The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, that is essential information for the operator to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to successfully function in tight places and congested areas, therefore improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who are not aware of this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Prior to checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the equipment 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 when your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 diameter of the circle.
To be able to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment. After this is completed, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.