DalaGStanator's Customs, Mods and Experiments

Second try at a forklift, this time modelled after a Yale GLP060; minus (what seems to be) the LPG tank since it's not "literally" that model. V1 was the first type of small machine I tried making for a 1:50 scale operator, but its proportions were poor and it had a stability issue; likely caused by the ridges on the rear wheels. It also had a flimsy mast made of one zip tie, with the forks glued to a pawl end that slid over it (flipped around so it wouldn't get stuck in place). This version uses cardboard wheels, with the front ones having "rings" at the sides to add depth to the tyres. Should've used a knife to cut out the inner diameters, but I will make them like this from now on to improve their appearance. In case the front wheels lock up, they can be lightly pulled forward so they don't hit the mudguards. Rear steering works as expected, though the wheels have to be touched directly since they're too close to the cab to fit a knob.



The mast and forks are made entirely out of zip ties, including their perfectly shaped pointed ends. For realistic mounting, the sliding frame is attached to a pawl end with a thin strip behind it to keep it from falling off. Since the mast had to be rebuilt with hot glue and the four-layered side beams have mild residue from the liquid silicone, it has enough friction to keep the forks up when they reach the top (even with a load). To allow tilting, the mast is currently held on with a cardboard plate instead of an ordinary hinge. Only problem with that is it can also tilt left and right, so the single plate might be replaced with two for added stability.



I initially thought it wouldn't need a real counterweight, but so much as 4 grams is enough to make it tip forwards. My solution was to glue a magnet on top so the capacity can be adjusted by adding more magnets if needed. Later forklifts will be fitted with counterweights before sealing the bonnets.