The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machine operator to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to work successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before testing the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they can assist to control the machine'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 machine in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure when your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts 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 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. Then, 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.
To be able to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine. After this is done, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the machine.