The forklift's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, which is vital information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to work successfully in congested areas and restricted places, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before testing the turning radius. The test should begin with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, 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.
After this measurement test has been accomplished, measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure, 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 the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. You can establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 in order to determine the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine. After this is done, 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 equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.