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Straight-ahead position > < Kingpin inclination

Corsa C

Offset radius

The kingpin offset is the distance (3) between the wheel contact point to the point of intersection of the steering axis centre line (1) and road, transverse to the axis of symmetry.

We distinguish between positive kingpin offset, negative kingpin offset and neutral kingpin offset. It is positive if the point of intersection to the wheel contact point is offset inwards (see picture) and negative if it is offset outwards to the wheel contact point.

 Object Number: 2400757 Size: DEFAULT

The negative kingpin offset maintains the straight ahead position during braking, in particular on different road surface composition. A vehicle tends to pull in the direction on which the greatest braking forces apply. This reaction is "countered" by a negative kingpin offset.

Effects of incorrect measurement angles

Negative kingpin offset:

  • on uneven braking effect, automatically adjust the steering in the opposite direction so the driver only has to hold the wheel still.

Positive kingpin offset:

  • gives stable straight-ahead running
  • on uneven braking effect, requires opposite steering by the driver

Kingpin offset neutral:

  • prevents the transfer of interference forces on unilateral brake application
  • prevents the transfer of interference forces to the steering on tyre defects
  • high steering forces when stopped

Straight-ahead position > < Kingpin inclination