The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is important for a machine operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to operate successfully in congested areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they can help to control the equipment's functions. A second person 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 machinery 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 with 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 outside tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior 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 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 machine. After this is accomplished, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machine clearance radius.