The lift truck's turning radius is also known as the turning circle, which is important information for the operator to have. It gives the operator the information of how much space is needed to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius allows the machinery to operate successfully in tight places and crowded areas, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the lift truck. Operators who are not aware of this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections before testing the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer assisting inside the cab where they can help to control the machine's functions. A second person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure once your measurement test has been done. The watermark test starts 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 one side of the circle to the circle's opposite side. You can establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to establish 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 machinery in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. When this is accomplished, next find the point on the pavement directly below. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.