Tracking - DIY

[Kenny]

I have a new track rod to fit as the existing one is bent. Has anyone got any tips/tricks to set the tracking up myself when the new one is fitted.

Cheers

Damian

[Paul]

Fit some electricial tape on the start of the threads
just after the track rod end, unsrew the old one and
count how many turns it goes round before it comes
off, fit the new one with the same amount of turns
which should bring it back to touching the tape  

[Paul]

Sorry I think I missread your message  :?

That is only for if you are fitting a new track rod end  :D

[Kenny]

Excellent idea, and yes I am fitting new ends.

One benefit of having tracking out is that the kids now have a 238.85/16 MT tyre for a swing in the garden now :)

Damian

[Paul]

Jolly good, The answer is above then  

[davidlandy]

Kenny

I just fitted one this afternoon.

I measured the new rod around the bends against the old and confrmed it was the same length as the new one. Then I measured the distance of the trackrod ends from the ends of the old.   one was 51mm and the other 49mm.  

I then put them into the new track rod to the same measurements and popped it back on .   Remember the rod is marked 'L'eft & 'R'ight
 
This is ok I spose if the tracking was correct in the first place before the rod bent!

All done

Dave

[muddyweb]

Use a tape measure.

It will give you a fair idea of how far out it is.  You want one of the little recoil measures with a locking mechanism, and then measure the disctance between the inside of the wheel rims.  Do this halfway up the wheel in front and at the rear of the rim.

Don't measure off the tyres, just on the edge of the rim.