The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, which is essential information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to successfully operate in congested areas and tight places, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Start the test with having the trained driver inside the cab 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. Then, drive the machine in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
After this measurement test has been accomplished, measure the watermarks left by the tires with 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 outside tires from the circle's one side to the circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Then, 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 circle's diameter.
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 accomplished, the next step is to find the point on the pavement directly underneath. This point to the turning center indicates the machinery clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the vehicle clearance radius.