The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, that is essential information for the driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to function successfully in tight places and congested areas, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they could help to control the machine's functions. A second individual on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires with 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 exterior tires from the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. After that, 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the vehicle in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the equipment clearance radius.