The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to operate successfully in restricted places and congested areas, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Prior to checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Then, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure, 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 one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. You could determine 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 establish the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment. After this is accomplished, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the vehicle.