Hobbies And Interests
Is Alignment Necessary?
There are a few tell tale signs that the alignment of your ATV is in need of attention. The first is apparent through visual inspection. Sometimes the front tire is so misaligned that the tires are clearly pointing to one side or another even though the steering handles are straight. Other symptoms are less apparent, such as uneven wear on the tire thread, or a vehicle that veers sideways although you're steering straight. If any of this applies to your ATV, it's likely time for alignment.
Tire Pressure
The first step to proper wheel alignment for your ATV is adequate tire pressure for the vehicle. Improperly inflated tires cause two of the same symptoms as misalignment: uneven tire wear and a vehicle that veers in the direction of the improperly inflated tire. With a tire pressure gauge and your ATVs service manual, you can ensure that the tires have the right pressure. If you don't have the service manual, fill the tire with 70 to 80 percent of the maximum amount of air allowed. The maximum pressure is etched on the sidewall of the tire.
Toe Angle
The toe angle of your ATV is the degree to which the front of your tires points toward the center line of your vehicle. Ideally, the toe angle is exactly parallel with the imaginary line that cuts the ATV in half, or 180 degrees. Adjusting the toe angle requires that you tweak the tie rods that connect the wheels to the steering column. Properly installed tie rods screw and unscrew in pairs, so you can adjust each wheel independently.
Camber Tuning
When the ATV wheels face forward, the tires should make a 90-degree angle, or be perpendicular with the ground when you look directly at it from the front. This is called proper camber angle. If the camber angle is off, it is typically apparent via visual inspection or uneven tire thread wear. Adjust the camber angle by lifting the ATV off of its suspension and fix the upper arm of the suspension so the proper camber angle is restored.