Tracking with Wire Wheels

[tim hunt]

Having now fitted my refurbished steering rack I want to get the toe-in set spot on. I just took the car to my local tyre fitters who have done a great job balancing and tracking wires in the past. Unfortunately, since my last visit they have acquired some new kit and it no longer accommodates the spinners. Needless to say they have junked the old kit! Does anyone know of a classic friendly outfit near Barnstaple who might be able to assist me?

Tim

 

 

[RogerH]

Hi Tim,

 back in the 90's I had the same problem.

My solution was to get an old splined wire adaptor. Bush the inside diameter to slide over the garage machine spindle. 
Slide the wheel onto the splined adaptor
Drill a hole in an old spinner to allow it to slide over the machine spindle. Turn a flat face on it.

And now the balancing machine can tighten its nut against the spinner holding it flat and square.

Sadly having not had wires for some time now I got rid of the adaptor.

Like your garage mine replaced the machine and it stopped working

 

Roger

Edited April 21 by RogerH

[BlueTR3A-5EKT]

I have a spare home tracking gauge.    I bought it and discovered my brother already had one.  If I can find it I’ll post it in sales area.

[Ian Vincent]

Hi Tim,

If your problem is setting the tracking, you could always consider something like a “ Trackrace Laser Wheel Alignment System Tracking Gauge”.

I have one, it’s a bit fiddly to use but it works. 

you are always welcome to borrow mine, although it’s in Frome which is probably a bit far to go. 

Rgds Ian

 

Edited April 21 by Ian Vincent

[stuart]

I use the the Gunson "Trakrite" gauge plate, works very well and not expensive to just buy and keep. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gunson-G4008-Trakrite-Wheel-Alignment/dp/B0012M9KEC

I do also have the old Dunlop Caster/Camber gauge which is a great tool though it does take some setting up.

Stuart.

[BlueTR3A-5EKT]

My as new spare tracking gauge now listed on the buy sell trade.

[Don H.]

Does a Gyraline and an iPhone work on a TR’s wire wheels?

I dunno, but I’ll check mine over the next week. 

Edited April 22 by Don H.

[Lebro]

On 4/21/2026 at 10:56 AM, stuart said:

I use the the Gunson "Trakrite" gauge plate, works very well and not expensive to just buy and keep. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gunson-G4008-Trakrite-Wheel-Alignment/dp/B0012M9KEC

I do also have the old Dunlop Caster/Camber gauge which is a great tool though it does take some setting up.

Stuart.

I also use the Tracrite device.  Very simple to use, & inexpensive.

Bob