The lift truck's turning radius is also referred to as the turning circle, that is essential information for the driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. Like for example, a tighter turning radius allows the machine to function successfully in congested areas and restricted places, therefore improving the lift truck's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the machinery 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 can help to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the model's wheels. After that, drive the machinery in a complete 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 utilizing a tape measure once your measurement test has been completed. 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 outside tires from one side of the circle to the opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to establish the turning radius. Be certain 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 machinery. After this is done, the next step is to locate 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 two times the vehicle clearance radius.