The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, that is vital information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to successfully function in tight places and congested areas, thus enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the machine's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure when your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test starts from the tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the diameter of the circle. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the outside tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter could be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to establish the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
To be able to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment. After this is accomplished, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.