The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to work successfully in restricted places and crowded areas, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. After that, 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.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins 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 circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. After that, 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 circle's diameter.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is accomplished, next find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the vehicle.