The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to operate successfully in congested areas and tight places, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Prior to checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver in the cab to control the equipment'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 complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been done, 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. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, divide these numbers in 2 to be able 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 establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machine clearance radius.