3
A.
Operating Instructions
NOTE: IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT ALL OPERATORS PRACTICE OPERATION OF
THE DRUM GRIP AND ITS CONTROLS WITH AN EMPTY DRUM BEFORE USING IT ON
FULL DRUMS TO FAMILIARIZE THEMSELVES WITH THE MACHINE AND TO
DEVELOP SAFE WORKING HABITS.
1.
Insert forks of lift truck into fork tubes of drum grip.
2.
Attach safety chain by wrapping it around carriage and clipping safety hook back to the chain.
3.
Adjust turnbuckle setting for drum size. Start by adjusting the turnbuckle so the jaw tips measure
about the same distance apart, as the measurement of the inside diameter of the barrel being
lifted.
4.
Next tilt the forklift carriage forward so the mast is less than 90° to the floor, and drive in to the
barrel.
5.
Pressure against the barrel needs to be applied to the back of the grips as you start lifting the
barrel.
6.
To load using 3” jaws (for plastic drums): Grip drum below top chime. Jaws should go around
drum as operator advances truck and will grip drum as carriage is raised.
7.
To load using 6” jaws (for steel and fiber drums): Grip drum in center between ribs. Jaws
should go around as operator advances truck and will grip drum as carriage is raised.
8.
As you raise the forks, the drum grip arms will drop, exerting an inward pressure on the jaws
which mechanically grips the drum with a firm and even pressure. NOTE: The turnbuckle
may need some adjustment to give it an even grip on the barrel. If the drum slips on your
first try, do not assume that the turnbuckle must be tightened! The correct move maybe to
loosen it (if the turnbuckle is set too tightly, the mechanical gripping feature will be impaired).
9.
With the barrel lifted off the ground the mast maybe returned to 90°.
10.
After setting the drum down, continue lowering the forks a couple inches before backing away.
NOTE:
The 6” jaws are designed to pick up steel and fiber drums 18”-28” in diameter.
The 3” jaws are designed to pick up 23” plastic
