The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machinery 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 allows the equipment to successfully operate in congested areas and tight places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test should begin with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they can help to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure after your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 circle's opposite side. You can establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine the turning radius. Be sure 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. When this is accomplished, next locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machine clearance radius.