Forklift Truck Propelled Mover

Economical rail car switching solution with superior component reliability, utilizing standard forklift trucks for efficient shunting operations.

Key Specifications

 

  • Compatible with forklift trucks weighing 2 to 7.5 tons
  • Standard track gauge 56.5″ (1435mm). *Option to build the unit for narrow or broad gauge (from 39.4″ to 65.7″) for an additional cost.
  • Moving speed: 1.5 to 3.1 mph
  • Optional high-speed conversion kit available
  • Max push/pull capacity is 330 tons
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—Technical Specifications

Overview

The Portable Railcar Mover represents an economical approach to rail car switching, utilizing the power and reliability of standard forklift trucks to provide efficient shunting operations with minimal maintenance requirements.

This innovative railcar mover is designed for normal track gauge operations of 56.5″ (1435mm), with maximum shunting speeds of 1.5-3.1 mph. For applications requiring higher speeds, a conversion kit enables operation at 4.35 to 5.59 mph. The system’s ingenious design transfers the driving force from the forklift truck (weighing 2 to 7.5 tons) through four drive rollers, ensuring reliable and controlled movement.

The solid construction philosophy ensures the Forklift Powered Railcar Mover is almost maintenance-free, providing long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness. The system accommodates a wide range of forklift trucks, making it adaptable to existing fleet equipment and eliminating the need for specialized rail-only vehicles.

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Features

Watch as Railquip transforms an ordinary forklift truck into a powerful railcar mover—delivering an economical shunting solution with unmatched reliability and compatibility.

The Forklift Powered Railcar Mover pushes and pulls up to 330 tons at speeds of 1.5–3.1 mph, offering a low maintenance and cost-effective design that makes it a practical solution for customers with smaller operations that only need to move a few railcars a week.

Technical Specifications

  • Track Gauge: 56.5″ (1435mm) standard
  • Compatible Forklift Weight: 2 to 7.5 tons
  • Standard Moving Speed: 1.5 to 3.1 mph
  • High-Speed Option: 4.35 to 5.59 mph (conversion kit)
  • Drive System: Four drive rollers
  • Construction: Solid, maintenance-free design
  • Power Source: Forklift truck propulsion

Economic Operation

  • Utilizes existing forklift truck fleet
  • Eliminates need for specialized rail-only equipment
  • Superior component reliability
  • Almost maintenance-free due to solid construction
  • Cost-effective alternative to dedicated rail movers

Versatile Compatibility

  • Accommodates forklift trucks from 2 to 10 tons
  • Standard track gauge 56.5″ (1435mm) operation
  • Compatible with various forklift truck models
  • Easy mounting and dismounting process
  • Multi-purpose equipment utilization

Performance & Control

  • Standard speed range: 1.5 to 3.1 mph
  • Optional high-speed conversion kit available
  • Four drive rollers for efficient force transfer
  • Precise speed control through forklift operation
  • Stable and controlled rail movement
  • Max push/pull capacity is 330 tons

Design Advantages

  • Solid construction for durability
  • Minimal maintenance requirements
  • Portable design for flexible deployment
  • Easy operation with familiar forklift controls
  • Reliable performance in various rail yard conditions

—Related Projects

 

O-Train Case Study

In 2015, the O-Train in Ottawa, Canada, sought a complete train maintenance facility for their new fleet. Railquip provided a fully customized underground lifting

See Case Study

—FAQ’S

What size forklift trucks are compatible with this system?

The Forklift Truck Propelled Mover is designed to work with forklift trucks weighing between 2 to 7.5 tons, accommodating a wide range of standard industrial forklifts.

Who is this railcar mover best suited for?

This mover is ideal for cost-conscious customers with smaller operations who only need to move a few railcars per week—typically industrial clients with a spur that receives railcar shipments once or twice weekly. Its low maintenance and cost-effective design make it a practical solution for these needs.

Can this system be used on different track gauges?

The standard system is designed for normal track gauge of 56.5″ (1435mm). Custom configurations may be available for other track gauges upon request.

How does the high-speed conversion kit work?

The optional conversion kit modifies the drive system to enable speeds of 4.35 to 5.59 mph instead of the standard 1.5 to 3.1 mph range, suitable for applications requiring faster shunting operations.

What maintenance is required for this equipment?

Due to its solid construction design, the system is almost maintenance-free. Regular inspection of drive rollers and mounting points is recommended, along with standard forklift truck maintenance.

Is special training required to operate this system?

Operators familiar with forklift truck operation can quickly adapt to using this system, as it utilizes the same controls and operational principles as standard forklift operation.