The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery operator 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 allows the machine to successfully work in tight places and congested areas, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who are not aware of this measurement can 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 needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the equipment'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 equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure once your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior 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.
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 completed, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the equipment clearance radius.