2020 International MV Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2020 International MV, front axle alignment adjustability typically includes toe and sometimes caster, depending on the specific suspension configuration and components. Front toe is generally adjusted via tie rod ends, which can be shortened or lengthened to change the individual and total toe settings. Some International MV models may offer limited, or no, factory adjustment for front camber or caster. If camber or caster adjustments are required beyond the factory-intended design, aftermarket solutions like eccentric bushings for control arm pivots or shims may be necessary. These modifications allow for incremental changes to the suspension geometry to bring the vehicle back into specification. It is crucial to consult the official International service manual for specific procedures and limitations related to your vehicle's exact build.

The rear axle of a heavy-duty truck like the International MV often has fixed suspension components, meaning that camber, individual toe, and total toe are typically non-adjustable from the factory. The rear axle housing is designed to be perpendicular to the vehicle's centerline, and any deviation usually indicates a bent axle, worn components, or frame damage. The primary adjustable angle on the rear is the thrust angle, which is typically corrected by loosening U-bolts or other mounting hardware that secure the axle to the leaf springs or trailing arms, allowing for slight rotation or lateral movement of the axle. This adjustment ensures the rear wheels are tracking straight with the front wheels, preventing dog-tracking and premature tire wear.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For the 2020 International MV, most alignment adjustments, particularly for the front toe, are performed using the existing tie rod end components. If a vehicle requires front camber or caster adjustment beyond the factory allowance, aftermarket solutions would be necessary. These might include:

• Eccentric bushings: These can be installed in the control arm pivots to provide a range of camber or caster adjustment.
• Offset shims: Used in conjunction with certain suspension designs to alter the angle of the spindle or control arm mounting points.

For rear thrust angle adjustments, the existing mounting hardware for the rear axle (U-bolts, spring pins, or torque rods) is typically loosened to allow for repositioning of the axle. It's imperative to use OEM-specified torque values when re-tightening any suspension components to ensure safety and proper function.

Symptoms of bad alignment

A misaligned 2020 International MV can exhibit several symptoms, most notably related to tire wear and vehicle handling:

• Feathering: This indicates excessive toe-in or toe-out. The tread blocks will be worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, creating a feathered or saw-toothed appearance across the tread.
• Cupping/Scalloping: While often associated with worn shocks or unbalanced tires, severe alignment issues, especially with caster or camber, can contribute to irregular, scooped-out wear patterns around the tire's circumference.
• Excessive Outer or Inner Shoulder Wear: This is a classic sign of incorrect camber. Positive camber will cause wear on the outer shoulder of the tire, while negative camber will wear the inner shoulder.
• Vehicle Pulling: If the vehicle consistently drifts or pulls to one side while driving on a flat road, it's often a sign of incorrect caster or camber settings on the front axle, or a severe thrust angle issue on the rear.
• Steering Wheel Not Centered: If the steering wheel is off-center when the vehicle is traveling straight, it's a strong indicator of incorrect toe settings.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: Misaligned wheels create increased rolling resistance, leading to diminished fuel efficiency over time.

When to align

It is recommended to have the wheel alignment checked on your 2020 International MV in several situations:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components such as tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, springs, or steering gears are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Tire Replacement: While not always required, new tires are a significant investment, and ensuring correct alignment will maximize their lifespan.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Obstacle: Impacts with curbs, potholes, or other road hazards can knock the alignment out of specification or even bend suspension components.
• When Noticing Symptoms: If you observe any of the alignment symptoms mentioned above, such as abnormal tire wear or a pulling vehicle.
• Periodically as Preventative Maintenance: Even without obvious symptoms, a periodic alignment check (e.g., annually or every 50,000 miles, as recommended by manufacturer or your fleet's maintenance schedule) can help identify minor issues before they become major problems.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a commercial truck wheel alignment on a 2020 International MV can vary significantly based on location, shop rates, and the complexity of the adjustments required. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 or more for a comprehensive front and rear axle alignment. This cost can increase if additional labor is needed to free seized components, or if specialized aftermarket hardware is required to achieve proper specifications.

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