No matter the vehicle, your suspension system is integral to your ability to operate it and enjoy a smooth ride. While the suspension system and wheel alignments are essential, truck alignment is vital on heavy-duty trucks and big rigs. For large trucks like heavy-duty vehicles and semi-trucks, the suspension system is more susceptible to wear and tear.
A wheel alignment or truck alignment explains the adjustment of your truck’s suspension system. The suspension system connects the body of the big rig to the wheels and allows the wheels to travel and pivot as required. A wheel alignment ensures the tires remain in constant with the road at the right angle.
Contrary to popular belief, a wheel alignment has little to do with the actual wheels. Instead, it involves readjusting the angles in which the tires make contact with the road, ensuring they are pointing straight and in the right direction. Continue reading to learn more about the wheel alignment and the signs your vehicle needs this quintessential service.
How Does a Wheel Alignment Work
At Consolidated Truck, we have invested in the latest and most advanced equipment to perform fast and precise wheel alignments. We are proud to have recently purchased a new state-of-the-art Hunter WinAlign® HD alignment machine that can quickly perform readings in three minutes. Our diesel mechanics have specialized training, which enables them to accurately assess and correct truck alignment angles. After we use our alignment machine to measure angles, our diesel mechanic will adjust different suspension angles.
Caster Angle
The caster angle refers to the position of your steering axis whenever viewed from the side of your semi-truck.
- If you have a positive caster, your steering axis is tilting toward the driver’s side.
- If you have a negative caster, the steering axis is tilting toward the front.
Toe Angle
The toe suspension angle refers to the degree your tires are turned outward or inward, viewing the vehicle from above. Toe-out alignment is when both tires are angled outward, while toe-in alignment is when both tires are angled in.
Thrust Angle
The thrust angle is a measurement that determines whether the rear axle is aligned with the front and center of the vehicle.
After the angles have been adjusted, we will perform a comprehensive inspection of your suspension system to ensure all other components are in good working order,
Top Signs Your Heavy-Duty Truck Needs Wheel Alignment
There are several potential signs and indications that your heavy-duty truck needs truck alignment. The most common signs are explained below.
Vibrations in the Steering Wheel
One of the most obvious tell-tale signs you need a truck alignment is if you feel vibrations in the wheel. These vibrations are caused by misaligned or out of balance tires. The experts at Consolidated Truck can determine the underlying cause of your steering wheel vibrations.
Abnormal Tire Wear
If you drive around on any vehicle that needs a wheel alignment, the tires will pay the price. A misaligned vehicle causes very abnormal wear and tear patterns on tires. For example, you may notice the tread coming off prematurely in abnormal wear patterns.
Steering Wheel Drifting
When driving down a straight road, your steering wheel should remain relatively straight. However, if your steering wheel pulls to the left or right, it’s often a sign that you need a wheel alignment. Regardless of the size of your semi-truck, keeping the wheel straight shouldn’t require significant effort.
Contact Consolidated Truck in Many, LA for Wheel Alignment Service
At Consolidated Truck in Many, LA, we are your one-stop shop for heavy-duty truck maintenance and repair needs. In addition to wheel alignment and truck alignment services, our highly-trained diesel mechanics specialize in all types of pick-up trucks, heavy-duty vehicles, and medium-duty trucks. We offer exclusive expertise across all industries, including construction, agriculture, refuse trucks, railroad vehicles, and others. As the leading heavy-duty truck repair center in Many, LA, we have invested in the latest and most advanced equipment to deliver the reliable, cost-effective results you deserve.
Contact Consolidated Truck in Many, LA for heavy-duty truck alignment services.
Call us at 318-816-0693, complete our online contact form, or stop by our new location in Many, LA at 1000 Fisher Road.
