2020 Kenworth T680 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Maintaining proper wheel alignment on your 2020 Kenworth T680 is crucial for maximizing tire life, optimizing fuel efficiency, and ensuring safe handling. As a heavy-duty truck, the T680 experiences significant stresses, making regular alignment checks even more important. This guide provides an overview of alignment specifications, adjustability, and common issues.

Adjustability

On a 2020 Kenworth T680, front axle adjustable angles typically include caster and total toe. Caster is often adjusted using shims between the leaf springs and the axle or through eccentric bushings/washers on the spring pins. Total toe is usually adjusted by lengthening or shortening the tie rods.

Front camber is generally non-adjustable from the factory on heavy-duty trucks like the T680. If camber is out of specification, it often indicates worn kingpins, bent axle beams, or damaged suspension components. While camber kits (e.g., adjustable kingpin inclination kits or axle correction) exist, they are usually a last resort after addressing underlying issues. SAI (Steering Axis Inclination) is also non-adjustable and is a geometric angle built into the steering knuckle and axle. Deviations in SAI often point to bent suspension components.

For the rear axles, thrust angle and total toe are typically the primary adjustable angles. Thrust angle is corrected by shifting the axle laterally in relation to the frame, often by adjusting U-bolts or shims on leaf-spring mounts, especially on multi-leaf spring setups. Rear individual toe is not generally an adjustable spec on these vehicles; rather, the focus is on overall thrust angle and ensuring the axles are square to the frame. Rear camber is also non-adjustable and relies on a straight axle housing and proper wheel bearing assembly. If rear camber is out, it indicates a bent axle housing or wheel hub issues.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For most Kenworth T680 alignment adjustments, standard OEM-style shims, eccentric bushings, or tie rod ends are used. Heavy-duty truck alignment shops are typically equipped with robust tools and parts for these adjustments. Specific aftermarket cam bolts or kits are less common for factory adjustments on the T680 compared to light-duty vehicles, as the primary adjustments on heavy trucks are often made using shims or by repositioning components.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Bad alignment on your Kenworth T680 can manifest in several ways, primarily affecting tire wear and vehicle handling:

• Feathering: When the tread ribs are worn lower on one side and higher on the other, creating a