The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to function successfully in restricted places and congested areas, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver in the cab 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 unit's wheels. Next, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been accomplished, 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. You can determine the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 in order to establish the turning radius. Be certain 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. Once this is accomplished, next locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.