The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully operate in congested areas and restricted places, therefore enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before testing the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they could assist to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure 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 tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the diameter of the circle. 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 could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, 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 circle's diameter.
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 below. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the equipment clearance radius.