Forklift Tie Rod Improves Service Life & Saves Cost
When a forklift OEM provided samples for a tie rod quote, we took a look at the overall design. Based on knowledge from working with similar applications in the commercial truck industry, the engineers were able to improve the tie rods used in the steering mechanism.
The Solution
CCTY Bearing Company’s engineers focused on improving the connections with a self-lubricated, metal-on-nylon design. This arrangement allows for higher impact loads while eliminating the need for maintenance, as well as the spring and cups.
For the past five years, the OEM has successfully used metal-on-polymer tie rods in its forklift steering application.
The CCTY Bearing Company solution proved to be a:
- Maintenance-free design
- Prolonged service life
- Cost advantage from the part reduction
- Smoother steering
- Streamlined approach to assembly