The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is important information for the driver to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to successfully work in tight places and crowded areas, therefore improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
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 equipment's functions. Another 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 machine in a whole 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 done, 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 opposite side of the circle. You could determine the inside turning radius 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 certain 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 machine 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 equipment clearance radius.