The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is essential for a machine operator to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully work in restricted places and congested areas, thus enhancing the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver inside the cab to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a complete 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 using a tape measure when your measurement test has been done. 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 the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter could be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 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. When this is completed, next find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the vehicle clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the vehicle.