BRIDGESTONE | WHEEL ALIGNMENT
HOW CAN YOU DETECT ANY PROBLEMS WITH WHEEL ALIGNMENT? The condition of the tyres will highlight problems over time, but by then it can often be too late. The tyres will have become worn or damaged and may need to be replaced. Inspect tyres regularly and look for signs of uneven wear. Drivers must be aware of any changes in
vehicle handling and check wheel alignment if they notice any of the performance characteristics mentioned above.
HOW OFTEN DOES WHEEL ALIGNMENT NEED TO BE CHECKED? Whenever new tyres are installed, suspension components installed, when the vehicle has encountered a major road hazard or curb and any time unusual tyre wear appear. As a precautionary measure tyres should be checked for uneven wear prior to each trip. As a minimum requirement alignment should be checked at least once every 12 months on commercial vehicles according to most experts.
WHAT TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT ARE REQUIRED? The vehicle is placed on a specially designed rig with purpose built computerised measuring sensors. The mechanical part of the rig allows the wheels to spin and rotate freely. Sensors are attached to each wheel and chassis in the appropriate mounting positions, the computer compares this to a database of manufacturer specifications for the year, make and model of the vehicle. If wheel alignment is off, an adjustment is made and the vehicle is tested again until it meets specifications. Other than the wheel alignment measuring equipment, the workshop should also contain a full range of standard small tools like spanners, sockets, wrenches, hammers, mallets, pliers and screw drivers to fasten and loosen all relevant bolts, nuts, screws and clips.
WHAT IS THE CHECK PROCEDURE FOR WHEEL ALIGNMENT? An alignment technician/mechanic shall ask the driver of the vehicle if they experience any problems with the handling of the vehicle and take on board any comments. Worn or damaged mechanical components can cause tyre wear or impact the vehicles handling. Wherever possible the technician will attempt to identify if any components are damaged or worn, and will recommend replacement or repair prior to adjusting the steering/axle geometry. Possible issues could be incorrect tyre pressures, track rod condition, worn ball joints, worn wheel bearings, worn steering gear,
damaged suspensions, worn or seized kingpins and possible chassis issues. The technician will fix and locate all
relevant alignment checking equipment to the appropriate positions on the wheels and chassis of the vehicle. Measurements are taken and compared with the manufacture specification for the specific vehicle make and model. Appropriate adjustments to the
steering box timing, steering wheel alignment, track rod ends, drag links, etc. are made and measurements are taken again until all are within specified limits of the manufacturer. Following this, the technician will take the final readings and complete a technical report.
real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS JANUARY 2012
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