The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machine driver to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully function in crowded areas and restricted places, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
After this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure, 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 exterior tires from one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 in order to establish the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
To be able to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the vehicle. After this is done, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machine clearance radius.