The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully function in restricted places and crowded areas, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the machine's functions. Another 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 procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure when your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the diameter of the circle. 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. You can determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, 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 diameter of the circle.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the vehicle. After this is done, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the equipment clearance radius.