Vestil OLA-4 Series Balanced Load Lifters

Vestil Manufacturing Co.

2999 North Wayne Street, P.O. Box 507, Angola, IN 46703

Telephone: (260) 665-7586 - Toll Free: (800) 348-0868

Fax: (260) 665-1339

Web: www.vestil.com

e-mail: info@vestil.com

Receiving Instructions

After delivery, remove the packaging from the product. Inspect the product closely to determine whether it sustained damage during transport. If damage is discovered, record a complete description of it on the bill of lading. If the product is undamaged, discard the packaging.

NOTE: The end-user is solely responsible for confirming that product design, use, and maintenance comply with laws, regulations, codes, and mandatory standards applied where the product is used.

Technical Service & Replacement Parts

For answers to questions not addressed in these instructions and to order replacement parts, labels, and accessories, call Vestil's Technical Service and Parts Department at (260) 665-7586. The department can also be contacted online at https://www.vestil.com/page-parts-request.php.

Electronic Copies of Instruction Manuals

Additional copies of this instruction manual may be downloaded from https://www.vestil.com/page-manuals.php.

Signal Words

This manual uses SIGNAL WORDS to direct the reader's attention to important safety-related messages. These messages describe uses of the product that could result in personal injury or property damage. Each signal word corresponds to a specific hazard level.

⚠️ DANGER

Identifies a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, WILL result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY. Use of this signal word is limited to the most extreme situations.

❗ WARNING

Identifies a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY.

ℹ️ NOTICE

Identifies practices likely to result in product/property damage, such as operation that might damage the product.

Safety Instructions

Vestil strives to identify all foreseeable hazards associated with the use of its products. However, material handling is dangerous and no manual can address every conceivable risk. Ultimately, the most effective way to prevent injury is to apply sound judgment whenever using this device.

❗ WARNING

Improper or careless use of this product could result in death or serious personal injuries.

• Read and understand the entire manual before using, inspecting, or servicing this balanced load lifter (the "pallet lifter"). DO NOT use this device until you read and understand the entire instruction manual. Read the manual to refresh your understanding of proper use and maintenance procedures.
• DO NOT exceed the rated load/capacity of your lifter. Capacity figures are provided on product labeling. See Label 320 in LABELING DIAGRAM on p. 7.
• Only use the lifter in accordance with the instructions in this manual, applicable provisions of ASME B30.20 Below-the-Hook (BTH) Lifting Devices, and all laws, regulations, codes, etc. that apply to BTH devices. Ensure all operators are trained & qualified as defined in ASME B30.20. Trainees must be supervised by qualified personnel.
• Confirm lifter compatibility with the hoist & crane (e.g. hook size, capacity, rigging) per ASME B30.20.
• DO NOT elevate the lifter if the hoist rope/chain is kinked. Make sure that multiple part lines are not twisted around each other before elevating the lifter.
• Center and evenly distribute the load on its pallet before engaging the pallet with the lifter. The load must not overhang any side of its pallet.
• Adjust the position of the lifting bale to balance the lifter before elevating it. The forks of the lifter must be horizontal when the lifter and load are elevated. If a load cannot be balanced, do not use the lifter to elevate it. Select another lifting device.
• DO NOT modify the product in any way UNLESS you first obtain written approval from Vestil. Unapproved modifications automatically void the LIMITED WARRANTY (p. 8) and might make the product unsafe to use.
• Avoid load (and lifter) swinging by making sure the hoist rope/chain is vertical before elevating the load.
• Slowly and carefully raise, lower, and move the lifter when it is loaded and when it is not loaded. DO NOT start or stop suddenly. Sudden change could cause the load to slide on the forks.
• DO NOT contact any obstructions with either the load or the lifter. Make sure the path of travel is clear before elevating and moving the lifter.
• NEVER lift people or carry loads over people.
• DO NOT use the lifter for side pulls or for sliding loads.
• DO NOT climb on the lifter or ride on it or the load, or allow others to climb or ride on the lifter or load.
• DO NOT leave the lifter unattended while it is elevated. Land the load and store the lifter before leaving it.
• Guide the lifter by grasping both operator handles. Keep clear of the lifter while moving it. In particular, keep feet out from underneath the lifter at all times. Make sure that clothing cannot become entangled in the load or with the lifter.
• DO NOT remove or deface labels applied to the unit. DO NOT use this device UNLESS each label is in place, undamaged, and easily readable from a reasonable distance. See LABELING DIAGRAM on p. 8.
• Inspect the product as instructed in INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE on p. 7.
• DO NOT use this lifter if it is damaged, malfunctioning, or missing parts.
• DO NOT elevate the lifter more than necessary to move it. Keep it as close to the ground as possible.
• DO NOT use the lifter if it is tagged "Out of service” or is otherwise designated as malfunctioning.

Product Details and Specifications

Two images display Vestil balanced load lifters. The left image shows the OLA-4-36/42-DLX model, featuring a robust frame with two adjustable forks. The right image shows the OLA-4-42 model, similar in design but with potentially different fork configurations or dimensions. Both are depicted in blue.

OLA-4-36/42-DLX Exploded View and Bill of Materials (Part No. 38-006-033)

This diagram presents an exploded view of the OLA-4-36/42-DLX load lifter, illustrating its component parts. The main structure includes an inner frame tube, a center assembly, and a hook bail. Forks are shown as separate components, along with pins, bushings, and fasteners. Each part is assigned a numerical identifier corresponding to the Bill of Materials.

OLA-4-42 Exploded View and Bill of Materials (Part No. 38-006-031)

This diagram shows an exploded view of the OLA-4-42 load lifter, detailing its constituent parts. It includes the inner frame hoist tube, spring balance sub-assembly, fork sub-assembly, and frame base sub-assembly. Pins for height and bale adjustment, bolts, nuts, and retainer rings are also depicted with numerical identifiers linked to the Bill of Materials.

Specifications

Documents that provide specifications for OLA-#-##-DLX models are available online at https://www.vestil.com/product.php?FID=575. Click the "Specifications" tab, scroll to your model, and click the PDF icon (pencil in a blue box) for the detailed specifications document.

Exemplar Specifications Document for OLA-4-42-DLX:

This diagram illustrates the dimensions and features of the OLA-4-42-DLX Deluxe Overhead Load Lifter. It highlights key measurements such as fork width (39 3/4"), overall height (adjustable from 65 11/16" to 89 3/16"), adjustable clearance height (42 1/4" to 65 3/4"), and overall length (50"). Features like the adjustable height pin, new bracket design for easier adjustment, and bale position adjustment are indicated. Standard features include a max capacity of 4,000 LBS and usable fork length of 42". A note emphasizes that all graphics are for reference only and critical dimensions should be verified.

Exemplar Specifications Document for OLA-4-42:

This diagram illustrates the specifications and dimensions for the OLA-4-42 Adjustable Overhead Load Lifter. It displays measurements for overall height (adjustable from 64 3/8" to 87 7/8"), fork spread (adjustable from 17 5/8" to 35 5/8"), fork size (2" H x 4" W), and overall width (40 1/8"). Key adjustment points, such as the bail adjustment pin and height adjustment pin, are shown. The diagram also indicates the bail slides up and is stopped by the adjustment pin when lifting a load. Standard features include a max capacity of 4,000 LBS and usable fork length of 43 1/8".

National Standards

OLA-series products are Below-the-Hook lifting (BTH) devices, specifically balanced load lifters, designed to facilitate handling of palletized loads. American National Standard ASME B30.20 (the "Standard"), which can be purchased online at https://www.asme.org/codes-standards/find-codes-standards/b30-20-hook-lifting-devices, provides inspection, testing, maintenance, and operation instructions for users of BTH devices. Acquire a copy of the Standard. Apply all mandatory provisions of Chapter 20-1: Structural and Mechanical Lifting Devices. Contact local occupational safety and health specialists to determine whether there are laws, ordinances, codes, etc. ("authorities") in addition to the Standard that apply to BTH pallet handlers in the location where the handler will be used. If content in this manual conflicts with provisions in authorities or the Standard, apply the provisions from the authorities or Standard. Contact TECHNICAL SERVICE to report conflicts.

Using the Lifter

This lifter is a below-the-hook lifting device, design category B (used for loads and variations which are severe and not accurately defined), service class 1 (20,001 to 100,000 load cycles). It should only be operated by qualified personnel. ASME B30.20 defines qualified person as "a person who, by the possession of a recognized degree in an applicable field or certificate of professional standing, or who, by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter at hand." Qualified persons include designated persons, trainees under the direct supervision of a designated person, maintenance personnel, test personnel, and inspectors.

Adjusting the Lifter

Height and width of OLA-series lifters are adjustable.

• Height adjustments: Remove the height adjustment pin (99-112-057). Pull the inner frame tube up. Align the pin holes in the inner and outer frame tubes; then reinstall the height adjustment pin.
• Width adjustments: Each fork is independently adjustable.
  • OLA-4-42: Pull up on the detent pin and turn the top of the pin 90° to hold it in the raised position. Slide the fork along the frame. Lock the fork in the new position by releasing the detent pin. Adjust the position of the fork by sliding it along the frame until the detent pin seats into the nearest pin hole in the frame. The forks must be the same distance from the centerline.
  • OLA-4-36-DLX & OLA-4-42-DLX: Slide the forks along the lifter carriage. Position the forks the same distance away from the outer tube of the frame.

Loading the Lifter

Make sure that loads are centered and evenly distributed on their pallets. Make sure that loads are securely bound to their pallets before lifting them. If loose items fall off of the pallet while the lift is underway, people could be injured. The center of gravity of the load also changes if load items fall off of a pallet. Shifting center of gravity could cause the lifter to tip and the rest of the load could be lost.

1. Attach the hoist hook to the connection link (OLA-4-42) or bale (OLA-4-36/42-DLX).
2. Stand behind the lifter. Grasp both operator handles. Fully insert the forks into the fork channels of the pallet.
3. Slowly raise the lifter. Check load balance and stability. The forks should be level front-to-back and side-to-side. If the lifter tilts forward or backward, the position of the lifting bale must be adjusted.
   • a. OLA-4-42: Remove the bale adjustment pin. Slide the bale along the lifting arm. Reinstall the pin.
     • i. Lifter tilts forward (fork tips down): Shift the bale towards the free end of the lifting arm.
     • ii. Lifter tilts backward: Shift the bale towards the back of the lifting arm.
   • b. OLA-4-36-DLX & OLA-4-42-DLX: Slide the bale along the lifting arm and seat the bale pin into one of the pin slots in the underside of the lifting arm.
     • i. Lifter tilts forward (fork tips down): Shift bale mechanism towards the free end of the lifting arm.
     • ii. Lifter tilts backwards (fork tips up): Shift bale towards the back of the lifting arm.
4. Minimize swinging! Make sure that the hoist is centered above the bale, i.e. hoist chain/rope is vertical. If the hoist chain/rope is not vertical, the lifter will swing as it is elevated.
5. Slowly raise the lifter. Watch the device as it elevates. If the lifter begins to tilt forwards or backwards, return the lifter to the ground and adjust bale position as described in step 3. Raise the lifter again to determine whether it is balanced. If balance has been achieved, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, try again to balance the lifter. If the lifter cannot be balanced, use another lifting device to handle the load.
6. Stand behind the lifter. Grasp both operator handles and gradually begin pushing the lifter in the necessary direction. Avoid sudden starts and stops.
7. Lower the lifter onto even, level ground. Make sure that the pallet and load are stable and entirely supported by the ground.
8. Raise the lifter just enough to carefully withdraw the forks from the pallet. Before leaving the lifter, lower it to the ground and disconnect the hoist chain/rope from the bale.

Diagrams for Using the Lifter:

OLA-4-42 Diagram: This diagram illustrates the OLA-4-42 load lifter, highlighting key operational and adjustment points. 'A' indicates the Bale and Bale adjustment pin, used to balance the lifter. 'B' points to the Height adjustment pin, used to set the lifting height. 'C' denotes the Detent pin, used for fork width adjustment. The diagram also shows the connection link, front of the lifting arm, and operator handle.

OLA-4-36/42-DLX Diagram: This diagram depicts the OLA-4-36/42-DLX load lifter, focusing on adjustment and operational features. 'A' marks the Front of the lifting arm and the Bale loop, which connects to the hoist. 'B' indicates the Operator handle and the Fork. The diagram also shows the Bale pin and Height adjustment pin, used for balancing and height adjustment respectively. A retaining clip is also visible.

Record of Satisfactory Condition (The "Record")

Record the condition of the lifter before putting it into regular service. Thoroughly photograph the unit from multiple angles. Include close range photos of all labeling, the forks, bale loops and pins, width adjustment pins, height adjustment pins, and all welds. Measure the length and width of the bale opening and connecting link (OLA-4-42). Record your measurements. Write a description of the overall condition of the lifter. Collate the photographs and writings into a single file. Mark the file appropriately to identify it. The file is a record of the lifter in satisfactory condition. Compare the results of all inspections to this RECORD to determine whether the unit is in satisfactory condition. If the lifter is not in satisfactory condition, repair it before returning it to service. Purely cosmetic changes, like damaged paint/powdercoat, do not constitute changes from satisfactory condition. However, touchup paint should be applied to all affected areas as soon as cosmetic damage occurs to prevent rusting and corrosion. If left unaddressed, rust/corrosion will degrade the condition of the lifter and could make it unsafe to use.

Load Tests

After creating a RECORD OF SATISFACTORY CONDITION and before using the lifter for the first time, a qualified person should conduct a load test. The test load should be 125% of the rated load, i.e. 4000lb.x1.25 = 5000lb. (2272.7kg). Elevate the lifter a few inches above the ground. After a couple minutes, return it to the ground and unload it. Perform a Monthly Inspection as described in INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE on p. 7. The (qualified) person performing the test must compose a written report confirming the load rating of the lifter. The load rating should not be more than 80% of the test load. The lifter must undergo load testing whenever it is repaired. Never modify the lifter without first obtaining written approval from Vestil.

Inspections and Maintenance

NOTICE Regular inspections and maintenance are essential. Always inspect and maintain this product in accordance with the instructions in this manual.

Inspections and repairs should be performed by qualified persons. Compare the results of each inspection to the RECORD OF SATISFACTORY CONDITION. Do not use the lifter unless all parts are in satisfactory condition. Replace parts that are not in satisfactory condition before returning the lifter to service. Only use manufacturer-approved replacement parts to restore the unit to satisfactory condition. DON'T GUESS! If you have any questions about the condition of your lifter, contact the TECHNICAL SERVICE department. The phone number is provided on the cover page of this manual. Never make temporary repairs of damaged or missing parts.

Every lift

• The operator must inspect the lifter before every lift. Closely inspect the bale mechanisms. Check the bale loop and bale pin for cracks, elongation, warps, and other forms of damage. Confirm that the bale mechanism is securely pinned in place. Remove debris from the surfaces of the forks.

Monthly Inspections

At least once per month a qualified person must perform the following inspections. Written reports should be prepared for every monthly inspection including inspections following LOAD TESTS.

1. Frame elements: Examine all frame elements (inner frame tube; outer frame tube; fork carriage) for deformation, cracks, severe wear, corrosion/rusting, and metal fatigue. If rusting is purely superficial, remove it with a steel bristle brush or steel wool. Clean the affected area and apply touchup paint. If rusting, rot, or thinning has weakened the material, contact TECHNICAL SERVICE for advice.
2. Pins and fasteners: Examine all pins (bale pin; height adjustment pin; width adjustment pins). Pins should be straight. Examine retaining clips (used to secure pins in place). Confirm that both detent pins (OLA-4-42) automatically seat into pin holes in the frame.
3. Bale assembly: Measure the length and width of the bale opening and connecting link. Make sure the measurements match the measurements in the RECORD.
4. Forks: Thoroughly examine both forks. Look for cracks and severe wear. Confirm that each fork attaches normally to the carriage.
5. Labels: Check all labels. Labels are shown in the LABELING DIAGRAM (below). Replace labels that are missing, damaged, or not easily readable.

LABELING DIAGRAM

Label content and location are subject to change so your product might not be labeled exactly as shown. Compare the diagram below with the RECORD. If you have any questions about labeling, contact TECHNICAL SERVICE. Replace all labels that are damaged, missing, or not easily readable (e.g. faded). To order replacement labels, contact the technical service and parts department online at http://www.vestilmfg.com/parts_info.htm. Alternatively, request replacement parts and/or service by calling (260) 665-7586 and asking the operator to connect you to TECHNICAL SERVICE.

This diagram illustrates the placement and types of labels found on the Vestil load lifters.

• Label A (991): Located on the side of the frame, it reads 'FORKS ON THIS SIDE' and includes a mirrored text version.
• Label B (675): A prominent warning label providing safety instructions in both English and Spanish. It includes warnings such as 'DO NOT exceed rated capacity', 'DO NOT use if damaged', 'DO NOT lift people', and 'STAY CLEAR of suspended loads'. Spanish translation: 'NO exceda la capacidad tasada', 'NO USE si las partes estan dañadas, no funcionan correctamente o faltan partes.', 'NO eleve al personal o eleve cargas sobre el personal', 'MANTENGASE alejado de las cargas suspendidas'.
• Label C (531): Another warning label with instructions in English and Spanish regarding bale pin placement, moving an empty lifter, inserting pins, and keeping clear of pinch points. It also advises consulting the owner's manual. Spanish translation: 'PONGA EL PASADOR DE PARADA BAIL EN EL AGUJERO QUE PARARA EL BAIL SOBRE EL CENTRO DE LA CARGA', 'PONGA EL PASADOR DE PARADA BAIL EN EL PRIMER AGUJERO CUANDO SE MUEVA EL ELEVADOR VACIO', 'INSERTE LOS PASADORES COMPLETAMENTE ANTES DE ELEVAR', 'MANTENGASE ALEJADO DEL PUNTO DE CORTE EN LA CIMA', 'APARTESE CUANDO SE ELEVE', 'CONSULTE CON EL MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO ANTES DE USAR'.
• Label D (320): This label provides essential product identification, including Model Number, Rated Load (in lbs and kgs), Weight of Lifter (in lbs and kgs), and Serial Number. It also indicates the BTH Design Category and Service Category.

Limited Warranty

Vestil Manufacturing Company ("Vestil") warrants this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship during the warranty period. Our warranty obligation is to provide a replacement for a defective, original part covered by the warranty after we receive a proper request from the Warrantee (you) for warranty service.

Who may request service?

Only a warrantee may request service. You are a warrantee if you purchased the product from Vestil or from an authorized distributor AND Vestil has been fully paid.

Definition of “original part”?

An original part is a part used to make the product as shipped to the Warrantee.

What is a "proper request"?

A request for warranty service is proper if Vestil receives: 1) a photocopy of the Customer Invoice that displays the shipping date; AND 2) a written request for warranty service including your name and phone number. Send requests by one of the following methods:

• US Mail: Vestil Manufacturing Company, 2999 North Wayne Street, PO Box 507, Angola, IN 46703
• Fax: (260) 665-1339
• Email: info@vestil.com (Enter "Warranty service request" in subject field.)
• Phone: (260) 665-7586

In the written request, list the parts believed to be defective and include the address where replacements should be delivered. After Vestil receives your request for warranty service, an authorized representative will contact you to determine whether your claim is covered by the warranty. Before providing warranty service, Vestil will require you to send the entire product, or just the defective part (or parts), to its facility in Angola, IN.

What is covered under the warranty?

The warranty covers defects in the following original, dynamic parts: motors, hydraulic pumps, motor controllers, and cylinders. It also covers defects in original parts that wear under normal usage conditions ("wearing parts"), such as bearings, hoses, wheels, seals, brushes, and batteries.

How long is the warranty period?

The warranty period for original dynamic components is 90 days. For wearing parts, the warranty period is 90 days. Both warranty periods begin on the date Vestil ships the product to the Warrantee. If the product was purchased from an authorized distributor, the periods begin when the distributor ships the product. Vestil may, at its sole discretion, extend a warranty period for products shipped from authorized distributors by up to 30 days to account for shipping time.

If a defective part is covered by the warranty, what will Vestil do to correct the problem?

Vestil will provide an appropriate replacement for any covered part. An authorized representative of Vestil will contact you to discuss your claim.

What is not covered by the warranty?

The Warrantee (you) are responsible for paying labor costs and freight costs to return the product to Vestil for warranty service.

Events that automatically void this Limited Warranty.

• Misuse;
• Negligent assembly, installation, operation or repair;
• Installation/use in corrosive environments;
• Inadequate or improper maintenance;
• Damage sustained during shipping;
• Collisions or other accidents that damage the product;
• Unauthorized modifications: Do not modify the product IN ANY WAY without first receiving written authorization from Vestil.

Do any other warranties apply to the product?

Vestil Manufacturing Co. makes no other express warranties. All implied warranties are disclaimed to the extent allowed by law. Any implied warranty not disclaimed is limited in scope to the terms of this Limited Warranty. Vestil makes no warranty or representation that this product complies with any state or local design, performance, or safety code or standard. Noncompliance with any such code or standard is not a defect in material or workmanship.