The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is important for a machine operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to work successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the machinery 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 using 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 outside tires from the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You can 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.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is done, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machine.