The lift truck's turning radius is also known as the turning circle, which is essential information for the operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to successfully work in congested areas and tight places, therefore improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Operators who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the equipment or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to testing the turning radius. The test should start with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they could assist to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Once this measurement test has been done, measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure, from the midpoint of the tire mark to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 in order to determine the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
To be able to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the vehicle. After this is completed, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.