The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, which is vital information for the driver to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to operate successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machine 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 utilizing a tape measure after 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 exterior tires from one side of the circle 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 inner tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine 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 establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.