The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully operate in tight places and crowded areas, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer helping in the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Then, drive the equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary 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 starts 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 one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 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 equipment. After this is completed, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the equipment.