The lift truck's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is essential information for the driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to work successfully in restricted places and crowded areas, therefore improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they could help to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure when your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test starts 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 the circle's one side 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. After that, 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 vehicle in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next 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 two times the vehicle clearance radius.