Haulage operators can reduce the fuel consumption of their trucks by as much as 5 per cent and increase the life of their tyres by up to 20 per cent, with improved ride and driver comfort, through correct wheel alignment, according to workshop equipment specialists, Techplus

Techplus, distributes the Haweka Axis Series of electronic wheel alignment equipment for HGV and PSV applications and says that savings of up to €3,900 + VAT can be achieved annually on a typcial twin-steer tractor unit and tri-axle truck and tri-axle trailer driving 150,000 kms through correct wheel alignment.

Techplus has calculated that it can cost in the region of €5,600 to replace 14 premium tyres on a typical twin-steer tractor unit and tri-axle trailer fitted with super single tyres. With proper wheel alignment the life of the tyres can be extended by up to 20 per cent delivering savings of up to €1,200.

Field tests conducted by Haweka have shown that fuel savings of 5 per cent can be achieved through correct wheel alignment. On a truck and trailer travelling 150,000 kms annually, with a fuel consumption of 30 litres per 100 kms (45,000 litres) savings of €2,700 can be achieved. (Cost of diesel €1.20 a litre + VAT).

Adding the fuel savings and the savings on tyres, haulage operators can achieve savings of up to €3,900 on a typical truck towing a 40 foot trailer driving 150,000 kms annually, according to Techplus.