Thrust Line/Thrust Angle

The Thrust Line is represented by an imaginary line that bisects the rear toe angle. This angle represents the overall "direction" in which the rear wheels are pointing. The Thrust Angle is the difference between the Geometric Axis and the Thrust Line. The optimum Thrust Angle is Zero Degrees, any deviation from this will affect the position of the steering wheel.

Positive Thrust Angle  - is formed when the Thrust Line is to the right of the Geometric Axis (Centerline). When this situation occurs, the steering wheel position will be off to the right as well. The rear of the vehicle will tend to move to the right which will cause the front of the vehicle to steer left, the driver will move the steering wheel to the right to compensate.

Negative Thrust Angle  - is formed when the Thrust Line is to the left of the Geometric Axis (Centerline). When this situation occurs, the steering wheel position will be off to the left as well. The rear of the vehicle will tend to move to the left which will cause the front of the vehicle to steer right, the driver will move the steering wheel to the left to compensate.