Alignment Every Year-96 Sierra

[wolfster]

Hi Guys,

I had all new tires put on last November on my Sierra K1500 4x4. They did the tires and also a 4-wheel alignment and balancing. I was wondering if I needed to do another alignment and balancing again this year, and subsequently once every year, even though I don't have too much of a problem with uneven wear or handling ability. The tires are rotated every 3000or so miles. The owners manual says nothing about alignment and balancing intervals.

Thanks for your assistance!

Jason

[2000CAYukon]

In college, I worked in a tire shop as a mechanic. Part of my job was alignments.

As far as alignment intervals, it should be based on tire wear. Since you already rotate ever 3K, if you notice any unusual wear, then you should have the alignment checked. The other reason to the alignment checked is if the vehicle pulls to one side or the other, or if the handling is funny.

Balancing should only be needed if you notice a vibration while driving. The vibration could come from the steering wheel if the fronts are out of balance. A rear tire out of balance will usually shake the vehicle.

If you rotate the tires on a regular basis, they should last a long time and not require rebalancing.

//2000CAYukon