Avantco A21047 User manual

Pallet Forks
2019 1
Operator's Manual for Attachment
Pallet Forks
Product number
850 mm SD
A21047
1100 mm HD A21039
1200 mm XHD A36589
Back frame (option)
A36346
English
A433751 2019 1 EN 2015-
www.avanttecno.com

Pallet Forks 2019 1

Pallet Forks 2019 1
CONTENTS
1. FOREWORD............................................................................................................................................4
2. DESIGNED PURPOSE OF USE.............................................................................................................5
3. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PALLET FORKS .....................................................................7
4. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ..........................................................................................................11
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment ..................................................................................11
5. ASSEMBLING THE PALLET FORKS ...................................................................................................13
5.1 Assembling the pallet forks ..................................................................................................................................13
5.2 Attaching pallet forks to loader...........................................................................................................................15
6. WORKING WITH PALLET FORKS .....................................................................................................17
6.1 Checks before use .................................................................................................................................................18
6.2 Using the pallet forks.............................................................................................................................................19
6.2.1 Fork width setting ..........................................................................................................................................19
6.2.2 Transporting loads .........................................................................................................................................19
6.2.3 Working load limit.........................................................................................................................................21
6.3 Rated Operating Capacity ....................................................................................................................................22
6.3.1 Rated Operating Capacity - 200 series loaders.......................................................................................24
6.3.2 Rated Operating Capacity - 400 series......................................................................................................25
6.3.3 Rated Operating Capacity - 523 .................................................................................................................26
6.3.4 Rated Operating Capacity - 528-640 and R series..................................................................................27
6.3.5 Rated Operating Capacity - e-series..........................................................................................................29
6.3.6 Rated Operating Capacity - 700 series......................................................................................................30
6.3.7 Rated Operating Capacity - 800 series......................................................................................................31
6.4 Operating with a tilt adapter ...............................................................................................................................32
6.5 Storing the attachment..........................................................................................................................................32
7. MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ..........................................................................................................33
7.1 Cleaning the attachment.......................................................................................................................................33
7.2 Inspection of metal structures.............................................................................................................................33
8. WARRANTY TERMS..............................................................................................................................34

4 (36)
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 (36)
2. Designed purpose of use
The AVANT Pallet forks are tools that are designed and manufactured for AVANT multi purpose loaders that
are shown in Table 1. The pallet fork is an excellent tool for handling standard sized pallets and other loads.
With Avant loader, handling of loads is easy also at areas where conventional fork-lift trucks are impracticable.
An Avant loader that is equipped with pallet forks is a versatile machine for load handling tasks all year round,
indoors and outdoors.
With the easily adjustable 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.
When lifting other material than pallets, the Log Grab attachment (A33503) is recommended. The Log Grab
attachment can be fitted to the pallet fork and it holds loose loads on the fork with its hydraulically operated
grapple. The log grab makes it easy to handle single logs, smaller timber bundles, fence poles, or similar
loose 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.
There are three Pallet fork models intended for different Avant loader models as shown in Table 1. The
maximum load is different for each pallet fork model. Never handle loads that are heavier than the declared
maximum load. The actual operating capacity of the loader equipped with pallet forks depends on the loader
model, and various environmental factors, as shown in this manual. Refer to the operator's manual of your
loader for information about the lift capacity of your loader. In this manual there are load charts that apply for
loaders that are manufactured in 2018 or later.
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 as any kind of access platform. The Pallet forks are not designed for any
other use than what is specified in this manual and must not be used for any other purposes than intended.
Using the pallet forks for other purposes than lifting of loads on pallets, or other unit loads that are intended to
be lifted with forks, can damage the fork arms or the frame of the pallet forks. Hanging of loads from the pallet
forks is prohibited. The fork arms must no be used to, for example, wedging of large rocks, or similar tasks
where fork arms are subject to high loads, bending, or impact. The fork arms must also not be bent, heated, or
straightened after damage.
The attachment has been designed to require as little maintenance as possible. The operator can perform
regular maintenance tasks. All repair work can’t be performed by the operator, and demanding repair and
maintenance operations are to be left for professional maintenance. All maintenance work must be done using
proper safety equipment. Spare parts must be identical with original specifications, which can be ensured by
using only original spare parts. A separate spare parts catalogue may be available, consult your Avant dealer.
Familiarise yourself with the manual's instructions regarding service and maintenance. 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.

6 (36)
.
Table 1 - Pallet Forks - Compatibility with Avant loaders
Avant
220 series 2
225
225LPG
313S
320S
420
423
520
523
R20
525LPG
R28
528
530
e5
e6
630
R35
635
640
745
750
755i
760i
850
860i
A21039 850 mm SD ••••••(•) -
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 the information shown in this
manual 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.

7 (36)
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.
DANGER
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
WARNING
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 t
he attachment as low as possible to keep the centre of gravity low,
and keep the telescopic boom retracted during driving.
Risk of dropping of load - Never exceed the Working Load Limit of the
attachment. The Working load limit of the pallet forks depe
nds on the pallet for
model. Never exceed the this load. The maximum load that can be lifted with a
loader, the Rated Operating Capacity, depends on several factors, such as the
following:
the loader model
position of the load on the pallet forks (horizont
al distance of the centre of gravity
of the load)
position and extension of the loader boom
position of the articulated loader frame
counterweights on the loader
movements of the loader, its boom, and load
smoothness of the ground surface and any inclination
Always follow the operator's manual of the loader to determine the Rated Operated
Capacity of each loader model. See more information on page 22.
Risk of tipping over when turning with the loader - Keep the loader articulation
in straight position when handling heavy loads.
When turning the articulation, the
loader may tilt forward. The Rated Operating Capacity is shown for when the loader
frame is straight, and when the loader is fully articulated. For the best lateral stabi
lity
keep the forks at as wide setting as possible.

8 (36)
WARNING
Risk of tipping over - Observe the maximum capacity of the loader. Observe
maximum load indicated in the operator’s manual of the loader. See also the
information in this manual. Be especially careful
when the load sensor indicator is
activated, if your loader is fitted with a load sensor system. Contact your Avant dealer
if you are unsure about limits of your loader.
Risk of dropping of load - Use the Pallet forks only to handle pallets, or loads
t
hat be handled in a similar way as pallets. Never suspend loads from pallet
forks.
Handling of other objects or loose materials may cause the material to fall
easily. Use the Log grab attachment to hold certain loads on the pallet forks. Lift loads
slowly and monitor the position of the forks, so that the load will not fall off.
Never attach or tie chains, ropes, hooks, or similar lifting accessories to the pallet
forks. The pallet forks are intended for lifting of loads on pallets, or other loads, tha
t
can be lifted steadily in similar way as pallets.
Risk of getting crushed from falling load - Never tilt pallet forks towards loader
when load is lifted.
Tilting a pallet towards the loader can cause loads to fall
towards you on the driver's seat. Ma
ke sure the load is secured on the pallet. Never
lift high stacks of loose materials. Keep the load steadily on pallets. Fit the rear guard
to the forks whenever possible. Use pallet forks only with loaders that are equipped
with ROPS and FOPS structures.
Risk of tipping over - Keep loads close to ground while driving. Carrying heavy
loads can shift the centre of gravity of the loader and lead to tipping over of the
loader. For the best stability always transport loads as low and close to the loader as
p
ossible, with the telescopic boom completely retracted, to keep the centre of gravity
low.
Make sure to use only an attachment that is in good condition. Do not modify the
attachment in any way that could affect its safety. Welding, drilling or any othe
r
modification of the pallet fork or its arms is prohibited. The fork arms must also not be
bent, heated, or straightened after damage. Damaged fork arms must be replaced
with new ones.
Sudden movements can cause the loader to tip over - 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.
Make sure that the surface can bear the total load. Also follow the correct tyre
pressure settings.
Risk of crushing - Never go or allow anyone else to go under the loader boom
or attachment. T
he 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 loader is not intended to
be left to keep a load elevated for longer periods. Lower the attachment firmly on the
ground before leaving the driver's seat and never allow anyone to be under the boom
or attachment.

9 (36)
WARNING
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.
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.
. ..
WARNING
Risk of crushing -
Never allow anyone to get under a
lifted attachment or 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.
. ..

10 (36)
DANGER
Risk of asphyxiation - Never operate a loader with a combustion engine indoors.
Using a loader that has a combu
stion engine (Diesel, gasoline, or LPG) in small confined
spaces or in poorly ventilated areas can cause dangerous levels of Carbon Monoxide
(CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2
) within minutes after starting the loader, resulting in loss
of consciousness and even death.
Never operate the loader indoors or in partly
enclosed areas
unless you've made sure there is special ventilation system installed.
Large indoor areas, such as warehouses, farm buildings, or factories, may have sufficient
indoor volume to allow tem
porary use of combustion engines, but it shouldn't be
assumed.
All combustion engines produce, among other exhaust gasses, carbon dioxide (CO2
) and
can also emit carbon monoxide (CO) that can concentrate quickly to a dangerous level.
Operate the loader only outdoors and far from windows, doors, and vents.
Elevated level of carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide in breathing air can not be noticed
without dedicated measuring equipment. Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include
nausea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and lack of consciousness.
Get fresh air immediately if you notice signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. See a doctor.
Remember to wear proper personal protective equipment:
The noise level at the driver's seat may exceed 85 dB(A) depending on loader
model and operating cycle. Extended exposure to loud noise can cause
hearing impairment. 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:
WARNING
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. Note that the attachme
nt can move even if the engine of the loader is turned off.
Safe stopping procedure:
Lower the boom completely down and lower the attachment flat on the ground.
Shut down the loader engine and lock the parking brake.
Prevent starting of the machine, remove ignition key.

11 (36)
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
ISO 2330
Forged steel, 100 mm
ISO 2330
Forged steel, 100 mm
ISO 2330
Weight of pallet forks
(assembly): 90 kg 115 kg 140 kg
Fork arm separation: 34-690 mm
Working load limit:
(Maximum technical load and
loading point)
1000 kg, 500 mm 1200 kg, 500 mm 1800 kg, 500 mm
Rated Operating Capacity: Depends on the loader model. See Rated operating capacity on page 22
Log grab accessory (option): A33503
Back frame (option): A36346, 21 kg
See page 13
Suitable AVANT loader: See Table 1 on page 5
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment
Listed below are the labels and markings on the attachment. They must be visible and readable on the
equipment. Replace any unclear or missing label. New labels are available via your retailer or contact
information provided on the cover.
WARNING
Make sure all warning decals are readable.
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
. ..

12 (36)
To apply a new label: Clean the surface thoroughly to remove all grease. Allow it to dry completely. Peel off
the protective film of the label and press firmly to apply. Take care not to touch the glue of the label.
Table 3 - Decal locations and warning messages
Decal Warning message
1 A46771 Misuse hazard -
Read instructions
before use.
2 A46772 Crushing hazard -
Do not go under a
raised atta
chment; stay away from
raised equipment.
3 Attachment identification plate
. ..
. ..
Table 4 - Pallet Forks - Main components
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)

13 (36)
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 suit
able 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
WARNING
Risk of crushing - Unlocked attachment may fall causing serious injuries.
Make
sure that the frame is locked to the loader. See the 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 nex
t 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.

14 (36)
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

15 (36)
.
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:
WARNING
Crushing risk - 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 u
se of the locking system from the relevant
manuals.
Ensure that the hydraulic hoses 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 y
our 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 both locking pins.

16 (36)
WARNING
Risk of crushing - Avoid tipping over the attachment.
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 att
achment 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.
WARNING
Risk of falling objects -
Prevent dropping of
attachment.
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 mov
e 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.
WARNING
Make sure the loader is compatible with the attachment.
Stability of the loader,
possible overload of the attachment, and compatibility of loader control systems must be
ensured in addition to mechanical compatibility of the attachment. If you use the
attachment with a loade
r that is not fit to be used with the attachment model you have,
risks include tipping over, damage to attachment due to overload, and risks related to
uncontrolled motion of attachment and its parts. If your loader is not listed in Table 1 on
page 6, ask your Avant dealer before using this attachment.

17 (36)
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.
WARNING
Risk of tipping over - Avoid overload.
Loader can tip over
when handling too heavy loads, or because of dyna
mic
movements caused by driving with and handling of a heavy
load. 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. When you notice that
the rear wheels of the
loader are about to lift from the ground,
or 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 load is lifted
Use additional counterweights as needed
WARNING
Crushing risk -
Make sure that load will not move or fall
over.
Never tilt the attachment back when it is lifted high.
Operate only with machines equipped with ROPS and FOPS
structures.
WARNING
Risk of crushing - Nev
er allow anyone to get under a
lifted attachment or 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 pe
riods. Always
lower the attachment to a safe position before leaving the
driver's seat.

18 (36)
WARNING
Risk of falling from height and crushing under bucket or
loader -
Never use a bucket as a lifting platform or to
carry people. Never use the loader or i
ts attachments to lift
persons or as any kind of work platform even temporarily.
Never climb on the attachment.
Always lower the bucket on the ground before leaving the
driver's seat. The loader is not intended to hold loads lifted for
longer periods of time.
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.

19 (36)
.
6.2 Using the pallet forks
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
necessary. Practice handling of the loader that is equipped with pallet forks, and observe how the pallet forks
move sideways when turning with the loader, both when driving forward and when reversing.
6.2.1 Fork width setting
Always adjust the forks to as wide setting as possible.

Avoid uneven horizontal load distribution for the best
possible 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.
6.2.2 Transporting loads
Whenever using the Pallet forks, make sure that the load is well balanced and evenly on both fork arms. All
loads must be transported as low and as close to the loader as possible, as shown in the figure below. Keep
the pallet forks at as wide setting as possible.
Distance of center of gravity of load
The horizontal distance between the centre of gravity of the load and the front wheels of the loader affects the
lift capacity of the loader. As shown in the load charts in this manual, the load moves away from the loader,
when the loader boom is lifted. At the horizontal position of the loader boom the load is at the maximum
distance. The Rated operating capacity is declared for this position.
Standard load centre distance
For creating the load charts, the following distances are used as the center of gravity of the load on the pallet
forks. The distance depends on the loader model as shown below:
200 series loaders
400 series loaders
Avant 523
400 mm
Other loader models 500 mm

20 (36)
This distance is the horizontal distance between the vertical face of fork arm and the center of gravity of the
load on pallet forks.
Note that the vertical position of the load is not directly relevant to lifting capacity of the loader, but high
vertical position of a load will decrease the lateral stability of the loader. The centre of gravity of the load
should be as low as possible for maximum overall stability 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
WARNING
Risk of tipping over - Avoid overload.
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.
WARNING
Avoid sudden loss of stability - Never drag loads from e.g. a shelf.
If the load that
you want to lift from height is too heavy, the loader can 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.
WARNING
Risk of crushing - Abrupt movements can cause loss of stability.
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.
If the loader is not equipped with the boom self levelling:
WARNING
Prevent material from falling on you - Monitor the position of the bucket.
When
lifting material to a high level, the bucket plate must be simultaneously tilted to prevent
the load from falling fro
m on the loader or the operator. Fitting the loader with the boom
self levelling option makes repeated loading work easier.