Tru-Line TLT Series Operation manual

1
Operation and Service Manual
Laser Wheel Alignment System
TLT-12
Truck, Trailer, and RV
Alignment System
8231 Blaine Rd.
Blaine, WA 98230
360-371-0552 Phone
800-496-3777 Toll Free
www.Tru-Line.net

2
Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................... 3
How it Works...................................................................................................................... 4
Reading the Targets: ....................................................................................................... 4
Unpacking and Assembling the System.............................................................................. 5
Calibration Procedures........................................................................................................ 7
Calibrating the camber of the TLT-30. ........................................................................... 7
Calibrating the TLT-56 Digital Level…......................................................................... 8
Calibrating the toe settings for TLT-36 right Laser Gun and TLT-37 left Laser Gun.... 9
Calibration of the TLT-44................................................................................................. 10
General Alignment Procedure........................................................................................... 13
Mounting the TLT–28 Wheel Clamps.............................................................................. 15
Run-Out Procedure ........................................................................................................... 16
Run Out Procedure:....................................................................................................... 16
Accommodating Oversize Truck Tires ............................................................................. 19
Measuring Camber:....................................................................................................... 20
Measuring Caster: ......................................................................................................... 20
Measuring Caster with the TLT-56 Digital Level. .......................................................22
Measuring SAI/KPI ...................................................................................................... 21
Measuring Caster, Camber and SAI/KPI on a Non-Level Surface................................... 23
To Measure Camber on a Non-Level Surface .............................................................. 23
To Measure the Side to Side Tilt for SAI/KPI.............................................................. 23
To Measure Front to Rear Tilt for Caster ..................................................................... 24
Live Caster Adjustment .................................................................................................... 25
Two-Wheel Centerline Alignment.................................................................................... 26
Reading Toe Procedure:................................................................................................ 26
Two-Wheel Centerline Alignment Procedure: ............................................................. 26
Tracking & Offset ............................................................................................................. 29
Tracking Procedure:...................................................................................................... 29
Offset Procedure: .......................................................................................................... 30
MAINTENANCE, WARRANTY & SERVICE .............................................................. 32
Maintenance:................................................................................................................. 32
Two Year Limited Warranty......................................................................................... 32
SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS ........................................................................................ 33

3
Introduction
The Tru-Line TLT-12 Laser Wheel Alignment System consists of the following
components:
2- TLT-28 Truck Wheel Clamps 1- TLT-41 Calibration Bar
1- TLT-30 Easy Check Gauge 1- TLT-44 Level Compensator
1- TLT-31 Brake Pedal Depressor 1- TLT-51 Calibration Laser
1- TLT-32 Steering Wheel Holder 1- TLT-52 Wheel Centering Target
1- TLT-36 Right Laser Gun 1- TLT-53 King Pin Center Target
1- TLT-37 Left Laser Gun 1- TLT-56 Digital Level
Documentation
Optional components:
TL – 28 Passenger Car Wheel Clamps TLT – 502 Case
TLT – 29 Aluminum Wheel Adapters TLT – 60 Frame Centering Targets
Note: Drawings of each component is included in the procedure sections to follow.
These components can be used with an alignment rack, turntables, or slip plates in the
front to do an alignment. No dedicated rack or level surface is required. Alignment of
vehicles can be easily done almost anywhere and the type of vehicle range from Tractors,
Trailers, Busses, R.V. `s, and other types of heavy equipment. All types of alignments
can be done, the most common being toe, two-wheel centerline, tracking/tandem, and
offset.
The Laser Guns are stored on the Calibration Bar, so that a complete calibration of the
system can easily be done before use. The components can also be hung on a wall. It is
recommended that the system be checked for calibration before each use and recalibrated
when needed.
Tru-Line is pleased to have you and your company as a client. We are available to you to
answer any questions that you may have. Please feel free to contact us if there is anything
further we can do to make Tru-Line a better product for you and your company.
Tru-Line
8231 Blaine Rd.
Blaine, WA 98230
360-371-0552 phone
800-496-3777 toll free
www.tru-line.net

4
How it Works
The TLT-12 wheel alignment system measures Caster, Camber, SAI/KPI, Toe,
Tracking/Tandem, and Offset. These alignments can reference the mechanical or actual
centerline of the vehicle. Two-wheel centerline, tracking, and four-wheel total alignments
can be made. Depending on the model of vehicle being aligned, the technician chooses
which type of alignment to do.
Although this manual presents standard two-wheel, tracking/tandem, and offset
alignment procedures, other variations are possible. The procedures that have been laid
out in the manual are a guideline that is proven in the field. The technician can vary from
the procedures to accommodate what they are comfortable with.
All measuring gauges are mounted on the wheel clamps by hanging them on the
mounting disk. If a clamp is dropped you will not damage the system itself. The Easy
Check Gauge is used to measure caster, camber and SAI/KPI. The two Laser Guns and
the wheel targets are used to measure Toe, Tracking/Tandem, and Offset.
Reading the Targets:
1. The toe scale is used to dial desired toe specifications into both Laser Boxes. Toe
can be measured in millimeters, inches, or degrees. The toe scale is located on the
top of each Laser Box and is used in conjunction with the toe adjustment knobs
and dial rings.
2. The centering targets are used in two-wheel centerline, Tracking/Tandem, and
Offset alignment. The target is primarily used to measure the distance from the
vehicle centerline. These targets can also be used on a trailer to identify the
Tracking/Tandem, and Offset of the wheels.
3. The camber scale can be found on the Easy Check Gauge. Camber can be
measured on all wheels
4. The caster scale is on the Easy Check Gauge. Caster is measured on the front
wheels. The bubble on the caster scale is adjusted with knob on the bottom right-
hand corner of the Easy Check Gauge.
5. Caster can also be measured with a Digital Level, eliminating the need for costly
and heavy turn tables.
6. The SAI/KPI scale is on the top of the Easy Check Gauge. SAI/KPI is measured
on the front wheels. The Easy Check Gauge should be locked in place during
SAI/KPI measurement, which is done with the locking screw tightened onto the
mounting disk.

5
Locking Knob
Mounting Disk
Locking Nut
Height Adjustment Screw
Unpacking and Assembling the System
The system is shipped for the most part complete and ready to use. However, you will
need to assemble a couple of items in order to use the system to its fullest capability.
1. To assemble the TLT-41 Calibration Bar (Fig. 1). Locate the bar which looks like a
black bar with three disks on one end. Then locate the legs for this bar. They look like a
“T”. Assemble the bar with the provided screws in the bottom of the bar. You will need a
5/32” hex key for this.
Figure 1
2. To assemble the TLT-44 Level Compensator Bar, (Fig. 2) you will find in the crate a
long bar with two pieces attached to it. You will need to slide on the base foot assembly.
When finished it should look like this.
Match to Tread Width
Figure 2

6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
3 2 1
8 7 6 5 4
12 11 10 9
3. Next you will find a pair of targets. These targets mount either on the King Pin Target
kit, (Fig. 3) or the Wheel Chock Target Stands (Fig. 4). The targets have plastic
thumbscrews for easy mounting and dismounting. Please note that when assembling these
Targets, they must be mounted exactly mirror image from each other in order to obtain
the highest accuracy. When assembled they should look like this:
Target Kits
Figure 3
Wheel Chock Target
Figure 4

7
Calibration Procedures
Using the TLT-41 Calibration Bar, you are able to calibrate the TLT-12 wheel alignment
system, which consist of the TLT-30 EZ Check Gauge, TLT-36 right Laser Gun, and
TLT-37 left Laser Gun. For maximum accuracy, it is important to check and, if
necessary, recalibrate the alignment system regularly.
Calibrating the camber of the TLT-30.
Note: There is a pivot plate at the end of the TLT-41, which has a mounting disc
attached to the end, a small bubble vial affixed to the plate, and an adjustment knob. The
pivot plate is designed to eliminate any pitch in the bar or non-level surface. It is used to
calibrate the camber vials on the TLT-30.
1) Place the TLT-30 EZ Check gauge, (Fig. 6) on the mountingdisc of the pivot
plate. This is located on the end of the TLT-41 calibration bar.
2) Use adjustment knob, just above the pivot plate, to center the bubble inside the
cross-section of the vial. This must be done with the gauge on the disc.
3) Check the camber scale on the gauge. If the bubble of the camber scale is at zero,
the gauge is calibrated. However, if the camber bubble is not at the zero position,
the gauge must be adjusted, until the camber bubble is zeroed.
Note: It does not matter which portion of the bubble you use, the top,
bottom, or middle portion can be used with equal precision. What’s
important is that once you have decided on which part of the bubble to
use, you are consistent.
a. If adjustments are needed, use the camber adjustment knob, which is in the
middle of the vertical post of the gauge.
4) Once the camber bubble is zeroed on the camber scale, calibration is complete for
the camber on that gauge.
SAI Scale
SAI Lock
Camber Zero Set
Caster Scale
Caster Zero Adjustment
Camber Scale
TLT-30 Easy Check Gauge
Figure 6

8
Calibrating the TLT-56 Digital Level
Note: There is a separate set of detailed instructions included with the TLT-56 Digital
Level (AccuLevell™).
1) Place the TLT-56 Digital Level on a flat surface.
2) Wait ten (10) seconds.
3) Push and hold the CALIBRATE button for 2seconds. (-1-) will appear briefly on
the display.
4) Rotate the TLT-56 Digital Level end for end. Wait ten (10) seconds.
5) Push the CALIBRATE button again. (-2-) will appear briefly on the display.
The TLT-56 Digital Level has now been calibrated for level.

9
Calibrating the toe settings for TLT-36 right Laser Gun
and TLT-37 left Laser Gun.
1) Place the TLT-41 Calibration Bar on a firm surface orientated so that the end of
the bar that has the mounting discs on it is opposite of a clear distance of at least
twenty (20’) feet. Hang a laser gun on one of the discs of the TLT-41 Calibration
Bar. Level the laser gun and turn it on pointing towards the clear distance of at
least twenty feet (20’) away. Zero the Toe Dial.
2) Go out a distance of at least twenty feet (20’) and place one of the Centering
Target Flags so that the Target Scale is level with the laser gun.
3) Remove the Laser Gun and replace it with the TLT-51 Calibration Laser. Once
the TLT-51 Calibration Laser is on the disc, turn it on and point it at the Centering
Target that is twenty (20’) feet away.
4) Adjust the Centering Target Flag so that the laser beam from the TLT-51
Calibration Laser is on either the #2 or #11 of the Centering Target Scale.
5) Remove the TLT-51 Calibration Laser and place it on the opposite disc. Point the
laser beam at the Centering Target Flag and make note of the number it is on,
either the #2 or #11. The TLT-41 Calibration Bar is now on center with the
Centering Target Flag.
6) Remove the TLT-51 and hang both Laser Guns (TLT-36 & 37) on the discs of the
TLT-41 Calibration Bar and secure them by gently pressing down on the laser
gun. There should be a slight snap when the plunger locks into place on the disc.
Level them at the Centering Target Flag; turn them on and set the Toe Dials on
Zero.
7) Make note of where the laser beams hit the Centering Target Flag that is Twenty
(20’) away. I.E. the #2 and #11. Take the other Centering Target Flag and place it
in front of the laser beams at the end of the Laser Guns.
8) Make note of where the laser beams hit the Centering Target. Note: You may
have to flip the Centering Target upside down in order to read the target on the
same numbers as the far target.
9) If the distance marks on the near Centering Target is not the same as the distance
mark on step 7. Adjust either, one or both Toe Dials until an equal distance mark
is obtained both at the near reading in step 8 and the far reading in step 7. I.E. if
the Left Laser Gun hits the #1.5 on the far Centering Target and the Right Laser
Gun hits the #11, and on the near Centering Target the Left Laser Gun hits the #2
and the Right Gun hits the #11. Then only the Left Laser Gun would have to be
adjusted to make the laser beams parallel.
10) In case an adjustment is required. To reset the dial ring to zero, (Fig. 7) on the
scale of the laser box. Loosen the two 1/16 hex screws on the toe knob enough to
move the dial ring freely. Now tighten the hex screws.

10
1/16th Hex Screws
Ring Scale
Zero Mark
Dial Ring
Figure 7
Calibration of the TLT-44
To calibrate TLT-44 it must be assembled. Figure 20 shows the bar placed under the front
wheels of the vehicle to be measured. Since the bar rests near the front wheels, it is tilted
the same amount as the vehicle. The compensation procedure that follows corrects for the
tilt. After assembly, the bar is calibrated according to the following procedure on the
following page.

11
Caster Zero Knob
Red Side
Locking Nut
Locking Knob
Height Adjustment Screw
TLT-44 Level Compensator Bar Calibration Procedure
1. Place the bar on a firm surface. One side of the bar has a red dot (called the red
side). Place the bar with the red side on the left.(Fig. 8)
Figure 8
2. Hang the TL-30 Easy Check Angle Gauge on the red side disk in the normal way
and zero the caster bubble using the caster zero knob. (Fig. 9)
Figure 9
3. Reverse the bar on the ground so that the foot nearest the red side is now the black
side. Place the gauge on the black side which is now on the left. Read the caster
bubble and note the reading. (Fig. 10)
Figure 10
4. Loosen the nut to adjust the height. Adjust the screw until the caster bubble is one
half of the way back to zero. Lock the nut until tight. Do not over tighten. (Fig.
11)
Read Caster Bubble
Locking Nut
Black Side
Locking Knob
Height Adjustment Screw
Red Side
Locking Nut
Locking Knob
Height Adjustment Screw

12
Figure 11
If the bar is properly calibrated, the caster reading will be the same with the bar returned
to the original position (red side on the left).
Once the bar is calibrated, it should not require recalibration. Even so, it is wise to
periodically verify the calibration.
Caster Bubble 1/2
way to Zero
Locking Nut
Black Side
Locking Knob
Height Adjustment Screw

13
General Alignment Procedure
The following section is an overall guide for performing an alignment with the TLT-12.
The steps listed below are meant to give a basic understanding of what procedures are
used and how they are performed to accomplish wheel alignment. The steps given should
generally be followed in the same order as they have been placed. It may also be helpful
keep this procedure close at hand.
Note: Prior to any alignment it must be decided what type of alignment is to be
performed and the system must checked for calibration.
1) Check calibration of the TLT-12 alignment system.
2) Put the vehicle on a rack, or other appropriate setup. Perform standard pre-
alignment checks and inspections. Remember, no alignment can be properlydone
with loose or worn suspension parts.
3) Mount the TLT-28 wheel clamps on the two wheels. The aluminum feet can be
mounted on either the inside or outside of the rims, whichever is more convenient.
Make sure the wheel clamps are securely in place.
4) To adjust run out using the TLT-30 EZ Check gauge:
a) Raise the vehicle, so the wheels can rotate freely.
b) Place the TLT-30 on the disk located on the TLT-28 wheel clamp.
c) Using the TLT-30 gauge, and with the installation knob on the TLT-28 at
a 12 o’clock position, set the caster bubble to zero.
d) Rotate the wheel so that the installation knob is at a 6 o’clock position.
e) Using the RED knob on the TLT-28 wheel clamp adjust the bubble on the
TLT-30 halfway to the zero position using the numbers on the caster scale.
f) Rotate the TLT-28 to a 3 o’clock position and adjust caster bubble to zero
again.
g) Rotate the wheel to the 9 o’clock position and adjust the bubble to halfway
between zero and the reading using the two knobs not yet adjusted on the
TLT-28 clamp.
h) With the TLT-30 held in a level position with one hand (do not grasp or
hold tightly), rotate the wheel one full turn while watching the caster
bubble. Here the bubble should not move more than 1/8 of a bubble. If the
bubble moves more than 1/8 of a bubble, repeat the procedure.
Note: For a Two-wheel Centerline toe, run-out should be done on the front
wheels. When checking tracking/tandem and offset, run-out is not required but
is recommended.

14
5) Lower the vehicle to settle the suspension. Be sure that the front turning plates are
released and move freely.
6) Hang the TLT-30 on the left front wheel clamp to measure camber, caster and
SAI/KPI.
a. For camber readings: with the tire in a straight-ahead position, take the
reading of the camber bubble on the TLT-30.
b. For caster readings: swing the tire out 20 degrees and adjust the caster
bubble to zero. Then, swing the tire in 20 degrees and note the reading of
the caster bubble.
c. SAI/KPI: lock the brakes with the brake pedal depressor, then swing the
tire out 20 degrees, zero the SAI/KPI scale on the top of the TLT-30,and
lock the gauge in place, swing in 20 degrees and note the reading.
d. Record each reading for comparison with desired specifications.
e. Repeat process on the right front wheel.
Note: Any and all adjustments to caster, camber, or SAI/KPI if required, must
be made before measuring toe.
7) Hang the TLT-36 right laser gun and TLT-37 left laser gun on the front wheel
clamps so the lasers will “shoot” towards the rear of the vehicle.
a. Turn the laser guns on and point them to the rear centering targets, which
should be placed next to the rear tires of the truck.
8) For Two-wheel Centerline set the toe dial on theTLT-36 and TLT-37 to desired
toe specifications i.e. 1/8” it equals a total of 1/8” overall toe or 1/16”on each
side.
Make adjustments as needed.

15
Mounting the TLT–28 Wheel Clamps
The wheel clamps, (Fig 12) can be attached to either the inside or the outside of the rim
(whichever is easiest). They can be mounted on a wheel rim 17 inches to 25 inches in
diameter, and the aluminum feet are less likely to damage polished aluminum rims.
Mounting the Wheel Clamps:
1) Adjust the clamping knob either in or out until the feet will fit the wheel rim.
2) Rotate the mounting feet until they are all facing either the inside or outside of the
rim. (This depends upon which side of the rim the wheel clamps aremounted.)
3) Place the mounting feet onto the rim. Make sure they are all attached to the rim.
4) Use the clamping knob to tighten the feet to the rim.
5) Make sure the mounting feet are securely on the rim. If they are not securely
attached, tap each leg with the palm of your hand and tighten the feet a little more
with the clamping knob. (Repeat this process, until the mounting feet are secure.)
6) Perform the run-out procedure on the appropriate wheel clamps.
Note: Although the slide plate assembly is usually centered, for a large diameter tire, you
can loosen the locking screws and move the slide plate to the edge of wheel clamp; then,
tighten the locking screws. This will assure that the laser will shoot across the rear of the
tires. Do this before performing run-out.
All the gauges are to be hung on the mounting disk of each wheel clamp. The disk does
not need to be centered on the wheel, and the wheel clamp can be at any rotation on the
wheel. When the wheel clamps have been adjusted for run-out, they rotate along the same
axis as the wheel.
Finally, the three knobs that are just underneath the disk are used, in conjunction with the
TLT-30, to adjust for run-out. The RED knob will adjust the vertical angle of the disk
and, the two BLACK knobs will adjust the horizontal angle of the disk. For example:
when the adjustment knob is either in the 12 o’clock or 6 o’clock position, use the RED
knob to make adjustments. Or, when the Red adjustment knob is either in the 3 o’clock or
9 o’clock position, use the two BLACK knobs to make adjustments.
Mounting Disk
Black Runout Adjusting Knob (2)
Red Runout Adjusting Knob
Center Slide Assembly
Locking Screws (2)
ClampingKnob
Mounting Feet
TLT-28 Wheel Clamp
Figure 12

16
Run-Out Procedure
Once the wheel clamps have been mounted, a simple run-out procedure should be
performed.
The following should be completed before run out adjustments are made:
•Front wheel clamps must be installed
•The vehicle must be raised, so the wheels can rotate freely.
Run Out Procedure:
1) Place the TLT-30 on the disk extending from the wheel clamp.
2) Level the TLT-30, using the SAI scale on the top of the post. Make sure the
TLT-30 can move easily, so that it stays relatively level when the wheel clamp is
rotated.
3) Rotate the wheel clamp until the clamping knob is at a 12:00 o’clock position (Fig
13). Set the caster bubble to zero on the caster scale; this is done with the caster
adjustment knob, which is located on body of the TLT-30.
Figure 13
4) Rotate the wheel clamp ½ turn; the clamping knob should be at a 6:00 o’clock
position (Fir 14).

17
Caster Zero Adjustment
Figure 14
5) Level the TLT-30 and read the number on the caster scale.
6) Adjust the bubble to the point halfway between zero and the current reading using
the RED knob on the TLT-28. (When making this adjustment, it is important not
to move the bubble with the caster adjustment knob.)
7) Rotate the wheel ¼ turn to the right, so the clamping knob is at a 9:00 o’clock
position (Fig 15).
Figure 15
8) Level the TLT-30, and set the caster bubble to zero with caster adjustment knob.
Caster Zero
Adjustment

18
9) Rotate the wheel ½ turn, until the clamping knob is at a 3:00 o’clock position (Fig
16).
Red Adjustment Knob
Figure 16
10) Level the TLT-30, and read the number on the caster scale.
11) Adjust the caster bubble to the point halfway between zero and the current
reading, using the two BLACK knobs on the wheel clamp.
12) Rotate the wheel until the clamping knob is at a 12:00 o’clock position (Fig 17).
Level the TLT-30, and adjust the caster knob until the caster bubble reads zero.
Figure 17
With the TLT-30 held in a level position with one hand (do not grasp or hold tightly),
rotate the wheel one full turn while watching the caster bubble. If the bubble does not
move more than 1/8”, the run-out procedure is complete; otherwise, repeat the procedure.

19
Accommodating Oversize Truck Tires
Although the Tru-Line TLT series alignment system is designed to align vehicles with
rim diameters up to 25”, alignment of vehicles with larger rim and tire diameters is
possible. By offsetting the center assembly of the TLT-28 Wheel Clamp is to
accommodate the laser to reach around the oversize tire as seen in the diagram below.
The run-out will still need to performed in the same fashion spelled out in the run-out
procedure section. Caster, Camber, and SAI/KPI are all performed in same fashion in the
according sections.
One Size Wheel Configuration
Figure 18

20
Measuring Caster, Camber, SAI/KPI with the TL-30
Easy Check Angle Gauge
Measuring Caster, Camber, SAI/KPI is very simple and fast.
Before performing these measurements:
•The equipment must be calibrated.
•The wheel clamps must be mounted and adjusted for run out.
•The full weight of the vehicle must be on its wheels.
•It is recommended to use turntables and when measuring caster, and SAI/KPI.
Measuring Camber:
Camber readings are taken on the front wheels with the TLT-30 Easy Check Gauge.
To measure rear camber, use the bubble scale on each of the Combi Gauges. (Note
that rear camber only needs to be adjusted when performing a four-wheel alignment.)
1) Hang the TLT-30 on the left front wheel clamp to measure camber.
2) With the wheels in a straight-ahead position, note the reading of the camber
bubble on the TLT-30 and compare with desired specifications.
3) Repeat process on the right front wheel clamp.
Note: Any and all adjustments to camber must be made before measuring toe.
Measuring Caster:
Caster readings are taken on the front wheels, using the TLT-30 & a set of Turn Tables.
1) Hang the TLT-30 on the left front wheel clamp to measure caster.
2) Install brake pedal depressor and lock brakes so they do not rotate. With
power brakes start the engine and install brake pedal depressor.
3) Release the pin on the turntable. This allows the wheel to pivot, or turn,freely.
4) From a straight-ahead position, turn the wheel out 20 degrees. (Use the scale
on the turntable to confirm swing.)
5) Level the TLT-30, using the SAI scale on the top of the TLT-30; adjust the
caster bubble to zero, using the knob on the body of the TLT-30.
6) Turn the wheel in a total of 40 degrees, or until the wheel is 20 degrees in on
the scale of the turntable.
7) Read the number corresponding to the bubble on the caster scale; Record and
compare the reading to the desired specifications.
8) Repeat this process on the right front wheel.
Note: Any and all adjustments to caster must be made before measuring toe.
3
2
+
1
1
A 2
M
3
B 6
C 0
E 5
4
R
-
3
3
5
4
6
C- 6
A
S
T
E
R
4
5
1
3
2
0
1
2
4
3
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
+
12