Toe Out On Turns

The angle of the steering arm on the steering knuckle determines the turning radius. It's known as the Toe Out On Turns or the TOOT angle. This angle keeps the front tires from squealing around corners. When a vehicle turns, the inside wheel travels less distance and has a shorter turning radius than the outside wheel.

The TOOT angle is built into the steering arm and causes the tire to Toe Out On Turns. Toe out on turns or TOOT is not adjustable, and when out of specifications, something in the steering linkage, like the steering arm, is bent or damaged.

Check the TOOT angle as part of a total alignment after setting the toe or if there's a problem with the tires squealing around corners. Today's alignment racks typically display this angle on the screen. The angle is also on the protractor found on the turn plates.

The inside wheel turns at a greater angle (with more toe-out) than the outside wheel. The manufacturer may specify a 19 ° angle on the outside wheel and a 21 ° angle on the inside wheel with a tolerance of 1 ½ °. The technician can quickly determine the vehicle's TOOT angle by turning the wheel to the left until it reaches 21 ° and then checking the other side's turn plate. The same procedure is performed on the opposite side of the vehicle and compared to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.

Check this angle if the vehicle's tires squeal while turning a corner, even at low speeds. This condition feathers or scuffs the front tires if left unrepaired. It is a non-adjustable angle. A steering arm or member of the steering system is likely at fault; replacing the faulty part brings the angle back to specifications.