Steering Axis Inclination Description

Steering Axis Inclination Description

Steering axis inclination (SAI) is the tilt at the top of the steering knuckle from vertical. Measure the SAI angle from the true vertical to a line through the center of the strut and the lower ball joint as viewed from the front of the vehicle.

SAI helps the vehicle track straight down the road and assists the wheel back into the straight ahead position. SAI on front wheel drive vehicles should be negative.

Included Angle

The included angle is the angle measured from the camber angle to the line through the center of the strut and the lower ball joint as viewed from the front of the vehicle.

The included angle is calculated in degrees. Most alignment racks will not measure the included angle directly. To determine the included angle, subtract the negative or add the positive camber readings to the SAI.

Scrub Radius

The scrub radius is the distance between true vertical and the line through the center of the strut and lower ball joint to the road surface. Scrub radius is built into the design of the vehicle. Scrub radius is not adjustable.

Setback

The setback is the distance in which one front hub and bearing assembly may be rearward of the other front hub and bearing assembly. Setback is primarily caused by a road hazard or vehicle collision.

Turning Angle

The turning angle is the angle of each front wheel to the vertical when the vehicle is making a turn.