I am researching buying a forklift. It will be used on dirt. What are common capacities used by timber frame companies. I am thinking 4000-6000 pounds. Is there any features that I should consider. Are there any older models/manufactures that are reliable.
-Collin

Some additonal information regarding my previous post. Forklift: I would like to be able to use it in variable conditions (snow,etc) but be as small as possible and still do the task 6000lbs.
-Collin

What kind of ground conditions will you be working in? You mention all types of weather... You may want to consider a 3 point hitch forklift if you have access to a tractor ( look under agricultural/orchard equipment).

For what it is worth - I recall seeing a picture of a side load forklift that seemed to make a lot of sense in tight environments.

For rough terrain as well as rough use nothing beats a skid-steer loader fitted with forks. It has the capability to push itself out if you should be stuck and it also has the nifty ability to switch from forks to bucket without leaving the cab. The only drawback I can see is that you don't have the lifting height range that a true forklift has. As far as lifting capacity goes these machines come in a wide range of sizes and capabilities.

We use a 6ooo# Hyster dual tire forklift. We have had ok success on snow. Our timber storage area is gravel which helps. Our next forklift will be an rough terrain type with atleast a 6000# capacity but I would like to have one with 8000# capacity. It is not uncommon to have timbers delivered from the supplier and have the forklift barely able to lift a bundle. Having a standard type forklift that is not "too large" allows us to park it inside at night where we keep the temperature at 50 degrees vs outside where it can be below 0 degrees. Also with employees I prefer a manufactured forklift versus a "homemade" item for liabiblity reasons. Forklift safety courses are also a good idea for our employees.

Bob,
Thank you for the info. Is a dual tire fork one with duelies on the front?
Does your fork have the flatter tires on it?
What kind of power? (diesel, gas, propane,etc)
I am looking at a 2wheel drive, 6000 lb with rough terrain tires. It basically is a tractor with the seat turned backwards. The gentleman selling it said you can always put chains on it. If you really need the traction. It is a late 70's with a Diesel engine for around $9000
-Collin

Correct. There are four total tires on front. Yes the tires are flatter tread and not the tractor type. This one has gas. There are pros and cons to gas and propane. Your choice of a 6000lb rough terrain is probably the best choice out there. My uncle, who owns a lumber mill, owns two of this type, and they are about the best for what we do. From my experience, late 70's, diesel, for about $9000 is probably a good price for both the buyer and the seller. Collin, what make is it? Good luck, Bob

Bob,
One is a "Lion Lift All" and the other is a "Allis Chalmers"
Do you have any experience or information on either of these companies?
The dealer said the Allis Chalmers is easy to repair and get parts for.
-Collin

I can certainly vouch for the allis-chalmers if it has a perkins engine....many of them do.
we run 2 masseys, both with perkins and they have been a trouble free engine, our loader tractor engine is at 8,000 hours and works fine. The perkins can be a bit smokey, though. You would find allis parts through Agco.