Did you know that improperly adjusted front wheel stops can restrict wheel cut too much and increase the vehicle turning radius? They can also not restrict wheel cut enough and cause damage to brake lines and frame-mounted components.

Some manufacturers adjust the front wheel stops properly, while others do not. If the stops restrict the wheels from reaching the maximum allowable angle, the vehicle will be less maneuverable. If the stops allow the wheels to pass the maximum allowable angle, the tires may rub on brake lines, filters, or other frame-mounted components and cause serious damage.

Always check the front wheel cut on new vehicles and adjust the stops to the maximum allowable setting. Check interferences at both the front and rear of the tires. Be aware that on most vehicles, the maximum allowable wheel cut to the left may be different than to the right because the locations of various frame-mounted components vary from side to side. Check the wheel cuts again if you change tire sizes or brands.

This feature offers a variety of short tips and facts about apparatus specifications, maintenance and testing. Look for it every month. Submissions of 150 words or less are welcome from our readers, subject to editing. Send them to Senior Editor Chris Cavette at cavettes@ix.netcom.com