2017 Volvo VNL Wheel Alignment Specifications

Proper wheel alignment on a heavy-duty Class 8 truck like the 2017 Volvo VNL is absolutely critical for maximizing fuel economy, extending the life of expensive steer and drive tires, and reducing driver fatigue. Unlike passenger vehicles, heavy-duty trucks utilize solid I-beam steer axles and tandem drive axles, meaning alignment procedures and specifications follow a very different set of rules. However, the core principles of geometry remain the same.

Below, you will find the factory-recommended wheel alignment specifications and adjustment guidelines for the 2017 Volvo VNL.

Quick reference

Here is the quick reference chart for the 2017 Volvo VNL wheel alignment specifications. Note: Since this is a commercial truck with tandem rear axles, the "Rear" specifications refer to the alignment and tracking of the drive axles (often measured in thrust angle and scrub).

(Note: Always refer to your specific VIN and axle manufacturer—like Hendrickson, Meritor, or Volvo’s proprietary axles—if you are equipping specialized suspension packages.)

Adjustability

Adjusting a 2017 Volvo VNL is not like turning cam bolts on a standard independent front suspension. The adjustability is dictated by the heavy-duty solid axle and trailing arm/leaf spring setups.

Front (Steer Axle):

• Total Toe: This is the most frequently adjusted angle and is fully adjustable from the factory via the cross-tube (tie rod) connecting the two steer knuckles.
• Caster: Caster is adjustable, but not by simply turning a bolt. It requires the installation of angled steel shims (caster wedges) between the steer axle pad and the leaf spring.
• Camber: Factory front camber is machined into the solid steel I-beam axle and is largely non-adjustable. If camber is out of specification, it usually indicates a bent axle housing, worn kingpins, or worn wheel bearings. Cold-bending the axle is an older technique that many modern axle manufacturers advise against.

Rear (Drive Axles):

• Thrust Angle (Tracking): The tandem drive axles must push parallel to the centerline of the chassis. Thrust angle can be adjusted by adding or removing shims at the torque rod mounts or by adjusting threaded torque rods (if equipped). Total alignment of a Volvo VNL requires setting the front axle thrust to zero, then aligning the front drive axle to the chassis centerline, and finally aligning the rear drive axle to the front drive axle.
• Camber/Toe: Solid rear drive axles have fixed camber and toe. If these are out of range, the axle housing is likely bent.

Recommended adjustment hardware

To get a 2017 Volvo VNL perfectly tracked and driving straight down the highway, commercial alignment technicians often rely on specific hardware:

• Caster Wedges/Shims: Used to tilt the solid front axle forward or backward to correct caster and prevent steering wander.
• Adjustable Torque Rods: For the rear tandem drive axles, aftermarket or OEM adjustable torque rods can replace solid factory rods to easily fine-tune the thrust angle and tandem scrub.
• Kingpin Shim Kits: While not directly for alignment angle adjustment, keeping kingpin end-play tight is required before any alignment can be successfully performed.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Tires for a Class 8 truck are a massive expense. Catching a bad alignment early can save thousands of dollars. Look out for these symptoms:

• Feathering on Steer Tires: If the tread blocks feel smooth when you rub your hand across them one way, but sharp the other way, your toe is out of adjustment. Too much toe-in causes outside feathering; toe-out causes inside feathering.
• Dog-Tracking: If the truck looks like it is driving down the highway at an angle, the rear thrust angle is out of spec. This forces the driver to constantly steer slightly left or right to keep the truck straight.
• One-Sided Wear: Excessive camber (usually due to a worn kingpin or bent axle) will cause smooth, accelerated wear on either the inside or outside shoulder of the steer tires.
• Wandering or Heavy Steering: Not enough positive caster will make the truck wander at highway speeds, requiring constant corrections. Too much positive caster will make the steering wheel excessively heavy and hard to turn.

When to align

Heavy-duty trucks rack up miles faster than any other vehicle. You should perform a three-axle alignment on your 2017 Volvo VNL under the following circumstances:

• Annually or every 80,000 to 100,000 miles: Preventative maintenance alignments are crucial for fleet efficiency.
• After suspension or steering work: Anytime you replace kingpins, tie rod ends, drag links, leaf springs, or torque rods.
• When installing new steer tires: Never mount a set of $1,000 steer tires without verifying your toe and caster settings first.
• After a heavy impact: Hitting a massive pothole, curb, or road debris can shift axles or bend suspension components.

Typical alignment cost

Because aligning a Class 8 truck requires a large bay, specialized heavy-duty laser alignment equipment, and significant physical labor to loosen heavy fasteners and install shims, it costs more than a standard car alignment. A standard three-axle alignment for a 2017 Volvo VNL typically ranges from $250 to $450. If adjustable torque rods need to be installed or kingpins are worn, the parts and labor costs will increase significantly.

Keep your rig driving straight and your tire costs low. Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.