The turning radius on a lift truck is also referred to as the turning circle. This piece of information is important 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 instance, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to function successfully in tight places and crowded areas, therefore improving the maneuverability of the lift truck. Drivers who do not know this measurement could cause damage to the property or to the machinery.
Prior to checking the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it needs adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained driver in the cab to control the equipment's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the unit's wheels. After that, drive the equipment in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires using a tape measure when your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins 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 outside 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 in order 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 determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the equipment. 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 equipment clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the machinery clearance radius.