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Tire Alignments…Or Wheel Alignments?

posted on 10/12/2015 1:16:35 PM
Wheel Alignments in Montgomery, ALYou may, at some point, have heard someone refer to a “tire alignment” as opposed to a “wheel alignment.” What’s the difference? 
 
The quick answer is, “nothing.” The two terms are synonymous with each other, like “wheel balancing” or “tire balancing.” 
 
For these purposes, though, we’re going to use the phrase “wheel alignment.” Every car is engineered with wheels that are set at very specific angles, as related to the chassis, each other, and an imaginary straight line. These angles are designed and optimized for the best ride quality, handling and steering response possible, and that’s how your car leaves the factory. Those settings will drift out of spec, though, as the steering and suspension absorb normal wear and tear. 
 

Signs of a Poorly Aligned Vehicle

 
The most noticeable and most common symptom of improper wheel alignment is a persistent pull to one side on straight pavement. That pull is due to a tire that is trying to force the vehicle to one side due to an improper alignment angle. This condition is called “toe-in” or “toe-out,” referring to the direction that wheel is pointed in, relative to a straight-ahead orientation. 
 
That out-of-spec tire will be dragged along by the other tires and will show uneven tread wear as the tread is “scrubbed” along an inside or outside edge. That extra friction and drag also hurts fuel economy (and invalidates tire warranties). 
 
These are a checklist of alignment issues:
 

  • Steering feels heavy or clumsy

  • Steering wheel won’t center itself right away after negotiating a turn

  • Tires squeal even during low speed turns on smooth pavement

  • Uneven wear at edge of tire, or “sawtooth” wear pattern that can be felt with the hand

  • Constant pull to one side, even with proper tire inflation, no crosswinds and flat, non-crowned pavement

  • Need to constantly hold steering wheel off-center to stay in a straight line

 

Four Wheel Alignments

 
Many newer vehicles are designed with adjustable rear suspensions, to facilitate four-wheel alignments. Four-wheel alignments set the front tires’ angles at a proper spec in relation to the back wheels – this angle is referred to as ‘thrust angle.” It’s a more sophisticated and expensive alignment procedure, but it pays off in handling and drivability qualities. 
 
Alignments are performed on a piece of equipment called an alignment rack, with the technician measuring and analyzing all the angles of a vehicle’s wheel alignment and making minute adjustments to bring it back to spec again. Often on older vehicles with many miles on them, suspension and steering parts are worn and have enough play and slop that they may have to be replaced before a proper alignment can be done 
 
To give you an idea of how a tiny adjustment can make a difference, consider this. If a car with a steering angle that’s off by only 1/8” was left on its own on a straight road, with no steering input from the driver, it would drift 28 feet off of a straight line over the course of a mile!
 
It’s annoying and tiring to drive a vehicle that’s out of alignment…and why spend money replacing tires before their time? Have you recently sustained a hard hit on a curb, a pothole or railroad tracks? Are you noticing worn tires or a persistent pull to one side while driving? Give us a call at Don Duncan’s All American Auto and Tire Centers in Montgomery, AL and let us put your vehicle on the alignment rack! 
Categories: Tires 101 | View Count: (170) | Return

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Auto Repair and Tire Services in Montgomery and Millbrook, AL

At Don Duncan’s All American Auto & Tire in Montgomery and Millbrook, AL, we proudly offer a wide range of auto repair and tire services. With unparalleled services from ASE-Certified experts, we provide quality work at an affordable price. Engine diagnostics, oil changes, wheel alignments, brake servicing, and A/C repairs are among a few of the services that we offer. Schedule an appointment online at either of our locations and experience the quality services and low prices for yourself. With quality brands like, Bridgestone, Firestone, and Michelin, you can use our tire finder to find your tires today! We're also the local choice for custom wheels from brands like American Racing, Eagle Alloys, Giovanna and more. Drive confidently with Don Duncan’s All American Auto & Tire in Montgomery and Millbrook, AL.