Heavy-duty forklift extensions built for any load

Forklift extensions extend the length of a forklift's existing forks. They are typically made of structural steel and slip over existing forks. At Sidekick Attachments, we multiple and profiles to meet your specific application needs.

When used properly, fork extensions are completely safe. Just make sure that extensions do not exceed 1.5 times the length of the forks and ensure that they can support an evenly distributed load of three times its rated capacity. Additionally, the rated load center should equal 50% of the fork extension’s load supporting length.

Fork extenders temporarily extend the length of a lift truck’s forks. They are designed to improve the reach and load-bearing potential of a lift. That means they can handle large and oddly shaped loads with better stability and less product damage than regular forks. They also greatly increase the efficiency of a forklift. 

OSHA requires that Fork extensions should not exceed 1.5 times the length of the original forks. 

Example: If your forks are 4 feet long, then your extensions should not extend 6 feet.

To determine what your forklift’s capacity will become when using an attachment, use the following formula: Truck Capacity X Load Center (for its Load Moment) / New load center of desired attachment.

You can also express this formula with an equation: (TC x LC)/NLC.

So, if you have a 5,000-lb. forklift with a 60-inch attachment, you would multiply 5,000 by 24 (its load center), for a result of 120,000 inch-pounds as its maximum load moment. Then we divide 120,000 by 30, which is the load center for the desired 60-inch attachment. The end result is 4,000 pounds of maximum weight when using that specific attachment.

A fork extension is a particular type of fork attachment. There are many kinds of fork attachments that do very different jobs.

For example, a side shifter fork attachment allows you to move a load from side to side, so you can make small adjustments to the alignment of the load.

Fork extensions are designed to provide a simple, but effective method of handling the occasional long and awkward load that extends past the tips of the parent fork arm. However, they do come in different styles and lengths depending on the job you are completing.

Yes! Most fork extensions can be installed and removed in a matter of minutes.