The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to work successfully in restricted places and crowded areas, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator in the cab to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been accomplished, measure the watermarks left by the tires using 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 exterior tires from one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. You could determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is accomplished, next find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the vehicle. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the vehicle.