MANUALVERSUSAUTOMATED WHEELALIGNMENTS
A manual wheel alignment and an alignment done by a Hunter machine (or any other type of computerized alignment system) are essentially two methods for adjusting a vehicle's wheels to ensure they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. The key differences lie in how the measurements are taken, the precision, and the overall ease of the process.
At our center for Auto Repair Astoria, we used to do manual wheel alignments back in the “old school days”. However, we installed a Hunter machine for computerized wheel alignments to provide better service to our customers. Below are some of the reasons why we prefer the computerized wheel alignments over the manual ones. Let’s start with the manual wheel alignments.
Manual Wheel Alignments
A Manual Wheel Alignment is the process whereby a mechanic manually adjusts the vehicle's wheels using basic tools and a series of measurements taken by hand. They typically use a combination of rulers, angles, and measuring tools to set the camber, toe, and caster angles of the wheels.
While skilled technicians can perform a fairly accurate alignment, it is subject to human error, especially when relying on manual measuring tools. It can also be harder to get precise measurements for all angles. It is generally slower than using a computerized system, since it relies on manual checking and adjustments.
Also, there is no use of advanced technology or sensors to ensure the alignment is accurate, making the process more labor-intensive and less efficient.
The Hunter Machine (or any computerized alignment system)
The vehicle is driven onto a platform, and sensors are attached to the wheels. The Hunter machine uses high-tech cameras and laser beams to measure the angles of the wheels in real-time. The system then compares these measurements with the vehicle's manufacturer specifications to determine any necessary adjustments.
Using a computerized alignment system is much more precise than manual alignment. The sensors and software in the machine ensure that the measurements are extremely accurate, often to fractions of a degree. It is also faster than manual alignment because the system automatically takes the necessary measurements, and the technician only needs to make adjustments based on the readings.
The system is equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and computers that provide precise and real-time feedback, often showing the technician a clear, detailed alignment report. This minimizes human error and increases the efficiency of the process.
Why we use a computerized alignment system (like Hunter)
When we do a wheel alignment Astoria, a computerized wheel alignment system like the Hunter machine is much more precise, reducing the risk of errors. The Hunter machine uses advanced sensors and software, while manual alignment relies on traditional tools and human judgment. It also offers faster, more efficient alignment. Manual alignment is more prone to human error, while the Hunter system eliminates this concern.
Overall, a computerized alignment system like the Hunter machine alignment is typically the more accurate, faster, and modern choice, while a manual alignment might be cheaper but could take longer and may not be as precise.
If you are in the New York area and need a wheel alignment for your vehicle, then our shop for Auto Repair Queens is able to help you.