FAQ

What is the Plate Mount Swivel Caster Model 4A?

The Plate Mount Swivel Caster Model 4A is a zinc-plated institutional caster designed for manually moved equipment with a capacity of up to 400 lbs per caster (1,600 lbs for a set of four). Featuring a 2 3/8″ x 3 5/8″ mounting plate and 2″ wide wheels, it offers greater application diversity with multiple wheel colors and types. Available in 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch diameters, it comes in swivel and rigid versions, with plate or stem mounts, and is a slightly heavier version of the Model 3.

What environments and applications work best for the Caster Model 4A?

The Model 4A is ideal for institutional applications like schools, offices, libraries, retail stores, and light-duty medical settings where equipment is moved manually and intermittently. It’s perfect for carts carrying office supplies, AV equipment, library books, or lightweight medical devices on smooth indoor surfaces. The 2″ wide wheels provide diverse color and type options to match aesthetic or functional needs. For frequent movement or harsher environments, choose heavier industrial casters like Model 9.

What is the load capacity of the Caster Model 4A?

Each Model 4A caster supports up to 400 lbs, allowing a set of four casters to handle up to 1,600 lbs in manual, intermittent use on smooth floors. It’s not designed for shock loads, impact, or abuse, so avoid standing loads at max capacity or rough handling.

What wheel sizes and types are available for the Caster Model 4A?

The Model 4A comes with 2″ wide wheels in 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch diameters, offering a wide range of wheel types and colors for diverse applications. Options include soft rubber, polyurethane, or nylon wheels, allowing customization for aesthetics or performance in institutional settings like schools or offices.

What bearing options are available for the Caster Model 4A?

The Model 4A typically uses ball bearings in the wheels for smooth, quiet operation in low-speed, manual applications. Contact us at 800-501-3808 for specific bearing options based on your wheel choice.

Why choose the Caster Model 4A for institutional applications?

The Model 4A’s 2″ wide wheels offer greater diversity in color and type, making it perfect for institutional settings where aesthetics and functionality matter, like schools, offices, or retail. Its zinc-plated steel frame resists corrosion, and the swivel or rigid design suits light-duty, manually moved carts. For tougher environments, opt for industrial casters like Model 9.

What is the TB Top Lock Brake option for the Caster Model 4A?

The TB – Top Lock Brake (pedal on side of wheel) locks the wheel from rolling, ideal for securing carts in place during light-duty use in institutional settings. It’s not designed to hold on inclines. Contact us at 800-501-3808 for compatibility with your setup.

What is the TL Total Locking Brake option for the Caster Model 4A?

The TL – Total Locking Brake prevents both the caster from rotating and the wheel from moving, providing maximum stability for manually moved carts in schools, offices, or medical settings. It’s not designed to hold on inclines. Contact us at 800-501-3808 for compatibility with your setup.

How do I maintain the Caster Model 4A?

Keep the caster clean of debris and avoid shock loads, impacts, or dragging sideways. Periodically check for wear on the zinc-plated frame and wheels, especially in frequent-use settings. For smooth operation, ensure wheels roll freely and brakes function properly. Avoid abusive environments, as the Model 4A is designed for intermittent, manual use.

Where can I buy the Caster Model 4A?

Get the Model 4A from Caster City’s website at www.castercity.com or call 800-501-3808 for assistance. Lead time is typically 2 days for fast delivery.

How does the Caster Model 4A compare to Model 3 or Model 9?

The Model 4A is a slightly heavier version of the Model 3, both using stamped steel frames for institutional use with up to 400 lbs per caster. The 4A stands out with 2″ wide wheels for more color and type options. For tougher, frequent-use environments or higher loads (900 lbs per caster), choose the industrial Model 9, which is built to handle abuse. Call 800-501-3808 for help picking the right model.

What’s the difference between swivel and rigid versions of the Caster Model 4A?

Swivel Model 4A casters offer full rotation for easy maneuvering, ideal for tight spaces in offices or schools. Rigid versions don’t swivel, suited for straight-line travel, like on library carts—install them opposite the push handle for better steering. Both use a 2 3/8″ x 3 5/8″ mounting plate or stem mount and are designed for light-duty, manual use.

What mounting options are available for the Caster Model 4A?

The Model 4A offers a 2 3/8″ x 3 5/8″ plate mount or a stem mount, providing flexibility for various institutional carts or equipment. We suggest not drilling mounting holes until you receive the casters, as mounting hardware is not included.

What are the overall heights for the Caster Model 4A with different wheel diameters?

Overall heights are: 4-inch wheel: 5-1/4″; 5-inch wheel: 6-3/8″; 6-inch wheel: 7-3/8″. Heights may vary slightly based on wheel type. Contact us at 800-501-3808 for precise measurements.

What installation tips are there for the Caster Model 4A?

Ensure rigid casters are parallel and swivels are level with the floor. Use at least 4 bolts for the 2 3/8″ x 3 5/8″ plate mount, but don’t drill holes until you receive the casters, as mounting hardware is not included. For stem mounts, ensure proper fit. Avoid shock loads or dragging sideways to maintain performance.

Why is the Caster Model 4A not suited for heavy industrial use?

The Model 4A’s stamped steel frame is designed for intermittent, light-duty institutional use, not for shock loads, impact, or frequent movement in harsh environments. For industrial applications with abuse or higher loads, choose a heavier model like the Model 9, rated for 900 lbs per caster. Contact us for recommendations.

Can the Caster Model 4A be used in medical settings?

Yes, the Model 4A is suitable for light-duty medical settings, like carts for non-critical equipment in clinics or offices, especially with non-marking wheel options. Its zinc-plated frame resists corrosion, and 2″ wide wheels offer aesthetic versatility. For heavier medical equipment, consider industrial casters. Call 800-501-3808 for guidance.

What wheels work on a Model 4A?

Gray Soft Rubber, Flat
Gray Soft Rubber ( Crown )
Poly on Glass-Filled Nylon
Polyurethane – Blue/Black
Polyurethane – Maroon/Gray
Polyolefin – Black