Gunson Trakrite Alignment Tool

In the world of automotive maintenance, precision and simplicity are often the hallmarks of a truly effective tool. For those delving into the intricacies of classic cars or seeking a reliable method for ensuring accurate steering wheel alignment, the Gunson Trakrite stands out as a testament to British engineering and practical design. Hailing from Warwickshire, UK, Gunson Tools has built a formidable reputation over years of experience, consistently delivering quality products that offer genuine value for money. The Trakrite is a prime example of this philosophy, providing a straightforward and highly accurate solution for checking and correcting the alignment of steering wheels on both cars and light commercial vehicles. This article will explore what makes the Trakrite such a valuable addition to any mechanic's or enthusiast's toolkit.

Understanding Steering Wheel Alignment

Before diving into the specifics of the Trakrite, it's essential to understand why steering wheel alignment is so crucial. Proper alignment ensures that your wheels are pointing in the correct direction, which directly impacts several key aspects of your vehicle's performance and longevity. Firstly, it contributes significantly to tyre wear. Misaligned wheels can cause tyres to drag or scrub against the road surface, leading to uneven and premature wear. This not only costs money in replacement tyres but also compromises grip and handling. Secondly, correct alignment is vital for optimal handling and stability. When your wheels are aligned, your car will track straight, respond predictably to steering inputs, and maintain stability, especially at higher speeds or during cornering. Finally, good alignment can also lead to improved fuel efficiency, as properly aligned wheels offer less rolling resistance.

The Gunson Trakrite: How it Works

The Gunson Trakrite is ingeniously designed for ease of use and accuracy. At its core, it's a platform that utilizes roller bearings. The process involves driving a front wheel of the vehicle slowly onto this platform. The wheels are kept in their straight-ahead, forward-facing position during this procedure. The Trakrite's roller bearing system allows the wheel to move laterally with minimal resistance. This freedom of movement is key to its function. When the steering wheel is correctly centred and the wheels are aligned, there should be no significant binding or resistance as the wheel is rolled onto or off the platform. If there is a noticeable 'drag' or resistance, it indicates that the steering system is not centred or that there might be other alignment issues. This simple yet effective principle allows for a quick and reliable assessment of the steering wheel's central position relative to the vehicle's chassis.

Key Features and Benefits

The Trakrite boasts several features that make it a preferred choice for many:

• Simplicity: Its straightforward design means there's no complex setup or calibration required. It's ready to use straight out of the box.
• Accuracy: The precision roller bearings provide a sensitive measurement, highlighting even minor misalignments.
• Durability: Constructed with quality materials, as is typical of Gunson Tools products, the Trakrite is built to withstand the rigours of a workshop environment.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of cars and light commercial vehicles.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to more complex laser alignment systems, the Trakrite offers a highly affordable solution for a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance.
• British Heritage: As a product from a respected British tool company, it carries the assurance of quality and experience. Gunson Tools prides itself on combining its UK manufacturing base with ethically sourced components from trusted global partners.

Gunson Tools: A Legacy of Quality

Gunson Tools, the company behind the Trakrite, has a rich history in the automotive tool sector. Based in Warwickshire, they are renowned for developing innovative and practical solutions for mechanics and car enthusiasts. Their product range includes other well-regarded items such as Eezi-Bleed (for brake bleeding), ColourTune (for setting carburettors), Carbalancer (for wheel balancing), and Eezi-lap (a valve grinding compound). This breadth of experience in creating specialized automotive tools underpins the quality and thoughtful design found in products like the Trakrite. Their commitment to combining in-house British manufacturing with decades of sector expertise ensures that their tools are not just functional but also reliable and built to last. They aim to be the number one choice for classic vehicle technicians, a goal that speaks volumes about their dedication to quality and understanding of the specific needs of classic car owners.

When to Use the Trakrite

The Trakrite is particularly useful in several scenarios:

• After Suspension Work: Whenever suspension components, steering racks, or even just springs are replaced or adjusted, alignment should be checked.
• If Steering Pulls: If you notice your car consistently pulling to one side when driving on a straight, level road, it's a strong indicator of misalignment.
• Uneven Tyre Wear: Observing feathering, scalloping, or rapid wear on the edges of your tyres is a classic symptom of alignment problems.
• After an Impact: Hitting a pothole or curb, even seemingly minor impacts, can knock your alignment out.
• General Maintenance: Periodically checking your alignment is good practice, especially for vehicles that are frequently driven or used for long distances.

Comparison with Other Alignment Methods

While professional garages often use sophisticated laser alignment systems, the Trakrite offers a valuable alternative for home mechanics or workshops needing a quick, preliminary check. Here's a brief comparison:

The Trakrite excels at its specific task: verifying the position of the steering wheel. It's not designed to measure the full spectrum of alignment angles like toe, camber, and caster, which require more advanced equipment. However, for ensuring the steering wheel is perfectly straight when the wheels are pointing forward, it is remarkably effective and far more accurate than simply guessing or relying on visual cues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Does the Trakrite measure all types of wheel alignment?
No, the Trakrite is specifically designed to check the centering of the steering wheel. It doesn't measure toe, camber, or caster angles.

Q2: How do I use the Trakrite to check my alignment?
Ensure your steering wheel is straight. Slowly drive one front wheel onto the roller platform. If there's significant resistance as the wheel moves onto the platform, or if it feels 'sticky', it suggests the steering wheel is not perfectly centred.

Q3: Is the Trakrite suitable for all vehicles?
It is designed for cars and light commercial vehicles. Very heavy vehicles or those with unusually shaped wheels might require different equipment.

Q4: Where are Gunson Tools products made?
Gunson Tools sources responsibly from trusted partners worldwide and also utilizes its own manufacturing base in the UK.

Q5: Can I perform a full alignment with just the Trakrite?
No, the Trakrite is a diagnostic tool for steering wheel centering. For a complete wheel alignment, you would need to use more comprehensive equipment or consult a professional alignment service.

Conclusion

The Gunson Trakrite is a testament to the enduring value of well-designed, straightforward tools. For anyone working on classic cars or simply wanting a reliable method to ensure their steering wheel is centred correctly, it offers an accessible and accurate solution. Backed by the reputation and experience of Gunson Tools, this device provides a tangible benefit by helping to prevent premature tyre wear and improve the overall driving experience. It’s a tool that embodies the Gunson philosophy: delivering quality and real value for money, making it a smart investment for any automotive enthusiast or professional.

If you want to read more articles similar to Gunson Trakrite Alignment Tool, you can visit the Tools category.