The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully work in crowded areas and tight places, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator in the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary 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 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 inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to establish the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is accomplished, next find 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 clearance radius of the vehicle.