The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machinery operator to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to successfully work in crowded areas and tight places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test should begin with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they could help to control the machine's functions. Another person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a whole 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 with a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts 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 exterior tires from the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You can determine the inside turning radius 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 certain 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 machine. After this is done, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the equipment clearance radius.