The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is important for a machine driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to function successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver in 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. Then, drive the machinery in a whole 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 using a tape measure once your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 circle's opposite side. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine 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 machinery in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the vehicle clearance radius.