Rotary cutters can also be used for other jobs. Rotary cutters can be used with
an air or electric drill.
Pitman arm puller.
A pitman arm puller is used to remove the pitman arm from the
gearbox of a conventional steering system. After removing the nut from the sector gear
shaft, place the arms of the puller over the pitman arm. Then, tighten the central screw
against the shaft to remove the pitman arm.
Pry bars.
Pry bars are often used to free sticking or corroded parts. They are also used
to move control arms during alignment procedures.
Punches and drifts.
Punches and drifts are often needed to drive pins out of parts.
Tapered punches are useful for aligning bolt holes in parts.
Tie-rod adjusters.
On most conventional and some rack-and-pinion steering systems,
the adjuster sleeves can be moved with a tie-rod tool. This tool has a hooked area that
fits in the split in the sleeve. When the tool is turned, the hook tends to open the sleeve,
allowing it to turn more easily. There are many variations of these tools. Some of them
are self-contained units and others are used with a
�
-inch drive ratchet.
Threaded adjusting tools.
Threaded adjusting tools are used to move various parts of
the suspension for alignment. These tools use a multiplying action of screw threads.
The tool typically consists of two rods with a central, threaded nut. The tool is installed
with the rods in matching holes. There is one hole in the suspension part and the other
is in the frame. With the fasteners loose, turning the nut causes the rods to move the
suspension part in relation to the frame. A variation of this tool is used to adjust caster
and camber.
Torque Wrenches.
Torque wrenches are sometimes needed to adjust the tightness of
wheel bearings, lug nuts, power steering gears, and other components. There are three
basic types of torque wrenches.
•
The beam-type torque wrench displays torque readings using a pointer that is
attached to the beam. When torque is applied to the fastener, the beam flexes,
causing the pointer to move along the scale.
•
The dial-type torque wrench gives torque readings on the face of the dial. This
type of torque wrench is extremely accurate.
•
To use a click-type torque wrench, you must set the desired amount of torque on
the wrench's dial before tightening the fastener. The wrench will then produce a
clicking sound when the desired torque is reached.
Torque wrenches are designed to measure torque in Newton-meters, inch-pounds, or
foot-pounds.
3.0.0 ALIGNMENT PROCEDURES
Correct wheel alignment is vital to vehicle operation. Incorrect alignment can cause
handling problems, steering difficulties, pulling, poor tracking, and rapid tire wear.
3.1.0 Pre-Alignment Checks
Talk to operator.
If possible, talk to the vehicle's operator if available and find out why
he or she thinks the vehicle needs an alignment. Ask about the specific problems and
how the vehicle is reacting when operated. On occasion, the problem may be
something that an alignment will not fix. Worn parts or unbalanced tires may cause what
the operator perceives as a wheel alignment problem. This is particularly true of
NAVEDTRA 14050A
9-19