The lift truck's turning radius is also known as the turning circle, which is vital information for the driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully operate in crowded areas and restricted places, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who are not aware of 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 helping inside the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. Another person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the machine 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 with a tape measure, from the tire mark's midpoint to a similar point across the circle's diameter. 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. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
To be able to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is accomplished, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.