Hey there! As a supplier of Used Tipper Trucks, I've seen my fair share of tipper trucks. One crucial thing that often gets overlooked but can make a huge difference in a truck's performance is the alignment. In this blog, I'm gonna walk you through how to check the alignment of a used tipper truck.
Why Alignment Matters
Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why alignment is so important. A tipper truck with proper alignment has better handling. You won't have to fight the steering wheel to keep it going straight, which makes driving a whole lot easier and safer. It also helps with tire wear. When the wheels are out of alignment, the tires can wear unevenly, which means you'll have to replace them more often. And let's face it, new tires ain't cheap! Plus, good alignment can improve fuel efficiency. The truck doesn't have to work as hard to move forward, so you'll save some cash at the pump.
Tools You'll Need
To check the alignment of a used tipper truck, you'll need a few basic tools. First off, you'll need a tape measure. This'll come in handy when you're measuring the distances between different parts of the truck. A spirit level is also essential. It'll help you make sure the truck is sitting level on the ground. And of course, you'll need a jack and jack stands to lift the truck safely. Oh, and don't forget a set of wrenches to make any adjustments if needed.
Step 1: Prepare the Truck
The first step is to make sure the truck is in a safe and stable position. Park it on a flat, level surface. Use the spirit level to double-check that the ground is level. You don't want the truck to be tilted to one side when you're checking the alignment. Next, engage the parking brake and put the transmission in park (if it's an automatic) or in gear (if it's a manual). This'll prevent the truck from rolling while you're working on it.
Step 2: Check the Wheelbase
The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of the truck. To check it, use the tape measure to measure the distance from the center of the front axle to the center of the rear axle on both sides of the truck. The measurements should be the same. If there's a significant difference, it could mean that the frame is bent or the axles are out of alignment.
Step 3: Inspect the Tie Rods
The tie rods connect the steering gear to the wheels. They play a crucial role in keeping the wheels aligned. Start by visually inspecting the tie rods for any signs of damage, like cracks or bends. Then, grab the tie rod end and try to wiggle it. There should be very little to no movement. If you feel a lot of play, it could mean that the tie rod end is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Step 4: Measure the Toe
The toe is the angle at which the wheels are pointed in or out relative to each other. To measure the toe, you'll need to measure the distance between the front and rear of the tires at the same height. Measure the distance at the front of the tires and then at the rear. The difference between these two measurements is the toe. Most tipper trucks should have a slight toe-in, which means the front of the tires are closer together than the rear. You can find the recommended toe settings in the truck's owner's manual.
Step 5: Check the Camber
The camber is the angle of the wheels when viewed from the front of the truck. If the top of the wheel is tilted outward, it's called positive camber. If it's tilted inward, it's called negative camber. To check the camber, you can use a camber gauge or a homemade setup with a spirit level and a straight edge. Place the straight edge against the wheel and use the spirit level to measure the angle. Again, you can find the recommended camber settings in the owner's manual.
Step 6: Look at the Caster
The caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the truck. It affects the steering stability and the way the truck returns to center after a turn. Checking the caster is a bit more complicated and usually requires a special caster gauge. If you don't have one, you can take the truck to a professional alignment shop. But if you're up for the challenge, you can try to measure it yourself by following some online tutorials.
Step 7: Make Adjustments
If you find that the alignment is off, you'll need to make some adjustments. This can be a bit tricky, especially if you're not familiar with the truck's suspension system. Start by referring to the truck's service manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the alignment. You may need to loosen or tighten certain bolts or use special alignment tools. If you're not comfortable making the adjustments yourself, it's best to take the truck to a professional mechanic.
Conclusion
Checking the alignment of a used tipper truck is an important part of maintaining its performance and safety. By following these steps, you can identify any alignment issues and take the necessary steps to fix them. Remember, proper alignment can save you money in the long run by reducing tire wear and improving fuel efficiency.
If you're in the market for a used tipper truck, be sure to check out our 371 Hp Used Tipper and 375hp Dump Truck. We have a wide selection of high-quality used tipper trucks to choose from. And if you have any questions or want to discuss a potential purchase, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you find the perfect truck for your needs.
References
- Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification Materials
- Various Truck Manufacturer Service Manuals
