The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machine operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully operate in restricted places and congested areas, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Before testing 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 equipment's functions. Another person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, 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 after 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 the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You could determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, 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 diameter of the circle.
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 completed, next locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.