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Wide VS standard track steer axle turning

Updated: Aug 16, 2020


Wide track front axles truly have little effect on the turn radius on a chassis with a setback axle, so save the money.  If a customer insists on it for the absolute best turn angle, it will not hurt, so you may use it in that instance.


Most OEs have a remarkably similar value when you compare the same component combinations. Exceptions include models where the gears have been re-positioned to change the front-end geometry.


A single steering gear chassis will ALWAYS turn sharper to the left (smaller turning radius) than to the right.  Different brands of steering gears can play a small role, but not worth mentioning.


However, the front wheels can greatly affect steering. Using a smaller inset will move the wheels outboard and improve turn angle.  For example, on a 20,000 lb. front axle, you will get a much better turn angle (or wheel cut) with a 3.88 offset wheel as compared to a larger offset, such as a 5.81 wheel.  


If you need to know an actual turn radius value for a municipal bid, contact OE Engineering.  It is an equation that takes into account wheel cut (turn angle), model and wheelbase. And now....




Believe It OR Not

It is illegal to carry an ice cream in your back pocket in Kentucky.   It's an old law that was put in place to prevent stealing. Not to stop people from stealing ice cream, but from stealing horses. People would stick an ice cream cone in their back pocket to lure horses away. The old statute is still on the books.

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