Cable for forklift mechanism
 

our team has never used a forklift mechanism before and we have seen people use chains and cables. Could someone recomend the type and size of cable that would be best for this?

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

spectra cable

http://www.smallparts.com/products/descriptions/mcs.cfm

the stuff is stronger than steel wire but sunlight weakens it. (just dont go in the sun :D) crazy strong...

-vivek

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

If you are talking about how to lift it through a motor driven system, then #25 chain or belting like what was included in the kit (gates).

If you are talking about the cable to lift the sections, I would recommend 1/8" or bugger steel cable. You don't want any stretch. It is fairly easy to work with, but you will need ferrules and other conectors to get it tight the first time.

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

Preselected cable works wonders if you can afford it. Aircraft Cable will do the trick on anything.

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

We have had problems with cable based systems, but not with chain driven (mind you, we've only done one of each, so that isn't a very large sample set). With chain driven systems, all you need to do is toss on a sprocket instead of having to build a drum to wind the cable up on and you don't have to worry so much about slippage.

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

three years ago we used 1/4" cables and we didn't have any problems with it. it still worked 'til last year when we used it to prototype. personally i think that chain is better, but it's only a preference.

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

would what came in the gates bag be a good idea?

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

It depends on your lifting mechanism and the load. One year, we used 3/16" or 1/4" nylon rope to operate a list mechanism. Another team used some nylon strap webbing, perhaps 1 inch wide by 1/16" thick. That stuff spooled up nicely.

Re: Cable for forklift mechanism
 

the best solution we have found are the gates belts, they work great (although pricey) and can hold and move a large load with minimal stretch. verry fast to put together as well