The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is essential information for the driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to operate successfully in tight places and crowded areas, thus enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver in the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Then, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary 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 begins 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 exterior tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 in order to establish the turning radius. Be certain 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 vehicle. 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 machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.