Tracking

[rogerowen]

How do you carry out front wheel tracking? Only obvious way I can see is to repeatedly remove and adjust the ball-joint (TRE) - which might damage the ball joint in the process

[ian.mcdougall]

undo the locking nut then put a pair of grips on the steering arm to shorten or lengthen till tracking ok then remember to lock the lock nut
simples

[rogerowen]

undo the locking nut then put a pair of grips on the steering arm to shorten or lengthen till tracking ok then remember to lock the lock nut
simples

Brilliant Thanks.

[mogbob]

Don't forget to watch the rubber gaitors !! If you have a lot of adjustment to take up ...the gaitors will twist and distort, then they will split and let in dirt and water.Either slacken the jubilee clips or cut the cable ties ( replace with new ones later ) and refasten after adjustment completed.

Bob

[rogerowen]

Don't forget to watch the rubber gaitors !! If you have a lot of adjustment to take up ...the gaitors will twist and distort, then they will split and let in dirt and water.Either slacken the jubilee clips or cut the cable ties ( replace with new ones later ) and refasten after adjustment completed.

Bob

Thanks Bob, ordering a new gaitor as I write!

[aupickup]

if cable ties then hold them with bull nose pliers

[bmcecosse]

Yes as above - but you need to twist the gaiter round as you turn the track rod - so it doesn't twist up... They are usually not that tight. beware - some new gaiters only seem to last a few months.... And you need to be aware that when making adjustments - you need to move both sides equally - not all on one side.... Although it is worth while measuring the amount of thread exposed on each track rod (should be equal) - to check if previous tracking efforts have been done only on one side!

[mogbob]

Roger
If you all ready have a damaged gaitor, go ahead.You' ll need to inspect for any dirt / damage when it is removed.

Clean up the joint...rag and Meths/ white spirit/ degreaser, whatever you have, and if OK , fit the new one.
If the new one is a split type, proceed, if it's a one piece one you will need to break the ball joint and slip the new gaitor over the end and refit the ball joint ( a new nyloc nut will be required unless you have a castellated nut.. in which case you'll need a new split pin !! ).
With one end of the gaitor secure to the rack, you can pack with grease.Don't go mad...cover the mechanical bits generously,If you "overstuff " the gaiter with grease... when you turn the wheel the gaitor might burst.

Bob

[bmcecosse]

The 'oil it' brigade will be after you Bob !

[mogbob]

Variety ...the spice of life Roy.Wise men take advice but make their own decisions.
Bob