The forklift's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to work successfully in tight places and crowded areas, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test should begin with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they could help to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machine in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure, from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 machine in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the machine.