17 replies to this topic

[Algordo1100]

Having just done all 4 rubber cones on my SPI, plus hi-los, new shockies and tie bars, I thought it best to get the tracking checked.

Kwik fit is just down the road and they have the equipment. What could go wrong?

They couldn't even get a reading off it apparently. The bloke said the equipment wouldn't go on the mini properly, was giving all sorts of ridiculous readings and he wasn't moving anything as he had no idea if it would be making it worse or better.

Right. ?

[beardylondon]

10” wheels? Ive had this problem before, only certain laser Systems are compatible with 10” wheels.

[Icey]

Not many places will do sub-13” wheels anymore. You’re better served by finding a local specialist that doesn’t rely on the laser track systems.

[cal844]

The old school Dunlop tracking gauges with the mirrors and sights are perfect for this, I used to get my tracking done at my voluntary placement (FOC of course as I'd only create work if its quiet ?)

Anyway I had the tracking set (12x6J wheels) how it should be, the only difficulty for us was getting the castor correct as we didn't have a device to measure that, camber was set by using a double string method like used for tracking but with another string line at the top of the wheel. It worked for us and the car still handles well...

Excuse the ramblings ?

[Pops_Guild]

For front wheel tracking get yourself a Gunsons Trackrite, does a great job. Saw an article in Mini World about using one was a bit of doubter but it works a treat

[g0myw]

same here mpi 13" ... the 'new' tracking kit doesnt work on them. [wheelbase too small.!]
eventually found a traditional/classic garage with Dunlop gauges... sorted in no time.
the gunson sounds a good option.

[bpirie1000]

Quick fit could not even do my honda crv and that was an apparent run of the mill car.

They also fitted 4 new tyres.... 55 miles from depot. 4 flat tyres!!!.... they said it was nails... not their fault.

Got recovered and to their garage(160pounds) no nails found. Stood over the guy until I was happy...

And they gave no reason except the favourite. Must be corrosion in the rims....
They sealed before the new tyres....

Head office were it interested...nor replied to my 3 letters...

Edited by bpirie1000, 09 October 2019 - 08:55 AM.

[gazza82]

I've never gone near them since they suggested welding an exhaust they fitted that keep coming loose. The joint was next to a plastic petrol tank!!

 

Took it to an indie and he fitted the correct exhaust clamps .... for free! (He got a couple of beers for it though!)

 

 

That was on a FLEET car so they lost that business fairly quickly .. their excuse? "We don't get many Alfa's in .. "

[Cabriomin]

For front wheel tracking get yourself a Gunsons Trackrite, does a great job. Saw an article in Mini World about using one was a bit of doubter but it works a treat

Agreed. I've got the track ace one from Demon Tweaks. A couple of uses and its paid for itself.

[Steve220]

Is that with the hunter system? I had to remove my front wheel arches to get it to calibrate properly. But it does work. Sounds like user error.

[beardylondon]

Looks pretty easy to use!

 

[Algordo1100]

I've put it best I can using wood, string and a tape measure but the car doesn't feel right.

It seemed to drive more true before I changed the tie bars and put the ride height correct. This can't be right. The driver's side tie bar was bent and the front cones collapsed.

It's wandering about like the subframe mounts are loose/split but I haven't touched them and they look fine/new.

I'll have to try somewhere else for tracking.

[Stevie W]

Kwik fit once damaged the spokes on all 4 of my old Rover 400 alloy wheels.

 

These days I wouldn't let them near my wheelbarrow tyre, let alone a car!!!!

 

Cheers, Steve.

[dodge44]

It's also worth keeping a close eye at these establishments on where they try to jack up your Mini when doing a tyre replacement. 9 times out of 10 it will be on the floor pans as they take one look at the slingers and think they are jacking points...

[expat_cat]

While on the subject, couple of question if anyone has the answer or point me to the right resources.

 

The Gunson's device simply needs you to adjust till you get no deflection, measured in degrees.  The Laser (trakace) also measures the actual toe-in/out in degrees.  Both need you to adjust then re-check i.e. you can't measure while adjusting. So:

 

Haynes manual gives the tracking values in mm, good/reliable place to get the figures in degrees?

 

Any approximate ideas on how many turns/partial-turns on the track rod to adjust per fraction of a degree?