What initial step should be taken to detect softfoot with a dial indicator?

The appropriate initial step to detect softfoot with a dial indicator involves ensuring that all bolts are torqued evenly before taking measurements. This is important because if the bolts securing the equipment or machine are not evenly tight, it can cause distortion in the base, leading to inaccurate readings when trying to detect softfoot conditions. When the machine is torqued improperly, it may not be resting evenly on its feet, which can mask the true condition of the softfoot.

By ensuring that the bolts are evenly torqued, the machinery will be in a stable condition, allowing for more accurate measurements with the dial indicator. This uniform pressure across the machine provides a consistent baseline from which to detect any softfoot, as the readings will reflect any slight variations or discrepancies due to misalignment or softfoot conditions without being influenced by uneven bolt tension.

The other options include steps that might complicate the process or provide misleading information. For instance, loosening all bolts can lead to further instability, while checking multiple feet simultaneously doesn't allow for a focused assessment of each foot's condition. Measuring sag before starting the alignment might provide additional insights but isn't specifically aimed at detecting the immediate condition of softfoot.