WHEEL BALANCING II. A balanced tyre is one where mass of the tyre, when mounted on its wheel and the vehicle’s axle is uniformly distributed around the axle (its center of rotation). TYPES OF IMBALANCE Static Imbalance: Vertical movement resulting from heavy or light spots in a tyre in such cases tyre won’t roll evenly and the tyre/wheel assembly undergoes an up-and-down movement. Dynamic Imbalance: Lateral movement (wobble or shimmy) resulting from unequal weight on both sides of the tyre and wheel/rim assembly’s circumferential centerline. The wheel should always be balanced and aligned in order to provide: 1. Enhanced tyre life. 2. Driving safety and steering control 3. Better performance of the vehicle Unbalanced tyre may lead to premature tyre wear and driver fatigue due to vibration. Tyres should always be balanced when: 1. They are mounted on wheels for the first time 2. When they are remounted after repair or 3. When there are signs of shimmy or vibrations. A vehicle is said to be properly aligned when all suspension and steering components are sound and when tyre and wheel assemblies are running straight and true. Proper alignment is necessary for even tread wear and precise steering. Uneven front or rear tyre wear can lead to misalignment. Following precautions should be taken while balancing wheel: Deposits of mud, dust etc. must be cleaned • from inside of the rim. Remove stones from tread, clean the tyre and • rim before balancing to achieve better results. Each tyre should be inspected for any damage. • Do not use more than one balance weight on • one side. Use coated weights on aluminum wheels/rims • to prevent damage to the finish. The type of balance weights, when used, must • be in accordance with the profile of the rim flange. NOTE For balancing wheel, follow the manufacturer’s (of balancing machine) manual for balancing instructions, recommendations and any other additional information. Wheels and Tyres 14
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