Steve;
You didn't mention if you have wires or dics, but some of the things I've
learned struggling with fine tuning mid and high speed wheel balance on the
Jags (especially my '96 XJR (had those Damn Pirellis) and the Fiero's is
this:
1st insist that the RIM itself is spun to determine if it is more than 1/4
ounce out of round and out of parallel plane. (BOTH DIRECTIONS)-MAKE NOTES
FOR EACH WHEEEL!
One the problem wheels on my XJS Convert, and on the Fiero, I found that by
checking that they mounted the 'high spot' of the tire (new) opposite the
'imbalance' of the rim (if any), one could minimize the opposing rotational
forces at higher speeds, and get a perfect spin balance. HOWEVER:
2nd, if the balance on any wheel is more than 1/2 ounce, have them balance
the tire at 35# -40# and then at 28#. If you see a difference with the
electronic display - keep that in mind for your road speed. On the Fiero,
with one slightly out of plane rim, I found that by balancing at 35# but
running at 30# (instead of 32#) if I'm 'Jersey Turnpike speed, I can
eliminate 85% of the 'minimal harmonic imbalance that was left.'.
On my E-type, which has wire wheels, I made sure the wheels were 'spoke
tuned' 1st. We then discovered a variance in the actual rim lip of 1/8-3/16"
. I had them balance the wheel with weights first, then with the tire
mounted. That way I knew where the tire balance was in relation to the wheel
'imperfections'. On the E- Type I've had the car to 115 mp and its
absolutely perfect. These are tubed wires and therefore that car is my
'Benchmark'.
Just a tip! Wheel balance is an art that many don't fully appreciate- till
you spend hours with the 'lack of fine tuning'. That's why I bought new
Mini-lites for the TR4 and that car also has perfect wheel balance and is
smooth as silk (Its still a TR$- it has its 4 ride and other harmonics'- but
not from the wheels or from the drivetrain imbalances - just the metal fan
phenomenae I'm addressing as soon as temps are above 35^ and the snow & salt
are gone.
Sherman
Sherman D. Taffel
Columbia, MD
TRiumphs @ the Chesapeake (TRAC)
CTR
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