The forklift's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is vital information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to successfully operate in congested areas and tight places, therefore enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure, 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 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 interior tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine 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 equipment. After this is completed, 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 equipment clearance radius.