Massachusetts Hoisting License Practice Test

What type of steering do industrial fork trucks typically employ?

1. Front wheel drive

2. Rear wheel drive

3. All wheel drive

4. Crawler drive

The correct answer is: Rear wheel drive

Industrial fork trucks typically employ rear wheel drive steering systems. This design provides several advantages that enhance the maneuverability and operational efficiency of forklifts in tight spaces, which is crucial in warehouse and industrial environments. Rear wheel drive steering allows the front wheels to pivot, enabling better control and more agile movements. When turning, the rear wheels follow a different path than the front, which helps minimize the turning radius. This is particularly important in environments where space is limited, allowing operators to navigate aisles and corners more effectively while carrying loads. Additionally, rear wheel steering provides increased stability, especially when the fork truck is lifting heavy loads. This configuration helps redistribute weight and maintains balance, reducing the risk of tipping during operation. Given these benefits, rear wheel drive has become the standard in the design of industrial fork trucks.