24/09/2014
Ensuring your vehicle's wheels are perfectly aligned is paramount for a multitude of reasons, ranging from safety and fuel efficiency to the longevity of your tyres. In the world of automotive maintenance, precision is key, and this is where advanced equipment like the Josam Laser AM truly shines. This innovative system takes the guesswork out of wheel alignment, providing workshops with a reliable and efficient method to measure axle positions and adjust wheel angles with unparalleled accuracy. By utilising laser technology, the Josam Laser AM offers a superior approach to traditional methods, leading to a more balanced vehicle and ultimately, a better driving experience for your customers.
Understanding Wheel Alignment
Before delving into the specifics of the Josam Laser AM, it's crucial to understand what wheel alignment entails. Wheel alignment refers to the adjustments made to the suspension and steering components of a vehicle to ensure that the wheels are set to their correct angles relative to the road surface and each other. The primary angles that are adjusted are:
- Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the top of the tyre from the vertical.
- Caster: The angle of the steering axis in relation to a vertical line when viewed from the side.
- Toe: The inward or outward angle of the tyres when viewed from above.
- Included Angle: The sum of the camber angles of both front and rear wheels.
- Kingpin Inclination (KPI) / Steering Axis Inclination (SAI): The inward tilt of the steering axis from the vertical when viewed from the front.
When these angles are not set correctly, it can lead to a host of problems. These include premature and uneven tyre wear, poor handling characteristics, a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side, and an increase in fuel consumption. Regular checks and adjustments are therefore a vital part of routine vehicle maintenance.
The Josam Laser AM Advantage
The Josam Laser AM system revolutionises the wheel alignment process by employing advanced laser technology. This system is specifically designed for the precise measurement of axle positions and for carrying out accurate wheel alignment. The core principle behind the Josam Laser AM is its ability to project laser beams onto targets attached to the wheels, allowing for a highly accurate determination of their angles. This method significantly reduces the potential for human error often associated with more manual alignment procedures.
With the Josam Laser AM, all the wheel angles can be simply and easily checked. The system provides clear, unambiguous readings, enabling technicians to identify any misalignments quickly and efficiently. The measurement and adjustment process with the Josam Laser AM results in a perfectly balanced carriage where the wheels, axles, and chassis are all rolling in the same direction. This synchronised movement is crucial for optimal vehicle performance, stability, and tyre life.
Key Features and Benefits
The Josam Laser AM system offers a range of features and benefits that make it an indispensable tool for any professional workshop:
1. Unmatched Accuracy
The use of lasers ensures a level of precision that is difficult to achieve with other methods. This accuracy translates directly into correct alignment, preventing the issues associated with misaligned wheels.
2. Ease of Use
Despite its advanced technology, the Josam Laser AM is designed for straightforward operation. Technicians can quickly learn to use the system effectively, minimising training time and maximising productivity.
3. Comprehensive Measurement
The system allows for the comprehensive checking of all critical wheel angles, providing a complete picture of the vehicle's alignment status.
4. Improved Vehicle Performance
A vehicle that is correctly aligned will exhibit better handling, a more stable ride, and a reduced tendency to pull to one side. This enhances the overall driving experience.
5. Extended Tyre Life
One of the most significant benefits of proper wheel alignment is the dramatic reduction in uneven tyre wear. By ensuring tyres roll straight and true, their lifespan is considerably extended, leading to cost savings for the vehicle owner.
6. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Misaligned wheels create increased rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and thus consuming more fuel. Correct alignment can contribute to improved fuel economy.
7. Time Savings
The speed and efficiency of the Josam Laser AM system mean that alignment checks and adjustments can be performed more quickly, allowing workshops to serve more customers and increase their throughput.
8. Professional Image
Utilising advanced equipment like the Josam Laser AM demonstrates a workshop's commitment to quality and professionalism, attracting more discerning customers.
How the Josam Laser AM Works
The operation of the Josam Laser AM is elegantly simple. Special targets are attached to each wheel. These targets are designed to reflect or interact with the laser beams emitted by the central unit. The system then measures the position and angle of these targets relative to the vehicle's chassis and the ground. By comparing these measurements against the manufacturer's specifications, the system can precisely indicate where adjustments are needed. The laser beams provide a constant, stable reference point, eliminating the swaying or movement that can affect other measurement methods. This allows for a highly repeatable and accurate alignment process.
Comparison with Traditional Methods
Historically, wheel alignment was performed using spirit levels, plumb bobs, and string. While these methods could achieve a degree of accuracy, they were often time-consuming, prone to environmental factors (like wind), and relied heavily on the technician's skill and experience. Modern electronic systems, using cameras or sensors, improved upon these methods. However, the Josam Laser AM stands out due to its inherent simplicity and direct measurement capabilities. It bypasses some of the complexities of camera-based systems, offering a more direct and often quicker route to accurate alignment.
| Feature | Traditional (String/Levels) | Camera-Based Systems | Josam Laser AM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Moderate, highly dependent on technician skill | High | Very High |
| Speed | Slow | Fast | Fast |
| Ease of Use | Requires significant skill | Moderate to High | High |
| Cost | Low equipment cost | High equipment cost | Moderate equipment cost |
| Susceptibility to Environment | High (wind, vibration) | Low to Moderate (needs stable environment) | Low |
| Direct Measurement | Yes | Indirect (via camera sensors) | Direct |
Applications and Vehicle Types
The Josam Laser AM is a versatile tool suitable for a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars and light commercial vehicles to larger trucks and buses. Its robust design and precise measurement capabilities make it adaptable to various chassis configurations and suspension types. For heavy-duty vehicles, where alignment is critical for managing large payloads and ensuring stability, the Josam Laser AM provides the necessary accuracy and reliability.
Common Wheel Alignment Issues Addressed by Josam Laser AM
The Josam Laser AM is particularly effective at diagnosing and correcting common alignment problems such as:
- Uneven tyre wear: Feathering, cupping, or scalloping on tyre treads.
- Vehicle pulling: The car consistently drifting to the left or right.
- Vibrations: Shaking felt through the steering wheel or the vehicle body, especially at speed.
- Off-centre steering wheel: The steering wheel is not straight when the vehicle is travelling in a straight line.
- Poor handling: The vehicle feels unstable or difficult to control in corners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How often should I get my wheel alignment checked?
It is generally recommended to have your wheel alignment checked at least once a year, or whenever you notice any of the common alignment issues mentioned above. It's also a good practice to check alignment after hitting a pothole or curb, or after replacing suspension components.
Q2: Can I perform a wheel alignment myself?
While basic checks might be possible, performing a professional wheel alignment requires specialised equipment like the Josam Laser AM and a good understanding of vehicle suspension geometry. For the best results and to avoid potential damage, it's best left to qualified technicians.
Q3: What are the signs of poor wheel alignment?
Signs include uneven tyre wear, the vehicle pulling to one side, a crooked steering wheel, and a general feeling of instability or vagueness in the steering.
Q4: How does the Josam Laser AM improve tyre life?
By ensuring that all wheels are pointing in the same direction and are at the correct angles, the tyre tread wears down evenly across its surface, significantly extending its lifespan.
Q5: Is the Josam Laser AM suitable for all types of vehicles?
Yes, the Josam Laser AM is a versatile system designed to handle a wide range of vehicles, including cars, vans, and heavy-duty trucks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Josam Laser AM system represents a significant advancement in automotive wheel alignment technology. Its precision, ease of use, and comprehensive measurement capabilities make it the perfect tool for workshops looking to offer a superior alignment service. By investing in such technology, workshops can provide their customers with a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable driving experience, while also extending the life of their tyres and improving fuel economy. The balanced carriage achieved through accurate alignment with the Josam Laser AM is a testament to the system's effectiveness, ensuring all components are working in harmony for optimal vehicle performance.
If you want to read more articles similar to Josam Laser AM: Precision Wheel Alignment, you can visit the Alignment category.