The turning radius on a lift truck is also known as the turning circle. This piece of information is vital for a machine operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to work successfully in restricted places and congested areas, thus improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test should start with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they could help to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machine 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 accomplished, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing 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 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. 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.
In order 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 find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the equipment. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.