Does Your RV Have an Alignment Problem? Here’s How to Tell
An RV’s alignment talks of the angle its wheels sit in when compared to the body of the vehicle. To fix a vehicle’s alignment, the suspension is adjusted. Usually, alignment issues occur out of years of wear and tear but sometimes the vehicle may have a manufacturing defect. The sudden impact from hitting a curb or pothole too hard can make your RV fall out of alignment. When the shocks and struts of the suspension come off loose, it too can be a reason for the vehicle to get misaligned.
Another reason a suspension may not work as intended is because of improper RV repair or modifications. For example, when the height of an RV is altered, the suspensions need to be adjusted likewise lest your vehicle becomes misaligned.
How to Know Your RV Has Alignment Issues?
Steering Wheel is Off-Center
An easy way to determine if your vehicle is misaligned is to look at the emblem on the steering wheel. Does it appear askew even when driving on a straight road? The steering wheel tipping to the side, even by a few degrees is indicative of an RV with alignment problems.
Additionally, a loose steering wheel that responds to turning a few seconds late is another warning sign. Some drivers also observe the steering wheel vibrating unnaturally when an alignment issue arises.
Tires Wearing Off Way Too Quickly
Take a tread depth meter to your tires, if you notice the rubber depth to be different on both sides, it is likely that the vehicle is due for a trip to the RV repair. Sometimes misalignment can manifest as going through your tires abnormally fast. Check for excessive inner or outer tire wear and scalloping as well.
Even if you didn’t check for signs of wear in your tires, the squealing is a giveaway. When the RV is sped up or making a particularly sharp turn, if you can hear your tires squealing, you should get them checked out.
Types of Alignment Issues
An RV can misalign in a few different ways. Below we discuss the 3 most common types.
Camber
Camber comes into play when viewing the car from the front.
Toe
When the car is looked at from the top view, toe is the wheel’s alignment in reference to the steering wheel.
Caster
The caster of the wheel refers to the pivot of the wheel when observed from the side view. If your steering wheel feels too heavy or too light, it is possible that the caster is off in your vehicle.
Never Ignore an Alignment Problem
Since misalignment does no immediate harm to the RV, drivers put off taking the vehicle to the RV repair. What most people fail to realize is that the longer the issue persists without fixing the worse a toll is it going to take on the vehicle.
Most companies also rule out tire warranties if there are alignment issues. In fact, misaligned RVs also lack fuel efficiency since the tires burn more diesel/petrol crossing the same distance.
Silverado Road Service offers free alignment checks. We also offer a multitude of diesel truck, bus, and RV repairs. We are family-owned and have been running in OKC metro since 2000. With our mechanics, it’s never hit or miss, they are well trained to pinpoint the exact problem and fix it with admirable deftness. To book your appointment call us at 405-830-8792.