Why so much positive camber ?

[Arky217]

I have a Kubota L4200; from the first day I got it, I've wondered why it has so much positive camber on the front wheels. (I tend to notice these things since I was a front end mechanic in what seems like was a previous life).

As measured from the middle of the tire's sidewall top to bottom, it has 1.125" positive camber on each side. That's a lot.

I haven't looked any other tractors to compare it to, but I wonder if all tractors or all Kubota tractors are like that. Maybe it's a 4wd thing.

Anyone notice that on your tractor, and/or have any idea why they're made like that ?

 

[David_Kb7uns]

Found this from Wikipedia on Camber angle.

"Off-road vehicles such as agricultural tractors generally use positive camber. In such vehicles, the positive camber angle helps to achieve a lower steering effort"

David Kb7uns

 

[timswi]

Found this from Wikipedia on Camber angle.

"Off-road vehicles such as agricultural tractors generally use positive camber. In such vehicles, the positive camber angle helps to achieve a lower steering effort"

David Kb7uns

That's what I've understood as well. I see it on alot of tractors. Everyting I've ever had leaves a trail in the gravel from the front tires, including, tractors, quads and utility vehicles. It can he hard on tires though.

 

[luc]

My guess would be that it has to do with reducing the strain on the wheel/axle bearings.
With no or negative camber, the tire contact patch would be further away from the bearing therefore creating more leverage/load.
i can see how important it would be, especially with a fully loaded FEL

 

[Yankee Clipper]

Another thought I have heard expressed is that under load, the axle tends to straighten out slightly so the tire ground contact is improved.

Sounds like a bit of stretch to me - no pun intended.

 

[kuboman]

Positive camber helps with turning.

 

[rScotty]

I don't believe that the camber is adjustable on the vintage Yanmar 2wd or 4wd front axle.
The toe-in is adjustable in the typical fashion via a threaded collar on the tie rod.
Adjustment is 1/8 to 3/8" IN. Most everyone sets it at a quarter inch toe-in.
rScotty