Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/34501
b. Vertical Clearances Vertical clearance is measured between the top of the tread and the vehicle component immediately above the tire (usually a fender). This will vary as the springs operate. The vertical movements of the whole axle, in relation to the whole chassis, are normally limited by an axle stop. When measuring vertical clearance, subtract the axle stop clearance from the total clearance; the difference is the remaining vertical clearance. When checking vertical clearance, consideration must be given to the degree of tread wear, and an allowance of 1" must be made if the tread on the existing tire is between 2⁄32" and 4⁄ 32". Vertical and body clearances are decreased by any increase in the free radius of the tire. When using tire chains, a minimum of two inches of clearance is needed to provide space between the dual assembly and the vehicle. Check to be sure that the body clearance is not less than the vertical clearance. A fender bolt may be closer to the tire than the fender. This, then, is the smallest distance and should be recorded. Vertical Clearance Bottom View Steering Stops should be measured as they control the angle of the turn. Ensure they exist and are not damaged. Damage may indicate clearance issues or be a cause of abnormal tire wear. Body Clearance 6. OVERALL WIDTH When fitting larger tires, the overall width of the vehicle c. Longitudinal Clearances The semi-elliptical spring method of suspension permits the axle to move back longitudinally as well as vertically when the spring deflects. As a guide, the maximum backward movement may be taken as one third of the distance between the shackle pin centers. The remaining longitudinal clearance must be noted. Fixed Pivot Fixed Pivot across the tires is increased by half of the increase in the cross section of each outside tire and the increase in offset of each outside wheel. Overall Width of Body Measure Here 0” Offset 75 mm (3”) Swing Pivot Overall Width 7. SPARE WHEEL RACK Always check the spare wheel rack to see that the tire will fit. Ensure that location is not in proximity to engine exhaust. Spring Shackle Longitudinal Clearance 8. LEGAL LIMITS Most states and provinces in North America have legal limits for vehicle carrying capacities, overall vehicle dimensions, and minimum ground clearances. Each of these factors must be taken into consideration. Check with local jurisdictions. 32 Section Two: Mounting the Tire d. Front Wheel Clearances The clearances of both front wheels must be measured on both steering lock positions. Clearances of front wheels must be checked by turning the wheels from full left lock to full right lock since the minimum clearance might occur at some intermediate point. Check Clearances Here and All Positions From Lock to Lock Not Here