What is 'aligning' and what is 'balancing' exactly? When aligning, the tracking of the car is accurately measured and adjusted if necessary. This is necessary when the car pulls to one side on a flat, straight road or shows nervous steering behavior. Optically visible if the profile on one side of the tire is less deep than on the other side.
Track and spur
If both front tires are more worn down on the inside of the tread, then there is 'spur'; if the outside is more worn away, then there is talk. This may be due, for example, to the pick-up of a curb, a deep pit that was taken at considerable speed, worn parts of the steering system, after mounting, for example, new steering balls, new suspension arm rubbers.
To balance
Balancing is necessary when fitting new rubber goods, but can also be done after picking up a curb, a flat tire that has been repaired, a big lump of mud on the inside or outside of the rim or simply by losing a lead. '… (Although today' lead 'may no longer be fitted due to' the environment '). Imbalance causes annoying 'rattling' of the steering wheel or vibrating at a certain speed. This vibration can also be caused by a drive shaft that has been given play by a worn universal joint…, an exhaust that has contact with the bodywork, worn engine, gearbox or differential rubbers, but that is 'felt' throughout the car. However, before you start the alignment, it might be wise to check the tire pressure on the left and right first. They must be the same ...
why not talk about caster and camber.
a car pulls through in the steering wheel rather than a track
Tip: check the alignment when purchasing and/or starting the restoration. If something is wrong, this can be taken away immediately instead of having to correct things after restoration. Often a big disappointment. Also applies to the wheels. Check for straightness first before coating.
Thanks for this piece on tire alignment and balancing. Tomorrow I am going to the garage with my new car, a Nissan, and I was not sure the difference. Thanks for the clarification!