Thrust Angle

Thrust angle is the averaged direction the rear wheels are pointing in relation to the vehicle's center line. See Fig 1. The presence of negative or positive thrust angle causes the rear tires to track improperly to the left or right of the front tires (dog tracking).

1. Negative thrust angle means the rear tires are tracking to the left of the front tires.
2. Positive thrust angle means the rear tires are tracking to the right of the front tires.

Fig 1: Thrust Angle

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

Improper tracking can cause undue tire wear, a lead or pull and a crooked steering wheel. Excessive thrust angle can usually be corrected by adjusting the rear wheel toe so that each wheel has one-half of the total toe measurement.