The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to work successfully in congested areas and tight places, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test should begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Then, drive the machine in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure once your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts from the tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You could determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 in order to determine the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the vehicle. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the vehicle.