The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to work successfully in restricted places and congested areas, therefore enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Prior to checking 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 person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the machine in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
After this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure, from the midpoint of the tire mark 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. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner 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 diameter of the circle.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next locate 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 twice the clearance radius of the machine.