Abstract: A material handling truck utilizing a battery box on which a plurality of truck components and controls are sub-assembled in a location different from a main frame assembly station or stations, which battery box is then transported to an assembly line station at which it is secured to the main frame of the truck, the sub-assembled components and controls being then suitably connected to other truck components and controls previously assembled in the main frame to form a truck chassis. The truck assembly is then completed by mounting on one end of the battery box a counterweight assembly, and the other components such as an upright assembly, overhead guard and hood and seat assembly are mounted on the truck. At final assembly the lift truck is adapted to receive a drive or traction battery in the battery box, the latter functioning as a structural subframe assembly of the truck.

Abstract: A material handling truck utilizing a battery box on which a plurality of truck components and controls are sub-assembled in a location different from a main frame assembly station or stations, which battery box is then transported to an assembly line station at which it is secured to the main frame of the truck, the sub-assembled components and controls being then suitably connected to other truck components and controls previously assembled in the main frame to form a truck chassis. The truck assembly is then completed by mounting on one end of the battery box a counterweight assembly, and other components such as an upright assembly, overhead guard and hood and seat assembly are mounted on the truck. At final assembly the lift truck is adapted to receive a drive or traction battery in the battery box, the latter functioning as a structural sub-frame assembly of the truck.

Abstract: A material handling truck utilizing a transverse frame plate on which a plurality of operating components are sub-assembled, which sub-assembly is transported to a selected assembly station on the main assembly line at which it is secured, as by bolting, transversely of the frame of the truck and functions as a structural member thereof. In the example of a sit-down rider electric truck the sub-assembled frame plate may also be mounted for pivoting when the connections, such as bolts, are removed, thereby facilitating truck servicing, as well as functioning when in rigid connection with the frame as a battery retainer plate.