I need a compact forklift that can get around on gravel and snow pack, yet is still small enough to use in the shop. Need a 5,000lb lift cap. Currently I am using a 5,000lb Mitsubishi with pneumatic tires. Would like to stay as close to this overall size as possible. I found a picture of what I was wanting to fine, but I've only seen it over seas.
Welcome to the Forums NorthridgeFab!:drinkup The first thing that came to my mind was a piggy-back forklift. The three wheel type that lumber and block/brick companies use to deliver materials to the jobsite and it rides on the back of the flatbed.
I have seen chains for pneumatic forklift tires before. i don't think your going to have much luck finding something that meets those requirements. You could buy a second set of tires for winter and have them studded.
Thanks I've seen those, but they are too wide to use in the shop. It gets pretty tight in here sometimes. I've thought about chains or studs, but I cant get around even when it's dry. The terrain is too rough. I did some more searching. It looks like they offer some 4WD forklifts that look a lot like the picture I posted. Still trying to find them in the states.
Something like this? - http://www.jcbna.com/products/5-waste-recycling/25-industrial-forklifts/ http://www.machinerytrader.com/list/list.aspx?ETID=1&catid=1038&Manu=JCB&MDLGrp=TLT30 http://www.machinerytrader.com/listingsdetail/detail.aspx?OHID=6853595
We use bobcats (skid-steer loaders) with fork attachments on them. There is a real big "hole" in the RT forklift market place. No smaller size 4x4 RT forklifts made that I'm aware of.
Those JCB's CM linked are the only thing i'm aware of close to what your looking for. Couple people were looking at them a few years ago dunno if anyone bought one tho.
Look for an IT40 Clark. Will probably fill your bill. Could be a 50 if you could find a cwt off one. Google Clark IT40 forklift and scroll down Machinery Trader and down it to find 79 IT40B with a pic. Will show you what one looks like with single drive tires. Most down here have duals. LUCK
http://www.genielift.com/en/products/new-equipment/telehandlers/compact-telehandler/index.htm http://www.cat.com/cda/layout?m=308783&x=7