Patent ID: 8651797

Claim:
A backrest assembly for a materials handling vehicle comprising: an adjustable backrest structure; mounting structure for mounting said adjustable backrest structure on the materials handling vehicle so that said adjustable backrest structure extends generally vertically over load handling apparatus of the materials handling vehicle, said mounting structure enabling pivoting movement of said adjustable backrest structure from a first position generally adjacent a power unit of the materials handling vehicle wherein pallets of a first size are accommodated to at least a second position spaced along the load handling apparatus from the power unit wherein pallets of a second size are accommodated; and a locking mechanism for securing said adjustable backrest structure in at least said first position, said locking mechanism comprising: a pair of latching members coupled to one of said vehicle and said adjustable backrest structure, said latching members adapted to engage the other of said vehicle and said adjustable backrest structure for securing said adjustable backrest structure in at least said first position; and a spring member disposed between said latching members, said spring member providing a separational force against said latching members to maintain said latching members in a locked position so as to secure said adjustable backrest structure in at least said first position.