The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to operate successfully in restricted places and congested areas, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Prior to checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Next, 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.
After this measurement test has been accomplished, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure, 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 circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 in order to establish 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 determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the vehicle clearance radius.