The lift truck's turning radius is also called the turning circle, which is important information for the driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to work successfully in congested areas and tight places, therefore enhancing the forklift's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they could assist to control the machine's functions. A second individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a whole 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 once your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins 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 outside 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. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
To be able to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machine. After this is completed, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.