Steering wheel slighty off after fitting track rod ends

[race_afc]

I put 2 new track rod ends on my corsa c and i fitted them roughly where i took the old track rods off but now when i drive the car the steering wheel is slightly off to the right so i was wondering how do i get the steering wheel straight again. I can borrow a trackrite to do the tracking myself but what is the proper way to adjust the tracking on a corsa c.

[Rolebama]

Due to manufacturing processes, track rod ends are never exactly the same. You just have to wind one out and the other in to get the wheel straight.

[race_afc]

Do you know which one i would have to wind in and wind out to get the steering wheel straight.

[bby gti]

Its quite a tricky job to line up the tracking and keep the steering wheel straight . My suggestion would be set the tracking first , Im not familier with that tracking system , trying to keep the threads at either side roughly even (remeber to roll the car forward and back aprox 2 wheel rotations before checking again) . Once you've done that give the car a run along the road and see how far off it is and what way it is off . If it is off still to right id suggestion you mark eack track rod and turn the N/S one out 1 turn and the O/S in 1 turn to try and pull and push wheel round until you get wheel straight but be very carefull how much you adjust it . You also have to try and keep the tracking still in line too can be tricky and anoying . Other thing to do is put it into a garage and get a four wheel aglinement done and get wheel straightend too ?

[wagolynn]

It is difficult without the correct equipment, I normally go to my tamed tyre depot and insist they centre the rack and adjust from there, they want to do it all on one side so I watch them. If you know about Ackerman steering (on most steered vehicles and carriages), you will understand the adjustments for tracking must always be shared on both sides, otherwise the tyres will scrub when going round corners.

[Wesley]

Hi,

I`m also not familiar with the "trackrite" kit.

on modern vehicles its always best to have a "four wheel alignment" check which with the steering wheel locked in the straight ahead position, and adjustments to both trackrod ends until the readings on the rear scales are even.

even better, computerised "pro align" kit will sort it.

wes.