Maintaining Wheel Alignment in Trucks

Understanding the Mechanics of Wheel Alignment

Heavy-duty truck alignment involves adjusting three main angles:

1. Camber: Camber refers to the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front. Excessive positive or negative camber can lead to uneven tire wear, especially on the edges.
2. Caster: Caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side. A positive caster enhances straight-line tracking and stability, especially under load.
3. Toe: Toe is the most critical alignment angle in terms of tire wear. It describes the angle at which the tires point inward (toe-in) or outward (toe-out) when viewed from above.

If these angles are even slightly out of spec, the result is accelerated tread wear, erratic handling, and increased rolling resistance—each of which has downstream impacts on safety and operating costs.

Signs Your Truck May Be Out of Alignment

Detecting misalignment in trucks early can save thousands in tire and suspension repairs. Here are some of the most common indicators:

• Uneven or rapid tire wear
• Pulling to one side when driving straight
• Steering wheel off-center
• Vibration in the steering column
• Squealing tires during turns

Keep in mind that these symptoms can also be caused by suspension wear or frame damage. However, alignment should be the first thing checked when these issues arise.

Causes of Misalignment in Heavy-Duty Trucks

Given the sheer weight and road conditions trucks face, it doesn’t take much to throw off alignment. Common culprits include:

• Potholes and road debris
• Curb strikes during tight maneuvers
• Worn suspension components
• Heavy braking or abrupt turning
• Improperly adjusted or replaced steering components

Over time, even normal wear and tear can gradually shift the alignment out of spec.

The Impact of Poor Alignment

Increased Tire Costs

Misalignment significantly reduces tire lifespan. Tires may show feathering, scalloping, or cupping—all symptoms of improper toe or camber. Given the high cost of commercial-grade tires, these failures add up quickly.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

Improper alignment causes tires to scrub against the road rather than rolling freely. This added resistance forces the engine to work harder, reducing fuel economy by up to 10%.

Driver Fatigue

Constant steering correction required by a misaligned truck increases mental and physical strain on drivers, which can lead to fatigue and reduce on-road performance.

Suspension Wear

When alignment is off, the suspension system absorbs more road shock than it’s designed to handle. Over time, this can lead to premature failure of bushings, shocks, and steering linkages.

When Should You Check Alignment?

Preventive maintenance is key. Here are some best practices for alignment checks:

• Every 80,000 to 100,000 miles, or at least once a year
• After replacing steering or suspension components
• Following a tire replacement or rotation
• Post-accident or after a significant impact

Many fleets choose to align during scheduled preventive maintenance inspections to minimize downtime.

What a Proper Truck Alignment Includes

A professional alignment for a Class 8 truck or similar vehicle will typically involve:

• Measuring and adjusting toe, camber, and caster angles
• Inspecting all suspension components for play or wear
• Ensuring that axle positions and tracking are within tolerance
• Verifying that tire pressures and sizes are correct
• Calibrating steering angle sensors if needed

Advanced alignment systems use laser or camera-based technologies to produce highly accurate measurements and diagnostic reports.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Proper Alignment

1. Regular Inspections: Incorporate alignment checks into your PM schedule.
2. Tire Pressure Maintenance: Always keep tire pressures within manufacturer specs.
3. Train Drivers to Report Symptoms: Encourage drivers to log pulling, vibration, or abnormal tire wear.
4. Avoid Curb Strikes: Train drivers on best practices for navigating tight spaces without hitting curbs.
5. Use High-Quality Suspension Parts: Aftermarket or worn parts can alter alignment geometry.

Alignment and Suspension: A Two-Way Street

Alignment is not a standalone system. It’s directly tied to the condition of your suspension components—including leaf springs, control arms, tie rods, bushings, and shocks. If these parts are worn or damaged, aligning the vehicle is just a temporary fix. The problem will return quickly.

Before any alignment is performed, always inspect and repair suspension issues first. Otherwise, you’ll be chasing your tail and wearing through tires faster than you can replace them.

Invest in Alignment

Wheel alignment is more than a minor adjustment—it’s a fundamental aspect of fleet safety and efficiency. Proper alignment ensures predictable handling, longer tire life, better fuel economy, and a smoother ride for drivers. In the demanding world of heavy-duty trucking, it's an investment that pays for itself many times over.

If you need proper wheel alignment in Jackson Township, NJ, reach out to S&S Fleet Services today.