How to Extend the Life of Your Tyres With Proper Wheel Alignment
If you've recently had to fit a brand-new set of tyres to your heavy-duty truck, you may have drawn a sharp intake of breath when faced with the bill. Therefore, it makes sense to ensure that those tyres last as long as possible so you get value for money and can continue to operate your business at a profit. You'll need to ensure that your tyres are correctly inflated whenever in use, but you will also have to pay attention in other areas. What do you need to know about tracking and alignment if you haven't paid much attention to this before?
Tech-Driven Adjustments
Modern mechanics have access to a range of advanced technology that allows them to align wheels on any vehicle. In the past, they may have just focused on the front wheels, but these days can align every wheel and tyre on your truck. They may use laser and even imaging sensors to help them understand where to make adjustments. A skilled mechanic can fix the camber, thrust line, caster and toe angles to meet manufacturer recommendations.
Making the Alterations
You may be amazed to discover just how many different adjustments are necessary.
For example, you must ensure that each wheel's camber angle tilts in the right direction. This will typically be inboard or outboard of a centreline, known as negative or positive camber. The driving wheels must also be aligned in relation to each other when viewed directly above. They'll very rarely be parallel but rather facing inward or outward from the centreline, known as "toe-in" or "toe-out."
Other Adjustments
The wheel and tyre must also be adjusted in relation to the suspension components, known as "caster." This basically refers to the way that the steering axis tilts from a vertical line. When it's correctly adjusted, it'll help ensure that the vehicle is always balanced when cornering and will do a great deal to help with stability.
All-Round Alignment
Remember, it's important to align the rear axles of the vehicle as well, even though some of those adjustments may be less complex. This will help ensure that those back axles do not push the front wheels in any unwanted direction, leading to excessive tyre wear.
Paying Attention
Wheel alignment is not a simple job and should be repeated at regular intervals. If you pay close attention, you should help extend the life of those new tyres and not need to pay as much for your replacement rubber in the future.
Contact a truck wheel alignment service to learn more.