The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This information is important for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to successfully work in tight places and congested areas, therefore improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the machinery 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 once your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 could be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner 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 circle's diameter.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is accomplished, next locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the vehicle clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.