Balancing gunked up wheels
hunter01
11-02-2004, 02:33 AM
Last month I had my studded snow tires mounted and balanced on a spare set of aluminum rims so that I could change over when I was ready. Afterward I noticed they were very gunked up with brake dust and grease so I cleaned them. Now that I've degreased them should I have them re-balanced?
Also, what kinds of mechanical problems can driving on unbalanced wheels cause? Does this put undue wear and tear on the vehicle?
Also, what kinds of mechanical problems can driving on unbalanced wheels cause? Does this put undue wear and tear on the vehicle?
Grant@Tirerack
11-03-2004, 08:21 AM
You would have to have a lot of gunk on a wheel to make any difference in the balance. It would be doubtful that you could have that much grease and dust built up on the wheels uless it was over 1/8" thick or something. I guess it is possible but it's not likely. Runnig with badly out of balance wheels can take its toll on wheel bearings and suspension bushings but it takes a while to cause any damage.
hunter01
11-05-2004, 01:16 AM
Thank you very much for the info, the wheels in question are studded snow's from another vehicle. When I first put them on I noticed a slight vibration, but now after 200 miles they feel fine.
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