The Importance of Maintaining Trailer Axle Alignment on Tractor/Trailer Combination vehicles

The means for ease of alignment maintenance of tandem axles on conventional tractor/trailers has been a requirement largely overlooked or not recognized by common carrier fleet operators and the equipment manufacturers in United States. A review of developments of the past 10 years will provide a more perspective understanding of current maintenance practices and why there is a need for change. Some complacency has existed within the industry and a greater understanding of the ramifications of misaligned trailer axles is needed. Improved maintenance procedures for better control of trailer axle alignment will reduce operating expenses and, from a standpoint of highway safety, will also reduce the potential for accidents.