Installing a CarTurner car turntable is a complex process, but with detailed
instructions and proper tools, you can ensure a successful and safe installation.
This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions, covering every detail
from preparing the area to finalizing the setup.
Step 1: Prepare the Installation Area
Before starting the installation process:
Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the installation area to remove dust, dirt, and debris. This ensures a stable and even surface for assembly and operation.
Step 2: Assemble and Secure the Spokes
Position the Spokes:
Arrange the spokes around the center of the turntable so the tips of the spokes are flush with each other. This is essential for proper bolt alignment.
Align with the Center Bearing:
Position the white center bearing piece over the aligned spokes. Ensure the bolts align with the holes in the bearing.
Fasten the Spokes and Center Bearing:
Use the provided lock nuts to secure the center bearing to the spokes.
Tighten the lock nuts using a 7/16 T-handle or socket wrench.
Important: Tighten the nuts snugly but avoid over-tightening, as this can result in bolt breakage.
Twist for Alignment: Once fastened, twist the white center bearing piece to properly align the spokes. Ensure the components lie flat for smooth assembly.
Step 3: Install the Tracks
Install the Innermost Track:
Begin with the innermost track. Insert the tabs into the corresponding eyelets, ensuring each component fits snugly.
Assemble the Outer Tracks:
After completing the innermost track, continue to the outer track, and then proceed to the outermost ring.
The outermost ring will require alternating connections between motor rounds and non-motor rounds. These pieces fit together like puzzle pieces.
Connect to the Spokes:
Attach the tracks to the spokes, ensuring proper alignment around the diameter of the turntable.
Secure the Tabs:
Hammer down the tabs away from the center of the turntable.
Why this is important: Tabs bent inward may obstruct the wheels as they roll, causing damage. Tabs bent outward ensure smooth operation.
Step 4: Position and Anchor the Spider
The undercarriage of the turntable, known as the “spider,” serves as the foundation for the entire system.
Move the Spider into Position:
Slide the spider as close as possible to the desired position. This can be difficult to adjust after assembly, so try to align it near the final location before continuing.
Anchor the Spider to the Floor:
Drill holes using a steel bit and a mason bit, deep enough to accommodate at least a 1-inch blue mason screw.
Anchor the spider at the following points:
One anchor for every spoke between the tracks.
One anchor behind every motor, positioned 1 inch directly behind the welded nut.
Critical Reminder: Proper anchoring is mandatory to prevent the turntable from shifting during operation. Movement can damage the machine, the spinning car, and nearby property. Failure to anchor will void your warranty.
Step 5: Load and Secure the Pie Panels
Start with Three Pie Panels:
Position the first pie panel against the motor’s drive wheel at the center.
Install one pie panel on each side of the first.
Fasten the Panels:
On the center bearing, you will see two hole patterns. Use the tighter hole pattern to secure the pie panels.
Fasten the panels using the provided shoulder bolts, a 1/4-inch T-handle Allen key, and a Z-bar for leverage if needed.
Ensure the washer welded to the panel acts as a sleeve for the shoulder bolt, allowing the panels to move slightly up and down to accommodate the subfloor’s topography.
Align Misaligned Panels:
If the panels don’t align properly, place a shoulder bolt on the opposite side of the panels. Use the Z-bar for leverage to adjust the alignment.
Complete the Installation: Continue loading and fastening panels two at a time until only one panel remains uninstalled.
Step 6: Connect the Wire Harness
Understand the Split Wire Harness:
The wire harness is divided, with power routed to three motors on the left side and three motors on the right side. Power is connected in the middle of your desired motor round.
Route the Harness Properly:
Ensure the harness is routed under the ramps without being pinched. Misrouting or pinching wires can result in electrical shorts or malfunction.
Use the small zip ties provided in your bolt kit to secure the harness to the eyelets around the spring housing.
Test the Motors: Connect power and use the remote to test the motor functionality. Brace your feet on each panel to steady the turntable during the test, as there may be a slight jolt when the motors activate.
Step 7: Install the Final Pie Panel
Position the Final Panel:
Use a Z-bar to maneuver the last panel into position. This may require some leverage and persuasion.
Fasten the Top Plate:
Place the top plate over the final pie panel and align the holes.
Secure the top plate using the provided body panel clips. Push the button on each clip to secure it.
Step 8: Attach the Ramps
Distinguish Between Ramps:
Motor Ramps: These have a cavity and a window for the drive wheel.
Non-Motor Ramps: These have support ribs for stability.
Position the First Ramp: Start with the ramp located one slot to the left of the first motor in the wire harness.
Align the Ramps:
Ensure the cleats on the ramps fit securely into each other.
Check that the wire harness is routed properly and isn’t pinched beneath the ramps.
Secure the Ramps: Tighten the bolts by hand to prevent cross-threading. Snug is sufficient; over-tightening can damage the components.
Step 9: Final Inspection and Adjustments
Inspect for Proper Assembly: Rotate the turntable several times to ensure all bolts, tabs, and ramps are securely fastened. Check for any dropped bolts or debris.
Verify Harness Placement: Ensure the wire harness is routed along the grooves under the ramps and is not pinched. Adjust as needed.
Make Final Adjustments: Check that all cleats, bolts, and panels are properly aligned and secured.
FAQs
Why is anchoring the car turntable essential?
Anchoring keeps the turntable securely in place, preventing it from shifting over time. Movement can cause damage to the turntable, the spinning car, and surrounding property. Failure to anchor also voids the warranty.
What tools do I need for installation?
You’ll need the following tools:
7/16 T-handle or socket wrench
1/4-inch T-handle Allen key
Steel and mason drill bits
Z-bar for leverage
Zip ties for securing the wire harness
What if the panels don’t align during installation?
Use a Z-bar for leverage to align the panels. Fasten shoulder bolts on the opposite side to help adjust their positioning.
How can I avoid pinching the wire harness?
Carefully route the wire harness through the grooves under the ramps. Use zip ties to secure the harness and prevent it from shifting into dangerous areas.
By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure a safe and successful installation of your car turntable. Take your time with each step, and don’t hesitate to test and inspect as you go to avoid issues down the line.
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