The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, that is important information for the operator 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 machine to successfully function in congested areas and restricted places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Before checking 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 machine's functions. A second individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the machine 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 using a tape measure once your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins 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 outside tires from the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, 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 circle's diameter.
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 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 two times the vehicle clearance radius.