INSPECTION

Wheels can be distorted or bent and not affect dry road handling to a noticeable degree. Out of round wheels will show up as uneven tire wear, or will make it difficult to balance the tire. Wheel run-out can be checked with the wheel on or off the vehicle and with the tire on or off the rim. If measurement is to be made with the wheel off the vehicle, you will need an accurate mounting surface such as a wheel balancer.

Both lateral and radial run-out should be measured using a dial gauge. Lateral run-out is a sideways vibration causing a twist or wobble and is measured on a side surface. On a tire and wheel assembly, measure the sidewall of the tire, as close as possible to the tread shoulder design edge. On a rim, measure the run-out on the flange.

Radial run-out is the egg-shaped difference from a perfect circle. On a tire and wheel assembly, measure radial run-out from the center of the tire tread rib, although other tread ribs can be measured, if necessary. The rim may be measured on either flange if the tire is removed.

1. Use a dial gauge to measure the run-out of the wheel or tire and wheel assembly, as applicable.
2. The lateral run-out limit is 0.059 in. (1.5mm) for steel wheels, 0.039 (1mm) for aluminum wheels. The radial run-out limit is 0.059 in. (1.5mm) for steel wheels, 0.039 in. (1mm) for aluminum wheels.