The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, which is essential information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to successfully function in tight places and congested areas, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test should start with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they can help to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. After that, 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.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts 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 can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.