Tractor-Trailer Turning Radius

[RonMB]

Can anyone tell me how to determine the total turning radius of a tractor/semi-trailer. I know the wheelbase and turning radius of the tractor and the wheelbase of the trailer.

Thanks in advance.

 

[swearingen]

Find a copy of the big Ramsey/Sleeper Architectural Graphic Standards. The information is all in there. It covers everything from trucks to golf carts...



If you "heard" it on the internet, it's guilty until proven innocent. - DCS

 

[jistre]

Also don't forget that the skill of the driver will be a factor in how tight the rig can be turned safely and accurately. Just because the rig can turn in X number of feet doesn't mean the driver can.

 

[rmw]

And caution; some vehicles due to steering linkage geometry have different turn ratios from left to right.

rmw

 

[Gordo35]

If you have critical dimensions to work within, AutoTURN (an AutoCAD based software) will track body overhangs and the course of each wheel. It is rather expensive software, so you may want to ask a friend to run through the condition for you. AutoTURN is superior to the old school template method, but considerably more expensive.
-Gordo35

 

[tomwalz]

If it is a practical matter you might consider weather conditions - rigs can slip sideways on ice. When pulling out of loading dock in cold weather you can be dealing with frozen brakes which can also affect the turning radius.

Thomas J. Walz
Carbide Processors, Inc.

http://www.carbideprocessors.com

 

[macmet]

I was wondering this a little while ago and didn't expect to find a lot of information but if you type "turning radius of tractor trailers" and use the third link you get some really good info...

3.

http://www.thetruckersreport.com/turning_radius_info_for_eighteen_wheelers.shtml#chart

I think there were even some really good links on Eng-tips.

Cheers.