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 driver the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to operate successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator in the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins from the tire mark's midpoint 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. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Next, 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.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine. After this is completed, the next step is to 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.