The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is important for a machine driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to successfully work in congested areas and restricted places, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver in the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Then, 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.
After this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure, 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 establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, divide these numbers in 2 in order 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 vehicle in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.