The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machine driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to function successfully in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore enhancing the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Before checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator in the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Then, 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 after your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test starts 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 one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to establish the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
In order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is done, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machine. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the equipment.