Product Description
Lock Washer
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a VL 216 lock washer do on a manual pallet jack?
A: VL 216 is a split lock washer (or toothed lock washer) that prevents bolts and screws from loosening due to vibration and movement. On manual pallet jacks, lock washers are placed under fastener heads to maintain tension on handle assemblies, brake components, wheel mounts, and other critical joints.
Q: What material is VL 216 lock washer made from?
A: VL 216 is typically hardened steel with zinc plating for corrosion resistance. The hardness of lock washers is critical to their function, as softer materials cannot maintain spring tension and will not prevent fastener loosening over time.
Q: How does a lock washer differ from a standard flat washer like VL 213?
A: VL 216 lock washers have teeth, waves, or split edges that bite into bolt heads and surface material, creating friction and spring tension to resist vibration-induced loosening. Standard flat washers (VL 213) distribute load but do not provide this locking function. Use lock washers on connections subject to vibration.
Q: Which manual pallet jack brands use VL 216 lock washers?
A: VL 216 is compatible with manual pallet jacks from Crown, Toyota, Raymond, Yale, Hyster, Clark, Linde, Jungheinrich, and other major OEMs. Verify the washer inner diameter matches your fastener size. Different models may use different lock washer sizes for their specific hardware.
Q: When should a VL 216 lock washer be replaced?
A: Replace VL 216 if the locking teeth are flattened, worn, or if the washer no longer grips the surface when tightened. Severely corroded or cracked lock washers cannot function and must be replaced. Replace lock washers after removal, especially if they were tightened multiple times or bent during removal.
Q: What is the lifespan of VL 216 lock washers on a manual pallet jack?
A: Under typical warehouse use, VL 216 lock washers provide 3 to 7 years of reliable service. Lifespan depends on vibration exposure and environmental conditions. High-vibration areas or corrosive environments may require more frequent replacement. Inspect lock washers during routine maintenance to confirm they are not flattened or corroded.
