The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machine driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to function successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the machinery in a complete 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 utilizing a tape measure once your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the outside tires from one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. You can determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 machine in order to establish 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 vehicle clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the machinery.