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Lateral Runout

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Lateral runout is a sideways variation causing a twist or wobble and is measured on a side surface. On the wheel and tire assembly, the lateral runout measurement should be taken as close to the tread shoulder as possible. Total runout is the reading from the gauge.

Fig 1: Positioning Runout Gauge To Take Lateral Measurement
GF0000758Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Item Part Number Description
1 - Tire high spot
2 - Wheel high spot
3 - Tire low spot
4 - Wheel low spot
  1. Position the runout gauge to take a lateral measurement.
    • Rotate the wheel and tire assembly (or wheel) to locate the low spot.
    • Adjust the runout gauge to read 0.
    • Rotate the wheel and tire assembly (or wheel) one complete revolution to make sure that the low spot has been found and that the dial returns to a 0 reading.
  2. Fig 2: Measuring Lateral Runout
    GF0000759Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    NOTE: If there is a vast difference in measurements taken from a wheel and tire assembly checked (on the vehicle) compared to readings taken (off the vehicle), check for excessive bolt circle runout, excessive hub runout or a fitting concern between the hub and wheel.
  3. While slowly and constantly rotating the wheel and tire assembly (or wheel), measure the lateral runout.
    • Note the variance (runout) from 0 on the dial of the gauge.
    • If the runout reading of a wheel and tire assembly is not within 1.27 mm (0.050 in), locate and mark the high spot and proceed to Match Mounting Step 1 to correct the concern.
    • If the runout reading of a wheel is not within 1.27 mm (0.050 in), install a new wheel.