The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to successfully operate in tight places and crowded areas, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before 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. A second individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
After this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure, 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 exterior tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. You can 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 in order to determine the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
To be able to determine 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 machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the machinery.