The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This information is important for a machinery operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. 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. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machine.
Prior to testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator inside the cab 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 unit's wheels. Next, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
When this measurement test has been accomplished, 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 one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, 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.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is done, next find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.