Wheel Alignment

Ptribbey · 02-10-2006, 05:43 AM

I had my coach in for a front end alignment because I had a front tire wearing unusually fast. I learned something I thought I would pass along, you should have your rear axle aligned when you have the front done. I didn't know the rear axles ever needed aligning. On mine the alignment was off and they corrected it. Rear alingment off can cause the vehicle to wander, and increase tire wear.

Just thought I would pass this along.

Ptribbey · 02-10-2006, 05:43 AM

I had my coach in for a front end alignment because I had a front tire wearing unusually fast. I learned something I thought I would pass along, you should have your rear axle aligned when you have the front done. I didn't know the rear axles ever needed aligning. On mine the alignment was off and they corrected it. Rear alingment off can cause the vehicle to wander, and increase tire wear.

Just thought I would pass this along.

CHIPPYSGT · 02-10-2006, 07:45 AM

Out of curiosity, what does the whole alignment cost?

"007" · 02-10-2006, 08:24 AM

CHIPPYSGT,had mine done last Nov. front axle alignment $100, adjust for thrust angle, rear axle lines up with front $80. If you have miss aligned axles, someone following you they will say you look like a crab going down the road. Will cause wear on both inner and outer sides of your front tires.

"007"

Ptribbey · 02-10-2006, 12:47 PM

Paid $200 here in Tucson for full alignment. It took about three hours. There is an old felow here that truckers from all over the country bring their trucks for him to align. He takes his time, but when he is done it is done right.

I was surprised that they align the rear wheels, but it makes sense when you think about it. I posted this so if others are going to have their front end aligned they would be aware of the need. Another place in Tucson I had called never mentioned the need for rear alignment.

Ptribbey · 02-10-2006, 12:55 PM

Oh yes, I forgot something important. When I had contacted Spartan they told be to make sure that the ride height was checked prior to having the alignment. I asked the fellow doing the alignment, and he said he always checked ride height first. Again, I would not have known that prior to my research.

I think it good to know these facts going into this so you make sure it is done right. Hope some of you find this info of value.

rgrstndgby · 02-11-2006, 03:07 AM

Pat, If you dont mind, how about passing along the name and contact for the shop( mech) in Tucson...Thanks...rgr...

CHIPPYSGT · 02-11-2006, 03:25 AM

Thanks for the quick response. $180-200 is a lot cheaper than a tire or six.

Doug

Ptribbey · 02-11-2006, 05:01 AM

We went to:

I10 International
2802 N. Flowing Wells
Tucson, AZ 85705
520-622-6767

They are also a Cummins dealer. There is an Allison dealer across the street.

Tom N · 02-11-2006, 05:54 AM

You can do a quick check on your rear axle alignment by driving your coach through a water puddle in a parking lot. Drive straight. Check the wet tire marks. The rear tires should track evenly with the fronts. Measure the distance between the front and rear tracks and that measurement should be equal.

Tom

rgrstndgby · 02-11-2006, 11:35 AM

Thanks Tom, I know where it is, and will use them next time...rgr...

Minisprint · 02-12-2006, 08:37 AM

007 I Live in Hudson Ma I was wondering where did you have your alignment done

"007" · 02-12-2006, 09:29 AM

George, I had the work done at Donovan Spring Co. EXT #5 OFF RT-93, Londonderry, NH.
6 Enterprise Dr. tel-[603] 627-9800
They did work on a Ford I had added leaf springs very reliable. Its about the same distance for you as its for me.

"007"