The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machinery to successfully work in crowded areas and restricted places, thus improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who are not aware of this measurement may 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. Start the test with having the trained operator in the cab to control the machine's functions. Another individual 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 machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
When this measurement test has been completed, measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure, from the midpoint of the tire mark 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 circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter can be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine the turning radius. Be sure 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 equipment in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is completed, next locate the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the clearance radius of the machinery.