TM 9-2610-200-14
2-11
CHAPTER 2. CARE, MAINTENANCE, AND INSPECTION (Con't)
SECTION I. GENERAL INFORMATION (Con't)
2-16. EFFECTS OF VEHICLE MAINTENANCE (Con't).
c. MISALIGNMENT OF WHEELS.
Misalignment of front wheels is a common
cause of irregular and excessive tire wear. Front
wheels frequently encounter obstructions in the
road that jolt the wheels out of alignment.
Excessive toe-in or toe-out is the most common
problem in front wheel alignment. In- sufficient
caster angle will cause front wheels to wander
from side to side, resulting in uneven tire wear.
Excessive camber angle increases slippage
between the center and side sections of the tread
area, also causing uneven tire wear. When any
of these conditions develop, take immediate
corrective action. Refer to applicable
maintenance TM for procedures and tolerances.
d. MISALINGMENT OF AXLES.
Misalignment of axles causes drive and trailer wheel tires to slide sideways, scuffing their tread and
wearing them excessively.
2-17. IRREGULAR AND EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR.
At the first sign of irregular and excessive wear, change the tire to a new wheel position, determine the
cause, and take corrective action. Mechanical maladjustment's and operating conditions are major causes
of irregular and excessive wear. Causes might be wheel misalignment, bent wheels, loose wheels,
misaligned axles, faulty brakes, faulty bearings, and damaged or weak springs. Misuse of brakes and
engine power and turning at high speeds also cause irregular and excessive tire wear.
2-18. TIRE WEAR PATTERNS.
CAUTION
Remove wheel and check tire, tube, and rim for damage before inflating if tire has
been run flat or seriously underinflated.
a. AIR PRESSURE.
Correct air pressure is the basis for reliable tire performance. Tires are designed to operate at specified air
pressures for given loads. Always check air pressure before operating the vehicle and when the tires are
cold. During tire use they generate heat which will increase pressure and provide inaccurate readings.
When checking air pressures, always use an accurate gage. Air pressure gage accuracy should be checked
and calibrated periodically with a precision gage. Also check valve cores for leaks. When necessary
inflate the tires to the prescribed air pressure as indicated in the vehicle Technical Manual.
EXCESSIVE TOE-IN
EXCESSIVE TOE-OUT
