The turning radius on a forklift is also referred to as the turning circle. This piece of information is important 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 example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to function successfully in restricted places and congested areas, therefore enhancing the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
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 assist to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure once 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 outside tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. You could determine the inside turning radius 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machine clearance radius.