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Wheel Alignment. R. Bortignon. Wheel Alignment Angles. tire positioning angles are… caster camber toe in or toe out. Caster Angle. caster is the angle created by the tilting of the steering knuckle visualize line thru upper & lower ball joints or thru the strut
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Wheel Alignment R. Bortignon
Wheel Alignment Angles • tire positioning angles are… • caster • camber • toe in or toe out
Caster Angle • caster is the angle created by the tilting of the steering knuckle • 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
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
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
Adjusting Camber & Caster – shims or slots • double wishbone suspension • shims or slots are used to slide the control arm in or out… • before removing control arm, note the number & position of any shims or mark slot-to-shaft location – this simplifies reassembly
Adjusting Camber & Caster - Eccentrics • double wishbone suspension & struts • eccentrics are rotated to alter caster or camber… • before removing components for repair, mark the position of eccentric – this simplifies reassembly
Toe In/Out Adjustment • tie rod end length changes the toe-in or toe-out
care must be taken when replacing • tie rod ends • MacPherson struts • control arms • that wheel alignment is re-established once components have been reinstalled
regardless of the vehicle, wheel alignment is performed to… • increase tire life • improve handling by maximizing tire contact with road • minimize corrections needed while driving • qualified, knowledgeable technician with modern equipment is essential for correct wheel alignment