The forklift's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, which is vital information for the operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to operate successfully in congested areas and tight places, therefore improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver in the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
When this measurement test has been completed, 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 outside tires from one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be established 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 certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.