The forklift's turning radius is also known as the turning circle, which is vital information for the driver to have. It gives the driver 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 tight places and congested areas, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they can help to control the equipment's functions. A second 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 equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires with 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 diameter of the circle. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. You could establish 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 circle's diameter.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the vehicle clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.