Proper Tire Balancing
Tire balancing is defined as having a uniform distribution of weight rotating about the center hub. This can be accomplished utilizing static and dynamic balance techniques. Dynamic balancing can be performed on or off the vehicle, and is the preferred method. Improper tire balancing will cause accelerated tread wear, irregular tread wear, vehicle vibration, and probable vehicle handling problems. A properly balanced tire will provide a smooth ride and longer tire life.
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Things You'll Need
- Dynamic computerized balancing machine
- Assorted tire weights
- Tire weight hammer with weight removal claw
- Tire bead lubricant
- Tire mounting machine
Instructions
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Dynamically Balancing a Tire and Rim Assembly
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1
Mount the rim onto the machine's cone-shaped collar and tighten the screw clamp securely. Input the rim's diameter and width into the computer. Remove any tire weights and loosen the tire from the rim. Spin up the rim for assurance that the rim is in balance. Remove the rim from the machine.
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2
Lubricate both sides of tire bead area, mount the tire on the rim, inflate the tire so it is seated appropriately to the rim, and adjust air pressure to desired pounds per square inch (psi). Mount the assembly to the balancing machine and secure screw clamp. Validate that the rim dimensions are in the computer correctly.
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3
Start the machine and spin up assembly for dynamic balance. When the balance machine has calculated the amount of weight and location, the machine will stop. Install the clip-on weights to the lip of the rim as indicated by the balance machine. As little as a quarter of an ounce weight can make a difference. The amount of weight and location will be indicated in the computer's readout for either or both sides of the tire assembly.
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4
Repeat Step 3 to ensure tire is in balance. If additional weight or a different location is indicated, move or add weight as indicated. Start the machine and spin up for dynamic balance again. The balancing machine should show tire assembly is in balance. If additional weight or a change in location is indicated, perform Step 5.
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5
Move the weight on the non-balanced side half way to the new location. Start the machine and validate that the assembly is in balance. Adjust location as necessary, and increase weight if indicated. Do not add more than two weights in different locations to either side of the tire. A single weight on either or both sides is most desirable.
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1
Tips & Warnings
A static imbalance will cause a tire to move up and down in a bouncing manner called radial force, while a dynamic imbalance will cause the tire to wobble in a side-to-side movement called lateral force. Both types of imbalance need to be corrected for a smooth riding vehicle.
Make absolutely sure the rim diameter is the same as the tire diameter. Even a half-inch variation could cause the tire to explode off the rim, creating a very dangerous situation.
