Fr.

Agnel Polytechnic Vashi

Mechanical Department
WHEEL ALINGNMENT
Micro-project report

REPORT ON WHEEL ALIGNMENT

AEN ME6B (B2)

SR .NO NAME ROLLNO
1 Sakshi Aitawade 215112
2 Salman Chaus 215113
3 Sangam Yadav 215114
4 Sarthak Sawant 215115
1.0: Rationale:
This Micro project helps us in knowing about the wheel alignment how it works, its
applications and importance of it.

2.0: Aims /Benefits of the Micro-Project:

Aim is to search about the wheel alignment what is it and how it works where it is
applied , the benefits of it and what are the advantages and disadvantages and also
the application of it. We get the knowledge about the wheel alignment.

3.0: Course Outcomes Addressed:

The theory, practical experience and relevant soft skills associated with this course are
to be taught and implemented, so that the student demonstrates the following
industry oriented Cos associated with the above mentioned competency:

• Prepare vehicle layout with chassis layout

• Select suitable breaking and steering system for different application
• Select suspension system

4.0: Literature Review:

We had reviewed various books to find the relevant information regarding this micro
project. We first searched about the wheel alignment how it works and where it is
used.

5.0: Actual Procedure Followed:

• Clearly define the purpose and objectives of your report. What is the problem or topic
you're addressing, and why is it important?
• Conduct thorough research using reputable sources such as books, academic papers,
websites, and interviews
• Develop a clear and logical structure for your report. Common sections include an
introduction, methodology (if applicable), findings, analysis, recommendations, and
conclusion.
 • Start with a strong opening that provides context and outlines the purpose and scope of
the report.
• Include a clear and concise thesis statement or research question.
• Start with a strong opening that provides context and outlines the purpose and scope
• of the report.
• Include a clear and concise thesis statement or research question.

6.0: Actual Resources Used:

Sr. No Name Of The Specification Qty. Remark

Resources
1 Text Book AEN Text Book
1 -
2 Google Chrome
- -

8.0: Action Plan:

Sr. Details of Starting Ending No of all

No activity Date date Responsible
members
1 Topic selection 3/1/24 17/1/24 1

2 Data collection 10/1/24 23/1/24 1

3 Analysis of data 17/1/24 31/1/24 1

4 Submitting report to 7/2/24 21/2/24 1

To teacher for
corrections
5 Making the 14/2/24 28/2/24 1
Corrections as per
teacher
6 Preparation of 21/2/24 6/3/24 1
report

7 Final report making 28/2/24 20/3/24 1

8 Submission of final 6/3/24 20/3/24 1
Report

9.0: Skill developed/ Learning outcomes

• Due to this micro-project now I can use the computer system very smoothly.
• This micro project taught me, how to prepare a professional business document and
how to create a repots
• This micro project also taught me how to use the internet and its services.

10.0: Outputs of the micro project: -

• Learned about the wheel alignment how toe-in toe-out works what are the
benefits of it and how it works.
8.0: About The Topic:

INTRODUCTION TO WHEEL ALINGMENT

Introduction
Wheel alignment is a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance that
ensures your car's wheels are properly positioned relative to each other and
the road surface. This process is crucial for several reasons, including safety,
optimal vehicle performance, and extending the lifespan of your tires.
Essentially, wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so
that they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground when
your vehicle is in motion. Even slight deviations from the manufacturer's
specifications can lead to various issues, such as uneven tire wear, poor
handling, and decreased fuel efficiency.

There are three primary angles that technicians focus on during a wheel
alignment:

CAMBER:
Camber is one of the three primary angles adjusted during a wheel alignment process.
It refers to the inward or outward tilt of the top of the wheel when viewed from the
front of the vehicle. Positive camber occurs when the top of the wheel tilts outward
from the vehicle's centreline, while negative camber is when the top of the wheel tilts
inward toward the vehicle's centreline
Proper camber alignment is essential for several reasons:

• Tie were
• Handling
• Suspension performance
• Safety
During a wheel alignment service, technicians measure and adjust the camber angle
to ensure it falls within the manufacturer's specified range. This helps optimize tire
wear, vehicle handling, and overall performance.

TOE:
Toe alignment is another crucial aspect of wheel alignment, alongside camber and
caster. Toe alignment refers to the angle at which the wheels point inward or outward
when viewed from above the vehicle.
There are two types of toe alignment:

Toe-in:
Toe-in is wheel alignment to describe the condition where the front edges of the
wheels are closer together than the rear edges when viewed from above the vehicle.
In other words, the wheels are angled inward towards the centreline of the vehicle.
Proper toe-in alignment is essential for several reasons:

• Stability
• Tyre wear
• Handling

However, excessive toe-in can lead to accelerated tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency,
and compromised handling. Therefore, it's crucial to have toe alignment checked and
adjusted regularly as part of routine vehicle maintenance to ensure optimal
performance and safety.

Toe-out:
Toe-out is the opposite of toe-in in wheel alignment. It describes the condition where
the front edges of the wheels are farther apart than the rear edges when viewed from
above the vehicle. In other words, the wheels are angled outward away from the
centreline of the vehicle.

Toe-out alignment can have several effects:

• Agility
• Cornering Stability
• Tire wear
• Steering Feeling
Toe-out alignment is typically used in performance-oriented vehicles or specific driving
conditions where increased agility and responsiveness are desired. However, it's
essential to ensure that toe-out settings remain within the manufacturer's
recommended range to prevent excessive tire wear and maintain safe handling
characteristics. Regular wheel alignments are crucial to check and adjust toe-out
settings as needed to ensure optimal vehicle performance and safety.

CASTER:

Caster is one of the key parameters adjusted during a wheel alignment process. It
refers to the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. Caster
angle is measured in degrees and can be either positive or negative. Positive caster
angle occurs when the steering axis tilts backward, meaning the top of the steering
axis is positioned farther rearward than the bottom.

Positive caster provides several benefits:

• Steering Stability
• Cornering Stability
• Driving Experience

Negative caster angle, on the other hand, occurs when the steering axis tilts forward,
meaning the top of the steering axis is positioned farther forward than the bottom.
While negative caster is less common in most vehicles, it can be found in some
specialized applications, such as certain off-road vehicles or for specific handling
characteristics.

Negative caster can provide benefits such as increased steering effort and improved
high-speed stability. However, it can also lead to reduced self-centering and straight-
line stability compared to positive caster.
NEED/ADVANTAGES OF WHEEL ALIGNMENT:

Even tire wear: Proper wheel alignment ensures that the tires wear evenly across their
treads. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, leading to premature tire
replacement and increased costs.

Vehicle stability: Correct alignment contributes to vehicle stability and handling.

Misaligned wheels can lead to steering instability, pulling to one side, or a drifting
sensation, especially at higher speeds.

Fuel efficiency: Misaligned wheels can cause increased rolling resistance, which can
negatively impact fuel efficiency. Proper alignment helps reduce friction between the
tires and the road surface, improving fuel economy.

Safety: Proper alignment enhances safety by ensuring predictable handling and

stability. Misaligned wheels can affect braking performance and the ability to control
the vehicle, especially in emergency situations.

Suspension health: Misalignment can place unnecessary stress on suspension

components, leading to premature wear and potential damage. Proper alignment
helps preserve the integrity and longevity of the suspension system.

Manufacturing Recommendation: Vehicle manufacturers provide specific alignment

specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regular wheel alignment
helps maintain these specifications and ensures that the vehicle operates as intended.

Overall, wheel alignment is essential for maintaining vehicle performance, safety, and
efficiency. It's recommended to have the wheel alignment checked regularly, typically
during routine maintenance intervals or whenever you notice symptoms of
misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or steering issues.
DISADVANTAGES OF WHEEL ALIGNMENT:

Cost: Wheel alignment services may incur an upfront cost. While this cost is generally
outweighed by the benefits of improved tire wear and fuel efficiency, it is still an expense to
consider.

Time: Getting a wheel alignment may require scheduling an appointment and waiting for
the service to be completed. This could be inconvenient if you have a busy schedule or if the
service center is not readily accessible.

Misalignment Due to Driving Condition: Even after getting a wheel alignment, certain
driving conditions, such as potholes, rough roads, or collisions, can cause misalignment to
occur again. Regular maintenance and periodic alignment checks can help mitigate this risk.

Additional Wear On Steering Components: While proper alignment reduces stress on

suspension components, excessive or prolonged misalignment can lead to increased wear on
steering components, such as tie rods and ball joints.

Limited Adjustment Range: In some cases, alignment issues may be caused by factors
beyond the adjustment range of standard wheel alignment equipment. This may require
additional repairs or specialized alignment services

Vehicle Modification: If your vehicle has aftermarket suspension modifications or non-

standard wheel and tire sizes, achieving proper alignment may be more challenging or
require specialized expertise.

Uneven Tire Wear Indicators: While wheel alignment can help mitigate uneven tire wear, it
may not address underlying issues such as worn suspension components or improper tire
inflation, which can contribute to irregular tire wear patterns.

Despite these potential disadvantages, the benefits of regular wheel alignment typically
outweigh the drawbacks. Proper alignment contributes to improved vehicle performance,
safety, and longevity, making it an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance.