Wheels: Testing and Inspection

Wheel runout should be measured with an accurate dial indicator. Measurements can be taken with the wheel installed on the vehicle, or off the vehicle using an accurate mounting surface such as a wheel balancer. Measurements can also be taken with or without the tire mounted on the wheel.

Measure radial runout and lateral runout on both the inboard and outboard rim flanges. With the dial indicator firmly in position, slowly rotate the wheel one revolution and record the total indicator reading. If any measurement exceeds specifications, and there is a vibration that wheel balancing will not correct, the wheel should be replaced. Disregard any indicator readings due to welds, paint runs, scratches, etc.

^ STEEL WHEELS
- Radial runout, 1.015 mm (0.040 inch).
- Lateral runout, 1.143 mm (0.045 inch).

^ ALUMINUM WHEELS
- Radial runout, 0.762 mm (0.030 inch).
- Lateral runout, 0.762 mm (0.030 inch).