The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machine operator to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to successfully work in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin 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 model's wheels. After that, 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 after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins 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 the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, 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 diameter of the circle.
To be able to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment. 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 clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.