The lift truck's turning radius is also called the turning circle, that is essential information for the operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully function in congested areas and restricted places, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before testing the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they can assist to control the machine's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle 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 with 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 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 could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Next, 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery 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 clearance radius of the vehicle. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the equipment clearance radius.