The Trainer #46: How to inspect the steering and suspension system

In the September 2015 The Trainer video, we shared just how small the typical tire contact patch is and how important it is to the overall performance of the vehicle that the tires be properly serviced and inspected. Running a close second in insuring vehicle stability and control is the steering and suspension system - our topic for this month's video - the October 2015 edition.
These two systems work closely together to provide stability, control and a comfortable ride for the vehicle occupants. The suspension is primarily responsible for keeping that tiny contact patch on the road and controlling sway, roll, and dive as the vehicle changes speed or direction. The steering system provides the driver a means to alter direction smoothly and precisely. Faults in either can cause the other to be less capable of performing its job, making it critical that any inspection of one include the other.
Thanks to Steve Cartwright, Garage Guru at Federal-Mogul for his assistance in producing this topic. Learn more about the F-M Garage Guru training opportunities at www.fmgaragegurus.com/
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[@rrmech11]

great information

[@madalitsokphiri1307]

very useful information

[@greynkata3736]

I like it most

[@JJ-zo3xp]

We( Jevol )provide the complete solution for vehicle inspection center, workshop.

[@leonardoperez4524]

Hello, Pete. How do the toe and camber wear happen, please? I cant seem to understand.

[@MotorAgeMagazine]

Stand up and look down at your feet. Now point your toes inward - they are now on an angle to your direction of travel, and your shoes will scrub as they try to move forward. That's toe wear. Now point your feet forward but tilt your ankles outward. As you walk, the sides of your foot will wear but more smoothly as the contact area moves to the outside. That's camber! Of course, toe can be in or out, and camber can be angled in or out. Does that answer your question?

[@leonardoperez4524]

I do understand the angle, but the wear that I don't understand. Does the wear come from the tires touching the suspension parts?

[@MotorAgeMagazine]

No, from the impact these angles (if out of spec) cause to the tire's contact point on the ground. Much like the sole of your foot in the example I used. If the toe (in or out) is incorrect, the tire cannot roll freely but is being pushed down the road instead. And camber is even easier to understand. If the tire is on an angle, then the contact area is closer to the side, wearing down that area of tread prematurely. Clearer now?

[@leonardoperez4524]

Thank you so much, Sir !

[@michaeljohn7467]

@@MotorAgeMagazine how often should you get your front alignment done?

[@shecallmedanny5369]

either he's very tall or that's a mini

[@MrGeoBoyd]

Control arm bushings! Good video otherwise.

[@michaeljohn7467]

I had n still have that problem, people those wear out so check them out also after so many miles, n you should probably just replace both lower control arms n not just the bushings