The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to successfully function in restricted places and congested areas, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test should start with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they can assist to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure, 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 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 inner tires. Then, divide these numbers in 2 in order 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 equipment in order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is completed, next locate 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 vehicle clearance radius.