Proper wheel alignment is essential for optimum tire life and vehicle handling characteristics.
Alignment settings should be checked with the truck loaded. Alignment adjustments can be made on an unloaded truck; however, modifications in the vehicle manufacturer’s alignment recommendations may be required for proper “loaded” settings.
FRONT AXLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Toe-in — set as close to zero as vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations allow in loaded condition. Do not set beyond zero as a toe- out condition will develop.
Caster — set to the maximum positive setting which the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations allow.
Camber — set as close to zero degrees as the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations allow in loaded condition.
DRIVE AXLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Misalignment of the drive axles may also cause rapid or irregular wear on the front axle as well as the drive axle due to constant steering correction. Drive axle alignment should be corrected before front axle settings are made.
Drive axles should be aligned in the following manner:
- Position drive axles perpendicular to the chassis centerline.
- For tandem drives, the drive axles should be positioned parallel to one another