstacles from the operating area and prepare lifted pallets beforehand. Remember
correct working methods and avoid leaving the driver’s seat unnecessarily.
Check that the pallets that are going to be moved are in good condition.
Check that the forks are fixed correctly on the frame and that the side shift of the forks is set correctly.
Ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance when operating the equipment. Do not let anyone to
enter danger area of the boom or to stay directly in front of the loader. Also make sure that it is safe to
reverse with the loader.
Use the load backrest extension whenever possible.
Operate the attachment and the controls of the loader only when seated on the driver’s seat.
Ensure that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended.
Do not use the pallet forks to lift persons or as any kind of access platform.
6.2 Using the pallet forks
Keep in mind the maximum allowed loading of the Pallet Forks and the maximum load handling capacity of
the loader. Make sure that a single fork arm or the pallet fork assembly is not overloaded, and that the load is
spread evenly on both fork arms. Read chapter 6.3 carefully and remember to be especially careful on uneven
surfaces, as instructed in chapter 6.4.
Learn how to handle articulated loaders in tight spaces. The handling characteristics of an articulated loader
are different than of other types of loaders, or standard fork-lift trucks. Special training and practice may be
required.
If the load is too heavy when lifting load from a high level, the loader could tip forward
when reversing with the loader. Never reverse and drag with the loader before making
sure that the loader can handle the load that is being lifted.
If the loader is not equipped with the boom self leveling:
When lifting material to a high level, the front plate must be simultaneously tilted to
prevent the load from falling from on the loader or the operator. Fitting the loader with the
boom self leveling option makes the repeated lifting work easier.

17 (22)
.
6.3 Adjusting the forks
Adjust the forks to as wide setting as possible and avoid uneven horizontal load distribution for the
best horizontal stability.
The width between forks can be adjusted by turning the locking pins on top of the forks to the upright
position. Always lock the forks to the intended gaps on the pallet fork frame and ensure that the forks
can not move sideways.
Movements, such as stopping, turning, or lowering the boom abruptly, can cause loss of
stability. Always drive slowly and operate the controls of the loader very carefully when
handling heavy loads.
6.4 Safe working load
A load diagram is presented in the operator's manual of the loader. With the diagram the load handling
capability of the loader can be evaluated, according to the distance between the centre of gravity of the load
and the front axle of the loader.
The lifting capacity and the stability of the loader are at the best, when
the loader articulation is kept straight
the centre of gravity of the load is as close to the loader as possible
counterweights are fitted to the loader
the telescopic boom is kept retracted during lifting
lifting with the fork tips is avoided
Use maximum tipping load indicated in the
diagram of the operator's manual of the
loader as a guideline. Remember that the
actual load carrying capacity varies
according to operating conditions, especially
the levelness of the operating area has a
great impact. Be particularly careful when the
load sensor of the loader is activated (if
applicable). Also, make sure that the ground
can support the weight of the loader and
follow recommended tyre pressures.
Keep in mind that a heavy load or long distance between the loader and the load will affect handling of the
loader as well as its balance the loader. The use of additional counterweights is recommended especially
when operating smaller loader models. For 200-series loader the wheel weights are recommended. With
heavy loads, the telescopic boom must be kept retracted while moving with the loader.

18 (22)
If the maximum lifting height is required, extend the telescopic boom while the load is near the ground. This
way you can more easily monitor the limit of the lifting capacity of the loader, and in case of overload, the forks
near the ground will prevent tipping over.
Table 5–Safe Working loads as determined by ISO 14397-1
A21047
A21039
A36589
216/218/220
-
-
-
220/225
165 kg
-
-
320S/320S+
135 kg
125 kg
-
420
150 kg
140 kg
125 kg
520
255 kg
250 kg
230 kg
R20
265 kg
260 kg
240 kg
525LPG
290 kg
285 kg
270 kg
528
335 kg
325 kg
310 kg
R28
280 kg
270 kg
255 kg
630
350 kg
340 kg
325 kg
635
370 kg
360 kg
345 kg
R35
310 kg
300 kg
285 kg
640
380 kg
370 kg
355 kg
745
510 kg
500 kg
485 kg
750
530 kg
520 kg
505 kg
760i
540 kg
530 kg
515 kg
Shown information is the worst case minimum with frame articulated and telescopic boom extended on solid
and level ground, as calculated according to standard ISO 14397-1, with standard counterweights. Safe
working load is defined as 60% of the tipping load.
Adding or removing counterweights will affect the indicated SWL. Actual lifting capacity could be significantly
higher, or it may be lower, depending on terrain conditions, available lifting force, and load distribution.
Dimensions used for calculating load capacities:

19 (22)
.
6.5 Operating on inclined terrain
Extra caution is needed when using the equipment on inclined terrains and slopes. Drive slowly especially on
inclined, uneven, or slippery surfaces, and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Operate the controls
of the loader with careful and smooth movements. Watch out for ditches, holes on the ground, and other
obstacles, as hitting an obstacle may cause the loader to tip over.
Maximum lifting capacity can not be achieved on inclined terrain. On horizontally tilted terrain the load must
not be lifted high. The loader frame articulation should be kept straight when lifting heavy loads; turning the
load during lifting operation will affect the stability of the loader and may lead to overturning of the machine.
6.5.1 Operation with the tilt adapter
When working on slightly inclined terrains, a tilt adapter is an useful attachment. The adapter is fitted in
between the attachment and the quick coupling plate of the loader. The adapter allows the attachment to be
tilted sideways for efficient levelling or grading work. Read the instructions provided with the tilt adapter. More
information about the tilt adapter is available from your AVANT dealer or from the AVANT web pages at
www.avanttecno.com.

20 (22)
7. Cleaning, lubricating & inspections
Clean the attachment regularly to prevent accumulation of dirt which is more difficult to remove. You may use
a pressure washer and a mild detergent. Do not use strong solvents, and do not spray directly at the hydraulic
components, or at the labels on the attachment.
Do not store the attachment directly against the ground; place it on blocks of wood or on a pallet, for example.
For longer storage periods touch up the paint where needed, grease the lubrication points and oil the visible
parts of the hydraulic cylinder shaft to prevent rust damage.
Check the metal structures of the pallet forks regularly. Check visually for any sign of damage, and check the
quick coupling brackets and their surrounding area especially carefully. The attachment must not be used, if
deformations, cracks, or ruptures. Repairing the pallet forks by welding is prohibited. Do not weld any hooks or
similar to the forks or the frame. The forks are forged, heat-treated steel, and welding will have an adverse
effect on their strength. If a fork gets bent, the damage may be permanent and the fork may not be
straightened without special procedures and equipment. Replace any damaged fork with a new one. Contact
AVANT service for spare parts or further information
Use the fork side shift every now and then to prevent the jamming of the forks or the locking mechanisms.
Check that the forks lock positively. To make the fork side shift easier a suitable oil or grease may be used.
Keep the frame securing bolts or backrest extension bolts tightly fastened.
.
..
8. Warranty terms
Avant Tecno Oy grants a warranty of one year (12 months) from the date of purchase for the attachment it
manufactures.
The warranty covers repair costs as follows:
Work costs are covered, if the repair is not performed at the factory.
The factory replaces any defective components or consumables.
The factory may reimburse the price of components purchased by the customer in special cases that have
been agreed in advance.
The warranty does not cover:
Normal maintenance work or parts and consumables required for it.
Damages caused by unusual operating conditions or ways of use, negligence, structural changes made
without the consent of Avant Tecno Oy, use of non-original parts or lack of maintenance.
Consequences of a defect, such as interruption of work or other possible additional damages.
Travel and/or freight costs caused by the repair.