Effects of worn front axle suspension components!

Worn front end suspension components = Unusual Tyre wear = Higher fuel consumption.

In this post you will get to know how front end suspension components affect the following parameters!

1. Cause improper front end alignment.
2. Increase tyre wear.
3. Reduce fuel economy and increase operational costs.

Normal Tyre Conditions: 

Gradual tyre wear is normal; flat and even tyre wear is a sign of correct alignment, tyre balance, and proper inflation.

Alignment Purpose:

Alignment compensates for slight normal front suspension tolerance and component wear in king pins, bushings, tire rod ends, steering gear, and springs that sag.

Lubrication:

Regular lubrication prevents or defers wear to these components. Not only it's important to lubricate the front suspension at correct intervals, but it is also very important to use the correct type of lubricant.

Misalignment Indicators:

Tyres with even the slightest edge wear, cupping, or spotty wear are exhibiting signs of misalignment. This misalignment may be a result of either poor alignment settings or worn parts that create a misaligned front suspension.

Tyre Wear:

Heavy, spotty, cupped or irregular tyre wear are signs of components of king pins, bushings, tie rod ends, steering gear, pitman arms, idler arm, shock leakage, or wheel bearings that are out of specification. Below Figure, identify each type tire wear problem.

Energy Savings:

Tyre scrub, a lateral force that pushes the tyre sideways, adds to the rolling resistance of the vehicle. As a result, more energy is required to move the vehicle in its intended path of travel. Tyres are constructed from petroleum stock; therefore, if tyres wear out prematurely, natural resources are wasted.

Balance:

Tyre and wheel balance compensates for static and dynamic unbalance of wheels and tyres. Unbalanced tyres bounce and lose contact with the road. The "heavy side" of the tyre comes in contact with the road and small excessive amounts of the rubber are rubbed off.

Improper Inflation:

Improper inflation, too low or too high, may also result in excessive tyre wear. Underinflating wears out the edges of the tyre and adds to tyre drag. Fuel is wasted due to increased drag. Overinflation wears the tyre in the center. The illustrations below portray road contact and wear patterns when tyres are:

Many heavy truck operators and technicians ignore minor suspension and tyre wear problems. Traditionally, tyre cost has been insignificant to the overall cost of operation. Since the trucking industry has become increasingly more competitive, small incremental costs can begin to reduce an operator's profit margin. Tyre scrub results not only in worn tyres, but also in decreased fuel economy. Technicians must demonstrate to customers superior knowledge of methods that can lower operating costs.

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