30/04/2006
Ensuring your vehicle's wheels are correctly aligned, often referred to as 'tracking', is a crucial aspect of automotive maintenance. Misaligned wheels can lead to a host of problems, including accelerated tyre wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling. For the enthusiastic home mechanic or the cost-conscious car owner, achieving accurate wheel alignment has historically been a challenge, often requiring trips to specialist garages. However, the advent of user-friendly diagnostic tools has begun to democratise this essential service. One such innovation is the Gunson Trakrite Laser System, a tool designed to bring quick and easy front wheel alignment diagnosis to the home user.
Understanding Wheel Tracking
Wheel tracking, or rather wheel alignment, refers to the precise angles of your wheels relative to the vehicle and to each other. The most common adjustment checked by systems like the Trakrite is 'toe'. 'Toe' is the angle of the wheels when viewed from above. If the front of the wheels point slightly inwards, it's called 'toe-in'. If they point slightly outwards, it's 'toe-out'. Both extremes can cause significant issues. Incorrect tracking can manifest as the car pulling to one side, uneven tyre wear (often described as 'feathering' or 'scalloping'), and a general feeling of instability.
The Gunson Trakrite Laser System: A Closer Look
The Trakrite Laser System, part number 77113, is positioned as a straightforward solution for diagnosing front wheel alignment. It boasts a design that caters to vehicles with low ground clearance, requiring as little as 100mm of space beneath the car. This makes it suitable for a wide range of modern vehicles, including those with lowered suspension. Furthermore, its compatibility extends to large alloy wheels, up to 22 inches in diameter, a common feature on many contemporary cars.
How it Works: The Laser Precision
The core of the Trakrite system's accuracy lies in its use of a low-radiation laser beam. This beam is directed from a unit mounted on one wheel to a target on the opposite wheel. By measuring the distance between the laser emitter and the target at different points, the system can accurately determine the 'toe' angle of the wheels. The system is designed for simplicity, allowing for setup within minutes. The laser provides a clear visual indication of any toe-in or toe-out condition, making the diagnosis process intuitive even for those new to wheel alignment checks.
Key Benefits of Correct Tracking
The advantages of maintaining proper wheel alignment are substantial and directly impact your wallet and driving experience. The Trakrite system aims to help users achieve these benefits:
- Reduced Tyre Wear: This is arguably the most significant benefit. When wheels are not aligned, they are essentially fighting against each other as the car moves. This scrubbing action causes uneven and premature wear on the tyre tread. Correct alignment ensures that tyres roll in a straight line, significantly extending their lifespan. Tyre wear is a major expense for any car owner, and proper tracking is a simple way to mitigate this.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels create increased rolling resistance. Imagine trying to push a shopping trolley with a wonky wheel – it takes more effort. Similarly, misaligned car wheels require the engine to work harder to maintain speed, leading to higher fuel consumption. Even a small amount of misalignment can have a noticeable impact on your MPG.
- Enhanced Handling and Safety: Correctly aligned wheels contribute to a car's stability and responsiveness. A vehicle with good tracking will feel more planted on the road, track straight without the driver needing to constantly correct the steering, and offer more predictable handling during cornering. This directly translates to a safer driving experience.
Ease of Use for the Home Mechanic
The Trakrite Laser System is specifically designed with the DIY enthusiast in mind. The accompanying instructions are described as comprehensive and easy to understand, demystifying a process that might otherwise seem complex. The ability to set up the system in just a few minutes means that checking your car's tracking can become a regular part of your vehicle maintenance routine, rather than a task reserved for specialist workshops.
Accuracy Considerations
When discussing the accuracy of any measurement tool, it's important to consider the factors that contribute to it. The Trakrite system leverages laser technology, which is inherently precise. The low-radiation laser beam provides a consistent and straight line of reference. The system's design aims to minimise user error during setup and measurement. For diagnosing the 'toe' angle, the accuracy provided by this system is generally considered sufficient for home users and for identifying whether an adjustment is needed. It's important to note that while the Trakrite system is excellent for diagnosis and identifying misalignment, fine-tuning adjustments typically still require professional equipment and expertise to achieve the manufacturer's precise specifications.
What is the Cost?
The Trakrite Laser System is positioned as an affordable solution. At the time of publication, the expected retail price is around £90.00. This price point makes it an accessible investment for car owners who want to proactively manage their vehicle's maintenance and save money on potential repairs caused by misalignment.
Comparison with Professional Alignment
It's useful to compare the Trakrite system with the professional wheel alignment services offered by garages. Professional alignment systems use sophisticated laser or camera-based equipment that measures multiple angles, including camber, caster, and toe, across all four wheels. These systems are highly accurate and allow for precise adjustments to meet exact manufacturer specifications. The Trakrite system, on the other hand, is primarily a diagnostic tool focused on front-wheel 'toe'. While it can accurately indicate if there's a problem, it doesn't perform the adjustments itself and focuses on the most common and impactful alignment issue for DIY checks.
| Feature | Gunson Trakrite Laser System | Professional Wheel Alignment |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Diagnosis of front wheel toe | Diagnosis and adjustment of all alignment angles (toe, camber, caster) |
| Technology | Low-radiation laser beam | Advanced laser or camera systems |
| Accuracy for Diagnosis | High for front toe | Very high for all angles |
| Adjustment Capability | None (diagnostic only) | Full adjustment capabilities |
| User Skill Level | Beginner/Home Mechanic | Professional Technician |
| Cost | Approx. £90.00 | £50 - £150+ per session |
| Suitability | Checking for misalignment at home | Precise adjustments and full vehicle geometry checks |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How accurate is the Trakrite Laser System?
A1: The Trakrite system is designed to be highly accurate for diagnosing front wheel 'toe' alignment. It uses a laser beam, which provides a precise reference. For home use and for identifying whether your tracking is off, it is very reliable.
Q2: Can I adjust my car's tracking with this system?
A2: No, the Trakrite Laser System is a diagnostic tool. It tells you if your tracking is incorrect, but you will need to visit a garage or mechanic to have the actual adjustments made.
Q3: Is it difficult to use for a beginner?
A3: The system comes with comprehensive and easy-to-understand instructions, and it's designed for quick setup (a few minutes). It's aimed at home mechanics and enthusiasts, so ease of use is a key feature.
Q4: What kind of vehicles can it be used on?
A4: It is suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance (requiring only 100mm) and can accommodate modern alloy wheels up to 22 inches in diameter.
Q5: How often should I check my wheel tracking?
A5: It's a good practice to check your wheel tracking periodically, especially if you notice any signs of uneven tyre wear, the car pulling to one side, or after hitting a pothole or kerb. Many recommend checking it annually or every 10,000 miles as part of routine maintenance.
Conclusion
The Gunson Trakrite Laser System offers a compelling solution for car enthusiasts and home mechanics looking to monitor their vehicle's front wheel alignment. Its accuracy, ease of use, and affordability make it a valuable tool for diagnosing tracking issues. By enabling regular checks, it empowers users to take proactive steps towards reducing tyre wear, improving fuel economy, and ensuring safer driving. While it doesn't replace the need for professional adjustment, it serves as an excellent first step in identifying and understanding potential alignment problems, ultimately saving money and contributing to better vehicle health.
If you want to read more articles similar to Trakrite Laser Tyre Tracking Accuracy, you can visit the Alignment category.