When a technician checks the wheel alignment on a small car or ute, the process is relatively straightforward. They'll use standard equipment to look at the angles and ensure that the front wheels are essentially aligned with the back wheels. While this will usually make the car "neutral" and relatively easy to drive, it's not such a straightforward procedure when it comes to a heavy-duty truck. Why are there so many other things to take into account here, and if you're not paying close attention, what could you be missing?

Moving up

Obviously, a large vehicle like this has several axles and many more wheels than a small car. Each axle has to be checked not just against the other axles in the configuration but, fundamentally, against the chassis side members or an artificial centreline. Sometimes, the chassis itself is not quite "square," and the side members may no longer be entirely parallel. If this happens, the technician will need to create a notional centreline and use that as the starting point for any adjustments.

It's a Process

It's also important to make any adjustments working from the front of the vehicle towards the back. The front steering wheels are the most important, especially when it comes to performance or wear and tear. A technician will need to ensure that the toe angles, caster and camber are correct on that first axle before moving back to the second, third and so on.

Measurements and Adjustments

Still, it's not just a case of taking measurements and making adjustments. The work needs to be done in a specific sequence, and a knowledgeable technician will understand that a significant adjustment at one point may require a new, corresponding adjustment elsewhere.

Not Always What It Seems

Further, an "obvious" adjustment may appear logical, but it can sometimes be counter-productive. Once again, the technician may need to make different types of adjustments based on the physical condition of the chassis and with due deference to better fuel economy, improved tyre wear and drivability. In other words, a specific adjustment shown in a user manual may simply be a reference point and especially when it comes to an older vehicle.

Experts Only

As you can see, truck wheel alignment is a very precise job that must be left to an experienced professional. Yet it's worth taking the time and effort to do this properly as it can certainly affect overall productivity and the bottom line.

Reach out to an auto shop if you need a truck wheel alignment.