2-1
2
Introduction
2-1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SkyRider 15 hydraulic lift is designed and manufactured for use as a warehouse
stocking and order picking vehicle. Its guard rail design permits the operator to ride on
the platform with the load, while transferring parts to and from multiple overhead storage
locations. The maximum platform load is limited to 500 lbs.
All SkyRider operations are powered by a 24-Volt DC battery package. A 20-amp bat-
tery charger and plug-in receptacle are included in the system for recharging the batteries
at the end of each work period. A charge level indicator displays the battery charge
status.
The platform lift function is hydraulic, including a hydraulic cylinder, reservoir, and
pump. The hydraulic pump motor is driven by a 24-Volt DC electric motor. Elevation is
by a 1-1/2 inch linear-displacement hydraulic cylinder and three telescoping mast sec-
tions. The lower mast section is raised by hydraulic cylinder. The upper two mast sec-
tions are raised mechanically by two connecting sets of chains and sheaves (pulleys). The
lift platform rises three inches for each inch of hydraulic cylinder extension.
Other electrically powered functions include a two-wheel drive transaxle for floor travel,
pushbutton steering, and automatic deployment of stabilizer rails to protect against pot-
holes when traveling with the platform raised. The maximum travel speed is enabled only
when the lift platform is down. When the platform is raised, the travel speed is limited.
The transaxle includes an electric brake that slows and locks the drive wheels whenever
forward or reverse travel is halted. The electric brake is normally applied; the brake dis-
engages when froward or reverse travel is enabled with the joystick. In case of a loss of
battery power, a manual free wheel lever can be used to disengage the electric brake, al-
lowing the lift vehicle to be towed.
Floor travel and platform lift functions are controlled from an upper control box located
on the lift platform. Floor travel is by joystick control with pushbutton steering. Lift
functions are by pushbutton control. Platform lift can also be controlled from a lower
control box mounted on the vehicle base. An electronic level sensor disables all lift and
travel functions except platform lowering if the lift vehicle base is more than one degree
out of level. While out of level, travel can be resumed after the lift platform is fully low-
ered.
With equipment power on or off, turning an emergency lowering valve knob lowers the
lift platform at a controlled, safe speed. The lowering valve knob is visible and readily
accessible from floor level.
Proper lift vehicle operation and safety are assured by performing the scheduled inspec-
tion and maintenance procedures set forth in this manual. The risk of platform free-fall is
eliminated by proper maintenance of the chains, sheaves and sheave pins, a properly in-
stalled flow restrictor valve, and a clean mast. The restrictor valve (non-adjustable) fixes
the maximum rate of platform descent to approximately 0.6 feet per second, whether the
platform is empty or fully loaded. With the restrictor valve properly installed, a hydraulic
hose failure will result in the same maximum rate of descent.
Carefully read and understand all of the safety instructions in Section 1 and all operating
instructions in Section 3 of this manual before operating the lift vehicle.
