The Cam-aligner is a compact, mobile system that uses camera technology together with the centreline principle to determine the position of axles and individual wheels in relation to the vehicle. It was supplied by JOSAM’s UK distributor Automotive Equipment Solutions UK (AES UK).
TyreWatch field service technician Gary Jerrim explains: “This system lines up to the whole vehicle frame and with just a half turn of the wheel, all readings are sent to a service laptop, including steering box, camber, out-of-square and toe, to allow instant diagnosis and subsequent adjustment where possible.”
According to TyreWatch, just one degree out of alignment between the wheels and/or the vehicle centre will cause a 10% deficiency in tyre wear, resulting in a reduction in fuel consumption, additional engine strain and potential blow-outs from overheating.
To monitor tyre performance, the company’s real-time telematics communication system connects to special wheel-mounted sensors and downloads relevant tyre status data. From this information any cases of excessive wear are automatically identified and relayed to the vehicle operator, who can then take the necessary steps to diagnose alignment issues and adjust as necessary.
“This is where the Cam-aligner comes in – sort of full circle,” adds Gary Jerrim. “We can go straight to the vehicle to carry out all requisite checks and corrections and the operator saves on the downtime and cost of having to send the vehicle back to the dealer.” In this regard, Gary points out that the system is approved by OEMs such as Mercedes-Benz Truck, Bus & Van, Scania, Volvo and Renault Truck and Van.