Tire Balancing

Every car owner knows that the importance of car maintenance should never be undermined. Therefore, people must ensure a proper car servicing schedule on a regular basis. This will help to minimize most of the car problems in daily running. Just like the engine, one needs to take care of other car parts such as the tires and wheels. One of the most important car maintenance tasks that a car owner needs to carry out, is tire balancing. This procedure needs to be employed on both: the car tires as well as motorcycles tires.

It is a method wherein the tire is analyzed for its balance on the wheel and adjusted accordingly. When mounted on the wheel, there can be an imbalance in certain areas on the tire, where the pressure is more than the other areas. These areas are known as heavy spots, that may be caused due to uneven tire wear, patches, plugs, etc. These spots may lead to an uneven distribution of weight, thereby causing a vibration while driving. Balancing is the process of setting an appropriate balance between the tires and the wheels, in order to achieve smooth rolling and better driving experience.

Tire balancing is essential as it minimizes the risk of uneven rolling of tires, thereby facilitating its wear and tear in a uniform manner. It also provides a smooth and safe ride on the roads. If the automobile is driven on imbalanced tires, there is a possibility of exertion of unnecessary pressure on the other parts such as, the shocks and suspension. This can also be checked during other maintenance tasks such as wheel alignment and tire rotation.

Car owners are suggested to carry out balancing in between 4,000 to 6,000 miles of driving, or during tire rotation. A rough ride, bumps and vibrations from the suspension and tires are clear indications that balancing is necessary. Apart from noise, which is a very notable factor that indicates imbalanced tires, the driver may find it difficult to control the motion of the vehicle.

There are three methods in which the tires can be balanced. The first method is 'bubble balancing' or 'static balancing', wherein the balancing machine hooks up to the wheel and the tire, indicating if the wheel is in balance.

The second method is employed by using a spin-balancer and a computer; however, this method can only be implemented in the car repair facility. The wheel is attached to a spin-balancer, which in turn is connected to the computer that assesses the required weight on the tire and the wheel.

The third method is employed by inserting the balancing powder or liquid in the tire, to maintain a correct level of weight.

If the powder is used, then it needs to be injected in the tire before filling the air. Generally, this method is opted for the maintenance of tires of highway trucks and carriers. Other methods incorporate the use of wheel weights on tires and rims. These weights are available from 5 g to 60 g or more.

The cost of balancing normally comes to about USD 40 for each tire; however, this depends on the type of method used by the auto repair mechanic. Checking and correcting tire imbalance is certainly one of the best ways to reduce the risk of uneven tire wear and increase the tire life.