The Raymond Corp. now offers a PowerSteer option on its 8000 Series rider pallet trucks to significantly reduce the effort required to maneuver a pallet truck, resulting in increased operator comfort over the course of a shift.

The PowerSteer feature is available on the Raymond Model 8400 end rider, Model 8500 center rider and Model 8600 tugger trucks to improve productivity in dock, horizontal transport and low-level orderpicking applications. Raymond is the only manufacturer of pallet trucks in North America to offer a full line of rider pallet and tugger trucks with power steering.

The Raymond PowerSteer option provides consistent, responsive steering among multiple pallet trucks regardless of fleet size because of its AC-powered motor and controls. The Raymond exclusive ACR System reduces maintenance with no wearable parts or brushes, delivers more run time per battery charge, and provides enhanced response to operator commands.

“End rider pallet trucks that have the Raymond PowerSteer feature automatically decrease the power steering assistance level as the pallet truck speed increases,” says Sue Rice, Class III product manager for the Greene, N.Y.-based manufacturer. “This speed-sensitive steering provides operators with greater control and confidence as the pallet truck travels at higher speeds. The PowerSteer motor is contained within the tractor compartment and does not intrude into the platform space.”

Raymond center rider and tugger trucks with the PowerSteer option also feature an adjustable-height handle to accommodate a wide range of operator heights and preferred operating positions. Additionally, center rider and tugger trucks with the PowerSteer option automatically slow down when turning corners to provide smooth, controlled operation.