The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machinery operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to function successfully in restricted places and congested areas, therefore improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they can help to control the machine's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
After this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure, 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 can 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 to be able to establish the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
To be able to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is done, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the equipment.