Abstract: The method for diagnosing vehicle wheel alignment characteristics in which the longitudinally spaced steerable and non-steerable wheels are equipped with means for permitting the practice of displaying the alignment characteristics of the planes of rotation of the steerable wheels in relation to the geometric center line and the thrust line effect of the non-steerable wheels on the steerable wheels, in combination with the steps of adjusting the plane of rotation of the non-steerable wheels for bringing the thrust line effect thereof into substantial tracking relation with the geometric center line of the vehicle, and monitoring the effect of the adjustment imparted to the non-steerable wheels.

Abstract: Apparatus for compensation of vehicle wheel alignment measurements in which plano-reflective means mounted on certain wheels cooperate with radiant energy projector means mounted on other wheels to have radiant energy sensor means carried thereby in position to pick up the radiant energy returned from the plano-reflective means, such that alignment compensation of the first mentioned wheels may be measured including compensation for the lateral or wobble run-out. The apparatus is also capable of compensating camber measurement of the first mentioned wheels with the aid of camber measuring means associated with the support for the plano-reflective means.

Abstract: A system for diagnosing the alignment characteristics of the wheels on a vehicle so that the planes of rotation of the wheels may be determined in relation to each other and with respect to the effect the wheels have on the attitude of the vehicle body while in motion. The system is made up of several instruments which develop signals which can be processed through electronic computation means capable of performing the necessary processing steps rapidly, with a high degree of accuracy and to a state in which the information can be displayed as soon as it is developed, stored for subsequent use, or transposed into a print-out.