The Citizen, 2015-10-22, Page 16PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015.
Aligned, good tires paramount to vehicle health
MS –It is easy for motorists to
take their tires for granted when
everything is working correctly.
Wheels and suspension systems bear
the weight of cars and trucks and
must bear the brunt of rough roads,
pot holes and any additional
obstacles, so some wear and tear is
to be expected.
Many drivers know to monitor
their tire pressure, but it’s also
important to check for worn treads
and inspect tires for punctures or
damage. Proper tire alignment and
balance also is essential for a
comfortable and smooth ride.
• Balance:Balancing tires
involves equalizing the weight of the
combined tire and wheel assembly
so that each tire spins smoothly on
the road. Tires are mounted on the
wheel assembly, and the chances of
this assembly having precise weight
distribution is nearly impossible
without a little help. The slightest
imbalance in the tires, can be felt by
drivers. Unequal mass can make
tires wobble, causing noticeable
vibrations.
Mechanics will test tire balance by
putting it on a balancing machine.
The machine will spin the tire and
determine the tire’s heaviest point.
Counteracting weights will be
placed on the tire hubs to create a
more uniform balance of weight.
Lead weights are often used, but
some are being phased out for other
metals, such as zinc, because of the
medical and environmental
implications of lead.
Tires that are not balanced can
also can lead to uneven wear.
• Alignment: Tire alignment is
another way to reduce wear on tires
and help avoid steering and
“pulling” problems. Tire alignment
is defined as an adjustment of the
vehicle’s suspension, or the system
that connects a vehicle to its wheels.
When tires are not properly
aligned, drivers may notice uneven
tread wear. Misaligned tires also
may cause the vehicle to pull to the
left or right. Drivers who notice their
steering wheel is off-centre or
vibrating when they are driving may
need to adjust their tires’ alignment.
Camber, or the inward or outward
angle of the tire when viewed from
the front of the vehicle, will be
adjusted. In addition, “toe”, or the
extent to which the tires turn inward
or outward when viewed from
above, will be adjusted. Caster angle
also helps balance steering, stability
and cornering. Caster is the angle of
your steering axis when viewed
from the side of your vehicle.
When tires are balanced correctly
and aligned, vehicles will offer a
smooth ride with little to no
vibrations. Having tires serviced can
maximize their performance and
lifespan.
Seniors Get 10% off parts & labour every Wednesday
• Test Antifreeze & PH
• Lock Deicer
• Fill Washer Antifreeze
• Check Belts & Hoses
• Check Wiper Blades
• Check Heater & Defrost
• Check Tire Wear & Pressure
• Check All Lights
• Check Exhaust
• Silicone Door Rubbers
10 Point Winterize
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PHONE: 519-887-6856 — TOLL FREE: 888-351-9193
Up to Par
Automotive
It’s never
too early
for
winter
tires.
Installing now ~
Call for your appointment
today!
625 Turnberry St., Brussels
PARTS FOR ALL
MAKES & MODELS
HOURS:
MON. - FRI. 8 A.M. - 5:30 P.M.
SAT. 8 A.M. - 12 NOON
564 Campbell St.,
LUCKNOW
519-528-2220
1-877-528-2220
After Hours:
519-528-3876
FAX 519-528-2226
BRYAN MARRIAGE
JOHN HOCKEY’S
Automotive Repair
6590 Perth Line 72, Atwood
519-356-9000
Service and repairs to all makes
of cars and light trucks
TUNE-UP TIME
Make sure your car is ready for the road
- brake service - oil, lube, filter
- dripless oil undercoating - battery service
and much more
vernsauto@eastlink.ca 519-357-1997
Vern Steffler ~ owner/mechanic
40486 B-Line Road,
Wingham
Vern’s Country Auto & Leisure
Free Battery & Brake Inspections
Safety Vehicle Inspections
Classic Cars Specialist
All Models - Cars and Light Trucks
Motorcycles & ATVs
Lawn & Garden Equipment
Snowmobiles
Trailers
U-Haul Depot
Service
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Includes: Oil, oil filter, chassis lube and
105 point vehicle inspection includes brakes,
steering, suspension and drive train.
starting from
$5495Alignment makes, breaks rides
Even the most minor imbalances in a wheel can cause
significant wobbling in a vehicle which can lead to
significant damage down the road. Having tires properly
balanced and aligned is the best way to make sure that tires
and fuel last longer and rides are as smooth as possible.
(MS Photo)
MS –Road trips are an autumn
tradition for many people.
Excursions to see the fall foliage can
be awe-inspiring, but drivers must
make sure their vehicles can handle
such jaunts.
Tire inspections are essential
before hitting the open road. The
following are a handful of steps
drivers can take to ensure their tires
are up to the task of fall road trips.
• Give tires the eye test. The eye
test can be an effective and quick
way to detect tire damage. Uneven
wear may be indicative of
insufficient tire pressure or an
alignment problem. Uneven wear
also may indicate the vehicle is
experiencing problems with its
steering or suspension. But many
times uneven wear can be remedied
Inspect tires for safety
Continued on page 18
Carter's
West End
Garage
& Body
Shop
215 Huron St.,
Clinton
519-482-9363
or if busy
519-482-3534
For all your
Winter car
needs!