The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is important for a machine driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully function in crowded areas and tight places, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer helping in the cab where they could assist to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been completed, 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 outside tires from the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner 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 diameter of the circle.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.