Walkie Rider Pallet Jack – Complete FAQs Guide

Introduction

Walkie rider pallet jack- It’s a type of pallet jack that is AC electric-motor-powered.  For easy use of the Walkie rider pallet jack, an operator uses it while standing on a designated platform while lifting and offloading pallets.

Figure 1: Walkie Rider Pallet Jack

What are the features of a walkie rider pallet jack?

A walkie rider pallet jack has a load capacity of 2000-4000LBs.

It has superior performance due to its AC drive motor for lift application, acceleration, and smooth plug reversals.

Durability. A walkie rider pallet jack is built with heavy gauge steel throughout that means the pallet jack is durable enough to last for a long period.

Galvanized option. For those operating in cold storage, this feature offers key protection against corrosive environments.

Maneuverability and ergonomic design. This allows operators to effectively operate from one area to another.

Steer wheels that help in maintaining the balance of the load and the pallet jack on uneven floors.

Loaded travel speed. 6.5 and 6.2 mph

Unloaded travel speed 9mph

What are the types/models of Walkie rider pallet jack?

Walkie rider pallet jack comes in various sizes, models, and load capacity

End controlled Rider pallet jack

• This type of walkie rider pallet jack is AC motor powered.
• Has a capacity of 2000-4000 pounds.
• The operators stand on the platform on the tractor side and ride it.
• Has maximum fork length of 144 inches.
• Travel speed 6.2 mph.

Figure 2: End Controlled Walkie Rider Pallet Jack

Centre controlled rider pallet jack

For this type of walkie rider pallet jack,

• It has a capacity of 6000-8000 pounds.
• It is AC powered.
• The operators stand on the platform between the forks and the battery.
• Has a fork with a maximum length of 103 inches.
• Has also a multifunction control handle.

Figure 3: Centre-controlled Walkie Rider Pallet Jack.

4000lbs D40 Walkie rider pallet jack.

It’s an electrically operated pallet jack with a capacity of 4000lbs.

And has the following features:

• A compact design that helps it operate both inside and outside.
• AC drive motor.
• 85AH batteries.
• Has an ergonomic handle.

Figure 4: D40 Walkie Rider Pallet Jack.

LPT40 (Lithium-Ion Powered) walkie rider pallet jack

This type is designed from the ground level moving upwards for advanced Li-ion battery technology.

It is suitable for store deliveries, heavy-duty warehouses, and manufacturing applications.

Features:

• It can run up to 3 hours without the need for charging.
• Battery discharge indicator.
• Thumbs control allows for safe and accurate operation
• Has an Ergonomic handle with a reversible switch.

Figure 5: LPT40 Walkie Rider Pallet Jack

What are the advantages of the Walkie rider pallet jack?

It has a Multifunction handle that allows a rider to simply manage all the controls with either hand.

Has a bumper that is high enough and prevents docks from hanging up and low enough to avoid pallets from overriding.

Improves productivity and performance.

Increase the efficiency of low-level order picking.

Safe and comfortable during operations.

Energy-saving- due to its AC drive motors, it allows for energy savings with quick yet safe travel speed.

Long-life service- this is due to its high-quality building material.

Environment protection – Walkie rider pallet jacks do not emit harmful gas thus making it safe to operate.

Reduced operational cost – this is due to its efficiency and effectiveness in terms of lifting heavy loads and requires one operator to operate.

Safety and protection – helps reduce injuries and death cases in the workplace.

 How does a walkie rider pallet jack function?

Before operating a walkie rider pallet jack, follow the operating instructions provided by the manufacturer’s manual.

The following steps are how to operate the walkie rider pallet jack effectively;

• Unplug the walkie rider pallet jack from its charger.
• Lower the forks to the ground using the release on the handle.
• Use controls on the handle to maneuver the pallet jacks.
• Line up the forks of the pallet jack with the load and slide the forks into the pallet.
• Use the controls to lift the load off the ground.
• Direct the walkie rider pallet jack to the location where you want to unload the pallet.
• When in a designated location, stop the jack before lowering the forks.
• Lower the fork to the ground all the way.

What training will your operators need?

For safety and protection, any employee operating the walkie rider pallet jack will need training.

The training needs to comply with the safety standards set by PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) plus following the approved code of practice (ACOP). that is aimed at those who are involved in any type of lift jack operations.

Employees should be given basic training in how to operate the walkie rider pallet jack and how to do specific work-related tasks.

What are the requirements of operating the Walkie rider pallet jack?

For both safety and effectiveness during operations the following should be considered;

Where is the Walkie rider pallet jack used?

Walkie rider pallet jacks are tools used for lifting and moving pallets within warehouses. Different types of pallet jacks are available for various industries and applications.

Their main aim is to increase productivity and performance, reduce labor costs and reduce injuries and death in workplaces.

      The following are industries that use this type of jack;

• Warehouses
• Cold storages
• General manufacturing

What are the maintenance practices necessary for a Walkie rider pallet jack?

• For the longest life, the battery is fully charged.
• Check tires and wheels regularly. Replace the worn-out ones.
• Lubrication should be done at least every 6 months for longer-lasting performance.
• Ensure all brakes are functioning well with fault.
• Checks the nuts-and-bolts fitness.
• Weight capacity. The walkie rider pallet jack should lift and offload the cap cited weight.
• Ensure control of loading and offloading are functioning.
• Avoid raining environment.

What are factors to consider when purchasing a Walkie rider pallet jack?

Before any purchase of Walkie rider pallet jack the following features should be considered;

Weight capacity – the weight of the pallet to be lifted and offloaded determine the type of pallet jack to use.

Budget cost – the buyer should consider his /her budget as this determine the type of walkie rider pallet jack to buy.

Lift height – ensure that the Walkie rider pallet jack can lift the pallet weight to the ideal height.

Performance – this depends on the speed and also its maintenance.

Productivity – the pallet jack should be able to increase the productivity of the workplace.

Safety and protection – walkie rider pallet jack should be able to reduce injuries or death cases in the workplace.

Type of industry – different industries has different functions. Industries that involve lots of heavy pallets, lifting, and offloading has more need of this pallet jack.

Durability. – walkie rider pallet jack should have a long-lasting service life.

Pallet length – The pallet jack should have a convenient length that enables easy movements, lifting, and offloading of loads.

Wheels – polyurethane wheels are best, since they are silent, no floor damage, and can perform on unleveled floors.

What are the hazards that Walkie rider pallet jack operators experience?

There are a lot of hazards that an operator may experience when operating the Walkie rider pallet jack. Includes;

• Falling loads
• Equipment overload
• Container Piercing
• Contamination of battery acid
• Fires during refueling
• Loading dock roll-off

What are some hazards control when operating Walkie rider pallet jack?

The following are hazards control that can be implemented when the Walkie rider pallet jack is operating;

• Controls of the equipment’s keys
• Authorized fuel and recharge areas
• Warning lights of the equipment
• Fire extinguisher mounting

What to consider when changing and charging storage batteries of the Walkie rider pallet?

• Any industry operating Walkie rider pallet jack should have an area designated for battery charging installation purposes.
• The facility should provide fire protection, for protecting the charging apparatus from damaging the pallet jack.
• Reinstalled batteries shall be properly positioned for protecting the charging apparatus from damage.
• When charging batteries, acid shall be poured into water, water shall not be poured into acid.
• No smoking in charging area
• Precaution should be taken to avoids fumes, flames, and fire in the charging area.
• Metallic tools should be placed away from opened or uncovered batteries.
• At high temperatures, when the pallet jack temperature is above the recommended one, the batteries should be disconnected and allowed to cool.

What are general safe operating procedures (SOP) and rules when operating Walkie rider pallet jack?

The following are safety guidelines for effective operations of Walkie rider pallet jack;

• The pallet jack should be operated by only authorized and trained personnel.
• All pallet jacks should be equipped with a fire extinguisher, backup horn.
• Operators should follow the recharge safety procedure given.
• Operators in high lift areas should wear hard hats.
• The pallet jack should lift the capacity weight to avoid overload.
• When unattended or in parking, the pallet jack should be turned off and forks lowered to the ground.
• When loading and offloading ensure the pallet jack is in good condition.
• The operator should ensure both pre-and post-trip inspections are done.

How to test the operating controls for the Walkie rider pallet jack?

A Walkie rider pallet jack has five operating controls that should be tested before operation;

• Horn – Make sure it works properly.
• Brakes – Ensure they are functioning.
• Forks – Raise and low them.
• Forward and reverse controls – Ensure they are correctly operating.
• Emergency controls – This should be functional before any operation.

What are the parts that make up the Walkie rider pallet jack?

Walkie rider pallet jack is made up of many parts with different functionality.

• Emergency Reverse switch- Designed to reverse the direction of the jack when activated.
• Directional controls – have 3 functions, stop fluid flow, allow fluid flow, and change the direction of fluid flow.
• Hydraulic control – used to adjust the flow rate of hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic system.
• Horn – used to raise caution to a pedestrian when the pallet jack is operating.
• Battery level display – helps indicate the battery status i.e. If the battery is discharged, red led indicates.
• Rabbit button (speed boost):
• Ignition – starter switch in a control system of a pallet jack that activates the main electrical system.
• Forks – used to raise and low the load
• Load wheels – they are mounted inside the end of forks, which forces the load upward until it clears the floor.
• Control head – Provides advanced control of the pallet jack’s AC motor, giving the unit power and efficiency.
• Battery – Ensure your equipment is always fully charged and ready to work.
• Platform – this is designed for an operator to stand on while moving the pallet.

What are some of the malfunctions experienced by the Walkie rider pallet jack and their solutions?

• Load can’t be lifted – Caused by the following, load weighs too high, battery discharged and hydraulic oil level too low. Lift only the max capacity as indicated on the pallet jack. Charge the battery. Check and refill the hydraulic oil.
• Oil leakage from air-breathing – Caused by an excessive quantity of oil. Reduce oil quantity.
• Pallet jacks do not start operating – Caused by a battery when charging and fuse faulty. Ensure the battery is fully charged and the power plug is removed from an electrical socket. For faulty fuses, check and replace the fuses.

What are the different models and features of the Walkie rider pallet jack?

PE Series Walkie rider pallet jack

An electric-powered pallet jack that can be used for loading and offloading heavy pallets.

Load capacity – 6000-8000 lb.

Power – 24v/330-930 Ah

Head length – 36.7-43.2 in

Width overall – 36 in

Normal fork length – 36-144 in

Price range; 1888 -2400 dollars

End controlled rider pallet jack

Ac motor powered

Weight capacity;6000-8000lb

Fork length – 144 inch

Speed – 6.2-6.5 mph

Voltage – 24

Overall length – 76.4-186.8 in

Height – 56.7 in

Overall width – 36 in

Price range; 2800-7200 dollars

Centre controlled rider pallet jack

Designed for low-level pecking order, High-speed transportation of pallets over a long distance

Powered by Ac motor

Weight capacity; 4000Lb

Fork Length; 103 in

Power; 24v/750 Ah

Head length, 44.7 in

Overall width; 34 in

Price range; 1499-86900 dollars

What are the benefits of using the Walkie rider pallet jack?

The Walkie rider pallet jack has a lot of benefits when used, its benefits are also based on its unique features.

Power steering – Creates a smoother operation and also produces comfortable driving with fewer strains on muscles and joints.

High speed – Due to its high speed, makes it fit to operate in Warehouses and long-distance.

Stability – They are designed to offer stable operation at high speed. This makes it safe when lifting heavy pallets at a set height.

Tough and durable – They are designed to lift and move heavy loads safely thus longer service life.

The Li-ion battery technology – This type of battery charges up very quickly. Thus, saving downtime used.

Improves productivity – Ability to work anywhere in the warehouse space and the fact that it charges quickly helps in productivity.

Great visibility – This helps in the safe lifting and lowering of loads.

Multifunctional ability – The Walkie rider pallet jack can be used in any warehouse space but also in outdoor activities.

Increased performance – The walkie rider pallet jack has high performance due to its speed and capacity weight.

Reduced injuries and deaths – Introduction of Walkie rider pallet jack at the workplace has seen injuries and death cases due to heavy lifting of loads or even accidents reduced.

Reduced operation costs – Due to its speed and performance, a lot of time is saved thus reduced costs.

Labor costs – A Walkie rider pallet jack needs only one operator, thus making it easy to operate and reduced labor costs.

What are the ergonomic features of a Walkie rider pallet jack?

• Multifunctional control handle – has hand grips for easy operation.
• High-speed interlock – To maintain top travel speed for long-distance transport.
• Box rail fork construction – Provide ridged and maximum strength.
• Solid steel pull rods – Adds strength throughout the entire length of forks
• Dual lift cylinder – For efficient hydraulic power.
• Self-diagnostics – Simplify troubleshooting and elimination.
• Cushioned stability handrail – Offers control when traveling at high speed.
• Cold conditioning package option.

What are the standard features of a Walkie rider pallet jack?

These features are categorized differently as shown below;

Performance

• A thermal protection AC motor powered
• A 24-voltage electrical system
• Regenerative braking
• Programmed performance
• Adjustable speed limit
• On and off-key switch.
• Limit lift switch
• Battery discharging indicators
• A hydraulic protective overload valve.
• A fuse control & power circuit
• An electric horn

Body & exterior design

• Multi-functional control handle
• Soft cushioned rider platform
• Has 2 thumbwheels to offer directions and speed traveled.
• Low platform step height
• Positioned lift/lower buttons
• High-speed interlock button

Durability

• Electronic control unit (ECU) communications
• Has a finishing of powder coat
• Steel bulkhead wrappers
• Solid trail fork casting
• polymer cover

Serviceability

• AC drive motor
• Error indicator with self-diagnostics

How do you maneuver the Walkie rider pallet jack?

For effective Walkie rider pallet jack operations, here is a step by step instructions;

Step 1; Unplug and store the charging cord

The first step of operating a Walkie rider pallet jack is to unplug the charging cord and store it away inside the machine.

When not in use, they should be plugged in and charged.

Step 2; Identify the controls and lower prongs

On the Walkie rider pallet jack handle, there are buttons to control the direction of movement.

Push the ‘Down’ button to lower the prongs towards the floor.

Step 3; Load the pallet

Use the controls to move the pallet jack to your destination. Then press the ‘Up’ button to lift the pallet and prongs off the ground.

Step 4; Use the control buttons to move

Once the pallet is securely loaded, use the control buttons to move to your destination.

Press the‘ Down’ button to lower the prongs and the pallet to the floor.

Step 5; Charge the Walkie rider pallet jack

When you are done, park the Walkie rider pallet jack in the right place. Pull out the charging cord and plug it back into the charging area.

Do you need a license to operate a Walkie rider pallet jack?

To comply with OSHA safety regulations, operators of Walkie rider pallet jacks should complete a certification course. The employer can have employees trained on effective ways of operating Walkie rider pallet jacks. Also, there is an online course that can be helpful.

How much weight can I put on a Walkie rider pallet jack?

Most Walkie rider pallet jacks can handle up to 6000-8000 lbs. This depends on the size and model that you are using, as some are made to handle larger weights. Consult the instructions for the specific model you plan to use for exact measurements.

Whether you decide to go with any Walkie rider pallet jack model, any choice will make your next construction project so much easier, as you won’t be stuck doing all of the heavy lifting on your own.

What are the safety precautions that a Walkie rider pallet jack operator should know?

Walkie rider pallet jack should be handled with a lot of caution, otherwise, once safety precautions are not adhered to, it can turn to be dangerous to the user.

Inspection before use – One of the most important steps before operating a Walkie rider pallet jack is to take a look and make sure everything appears ready and functional. The following are the key areas of inspection such as loose prongs, unbalanced wheels, or charging cords that aren’t stowed properly. This helps determine any fault before the pallet jack is functional.

Path clearance – Ensure the drop-off point is clear from obstacles.

Machine access restriction – Ensure the machine is strictly operated by authorized operators.

Parking and storage – The walkie rider pallet jack should be stored or parked in a secured place.