The lift truck's turning radius is also known as the turning circle, which is important information for the driver to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to work successfully in tight places and crowded areas, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the machine 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 helping in the cab where they could help to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires with a tape measure once your measurement test has been completed. 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 outside tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. You can establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, 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 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 done, next find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the vehicle clearance radius.