Is there a simple/inexpensive tool I could buy at like Kragen or NAPA that could tell if the wheel is pretty straight? I don't know what to search for when I go in to a parts store or what to ask for, and I know I heard that something like this exists.
Looked at some used rims yesterday, and need to check them for straightness, w/o using a piece of string and a ruler....
|
| Reply » Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness?? |
Not that I'm aware of. The best method I've ever seen is to mount the wheel on a device you know is perpendicular to the floor, put a metal straight edge on a levelled platform and in contact with the face (and then the back) of the wheel, and measure the gaps. It ain't easy. Nonetheless, the less exact method I've always used is to mount the wheel on a wheel balancer and spin it at high speed. If there's significant run-out you'll see it. It's hard to measure anyway, because most run-out specs I've seen is <= .05 inches. Try measuring that! 
|
| Reply » Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness?? |
At work we measure runout closer than that, but your right, not on a 17" rim.
|
| Reply » Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness?? |
Quote: Is there a simple/inexpensive tool I could buy at like Kragen or NAPA that could tell if the wheel is pretty straight? I don't know what to search for when I go in to a parts store or what to ask for, and I know I heard that something like this exists.
Looked at some used rims yesterday, and need to check them for straightness, w/o using a piece of string and a ruler.... | You could use a dial indicator with stand.
I've printed out the info you need. Will post it when I get a chance to scan the 12 or so pages.
For one-part alloy wheels the spec is:
Max. radial runout of rim is 0.3 mm = .012"
Max. axial runout of rim is the same .012"
|
| Reply » Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness?? |
Quote: I've printed out the info you need. Will post it when I get a chance to scan the 12 or so pages.
For One-part alloy wheels the spec is:
Max. radial runout of rim is 0.3 mm = .012"
Max. axial runout of rim is the same .012" | 12 pages, eh? Well, so much for a simple procedure! 
I'm also surprised at that spec... .012"... I hadn't seen that. That is one tight spec for cast wheels. My guess is that very few aftermarket 1pc wheels could meet it. Given the typical run-out for radial tires it makes you wonder why such a tight wheel spec is necessary.
|
| Reply » Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness?? |
Quote: 12 pages, eh? Well, so much for a simple procedure!
I'm also surprised at that spec... .012"... I hadn't seen that. That is one tight spec for cast wheels. My guess is that very few aftermarket 1pc wheels could meet it. Given the typical run-out for radial tires it makes you wonder why such a tight wheel spec is necessary. | The procedure is basically a dial indicator on a stand.
The spec with tire is 1.1 radial and 1.3 mm axial.
|
Page 1 of 2 |
Menu
Tool to measure/check wheel roundness/trueness??