Wheel Alignment R Bortignon 1 Wheel Alignment Angles

Wheel Alignment R. Bortignon 1

Wheel Alignment Angles • tire positioning angles are… Ø caster Ø camber Ø toe in or toe out 2

Caster Angle • caster is the angle created by the tilting of the steering knuckle Ø visualize line thru upper & lower ball joints or thru the strut • positive caster helps the vehicle travel in a straight line • helps steering wheel return to center after making a turn • caster does not affect tire wear • caster is adjustable on many cars, but not all 3

Camber Angle • is the tilting of the top of the tire in or out • is used to offset road crown & increase directional stability • camber is a tire wearing angle • camber is adjustable on most cars, but not all • negative camber reduces tire slip when cornering 4

Toe • toe is the difference in width between the front side of the tires & the back side • toe is used to minimize tire wear & increase directional stability • toe is a tire wearing angle 5

Adjusting Camber & Caster – shims or slots • double wishbone suspension Ø shims or slots are used to slide the control arm in or out… v before removing control arm, note the number & position of any shims or mark slot-to-shaft location – this simplifies reassembly 6

Adjusting Camber & Caster - Eccentrics • double wishbone suspension & struts Ø eccentrics are rotated to alter caster or camber… v before removing components for repair, mark the position of eccentric – this simplifies reassembly 7

Toe In/Out Adjustment • tie rod end length changes the toe-in or toe-out 8

• care must be taken when replacing Ø tie rod ends Ø Mac. Pherson struts Ø control arms v that wheel alignment is re-established once components have been reinstalled 9

• regardless of the vehicle, wheel alignment is performed to… Ø increase tire life Ø improve handling by maximizing tire contact with road Ø minimize corrections needed while driving v qualified, knowledgeable technician with modern equipment is essential for correct wheel alignment 11