The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is important for a machinery driver to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to operate successfully in crowded areas and tight places, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground uses 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 continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure, from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 circle's opposite side. 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 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 vehicle in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.