The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is vital information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to work successfully in tight places and crowded areas, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the machine's functions. Another person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a complete 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 utilizing a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts 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 outside 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 interior 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 vehicle in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.