Tracking??

[Andy C]

Car was pulling over to the left quite badly so I've just had the tracking adjusted. Problem is that it's no different now than when I took it in.

I've not driven into any kerbs or anything and the tyre pressures are all correct......so any clues why the car is steering itself over to the left?

Cheers!
Andy

 

[jonathan]

sticking brake caliper?

or maybe some worn parts in the suspension

 

[SchumaniaC]

That symptom surely has been caused by some massive hit on the wheel by a curb or otherwise. If you are 100% sure that it is not the case check for a jammed brake caliper or worn out wheel bearings.

 

[Nigel]

Caster Angle

Whilst they did the tracking of the front wheels, there is also the tracking, toe-in and one ofton forgotten, the castor angle. The latter can have quite a dramatic effect on the angle of attack.

Go to a reputable tyre place who have a full computerised tracking system. You will get a before and after print out to show where the issues are.

I have my cars done a Southam Tyres by the manager, Alan for £20. He gained a 5% improvement on the alignment - some 7bhp on a HGT and the handling was spot on.

Hope that helps a bit!

N

 

[Andy C]

Thanks

Thanks Jonathan, SchumaniaC and Nigel!

I'm a complete thicko when it comes to mechanical stuff and all of your suggestions sound like possible causes.

Having no luck with the clowns at Halfords, I will take the car back to my local Fiat garage (it's still under 2 years warranty) and see if they can sort it - now I have an idea what to ask them to look at (although I'm not holding my breath!!!!).

Thanks for you help guys.

 

[exrovermech]

Re: Thanks

this used to be a problem with some rover cars & no matter what we did we could not correct the fault until we tried something very simple we swaped the front wheels over & it worked, i'm not saying it will work with your car but it has to be worth a try.

exrovermech

 

[Si]

Attn: Nigel

Nige have you got a number and location for Southam Tyres?

 

[Nigel]

er...Southam!

Si
It s Southam Tyres, Southam Drive, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 0RB
01926 813510

The head honcho is a guy called Alan and he is the steering geometry and alignment.

If you go there tell him you were recommended to him by Nigel with the yellow HGT and the Jag six litre.

Cheers

 

[Si]

cheers Nige

I'll let them know you recommended them.
I'll give them a call on Monday morning.