How It Works
Prior to using the Axletrac Alignment Tool, ensure the proper positioning of the trailer and axles according to the trailer or suspension manufacturer’s recommendations. A summary of these recommendations can be found in the Axletrac Owner’s Manual.
Due to unique design characteristics of Alcoa aluminum wheels, we’ve provided a brief note to ensure proper tool installation. Access the install tip here.
How to Perform a Semi Trailer Alignment | Axletrac Wheel Extender Installation
Learn how to perform a semi trailer alignment using the Axletrac Stud Referenced System. In this step-by-step tutorial, we demonstrate how to install the Axletrac wheel extenders and establish precise physical reference points directly from the wheel studs. Unlike rim-mounted alignment devices, the Axletrac system references the wheel studs, helping reduce the influence of wheel irregularities while creating consistent mechanical reference points for measuring trailer alignment. Once installed, technicians can accurately measure thrust angle, scrub angle, axle parallelism, and kingpin-to-axle alignment on heavy-duty trailers.
In this video:
- How to install Axletrac wheel extenders
- Stud-mounted physical reference points
- Heavy-duty trailer alignment procedures
- Measuring thrust angle and scrub angle
- Kingpin-to-axle alignment
Mechanical trailer alignment without lasers Whether you’re diagnosing tire wear, trailer dog tracking, trailer sway, or alignment-related handling issues, this video shows how to establish accurate reference points before making alignment corrections.
Axletrac Alignment Tool
Quick Demo Video
This short introduction video showcases Bob demonstrating the quick and easy setup of the Axletrac Alignment Tool.
Step 1: Setting the Pogo Stick
After adjusting the pogo stick height on the heavy-duty kingpin extender with the snap button, place the kingpin of the trailer into the cone to center. Apply upward tension to move the bottom end of the pogo stick perfectly underneath the kingpin.
Step 2: The Bullseye
Ensure the bullseye level shows the bubble in the center. This indicates that the kingpin is accurately extended to the ground for a reproducible and precise measurement.
Step 3: The Measuring Tape
The measuring tape is hooked onto the tape hook near the ground and the tape measure is carried to the rear of the trailer ensuring there are no obstructions between the kingpin extender and the axle end extender.
Step 4: The Extension Tube
The extension tube is threaded onto the wheel stud of the foremost axle nearest to the 6 o’clock position. Once snug, loosen the tube by ¼ turn for effortless installation of the span bar later.
Step 5: Installing the Span Bar
After repeating this process using the second extension tube on the stud nearest the 12 o’clock position, you will install the span bar. The extension tubes are delivered with grease inside the pin holes for easier installation and removal. The pins of the span bar must be greased prior to each use to ensure effortless installation and removal of the span bar.
Step 6: Tighten Tubes Again
Depending on the length of the studs, the internal threads will either run out or the end of the tube will bottom out on the lug. Either of these ensures accuracy and precision of measurement.
Once the span bar is fully seated into the extension tubes, it is crucial to tighten the extension tubes onto the studs again. This step ensures a secure fit and maintains measurement accuracy.
This is a properly placed axle end extender.
Important Note: The extension tubes will apply to both 10-stud and 8-stud wheel hubs. However, the span bar will not. Span bars for 8-stud wheel hubs are sold separately.
Step 7: Taking the Measurement
With the kingpin extender and the axle end extenders properly installed on both wheels of the foremost axle, utilize the measuring tape, clamp and tension meter to ensure equal tension when measuring each wheel. The measurement is taken from the front edge of the circular pin protruding outward from the span bar.
Step 8: Adding More Extenders
Once the foremost axle has been aligned within the parameters specified by your trailer or suspension manufacturer, a second set of axle end extenders can be installed on the rearmost axle to save time and increase accuracy.
Step 9: Rear Axle Measurement
Very simply utilize a measuring tape from the pin of the foremost axle end extender to the front edge of the pin of the rearmost axle end extender for accurate rear axle measurement. Once rear axle measurement is within the parameters of the trailer or suspension manufacturer’s recommendations uninstall the axle end extenders by removing the span bar and completely unscrewing the extension tubes.
Connect With Us
Have questions about Axletrac precision alignment tools? We’re here to help! Give us a call at (812) 406-8552 or visit our contact page to send us a message. For international order inquiries outside of Canada and Mexico, please call us directly.
