The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machinery driver to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to successfully operate in crowded areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer assisting in the cab where they could help to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes 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 procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
When this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure, 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 exterior 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 to be able 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 machinery in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is done, next locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machine clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.