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How Do I Realign A Misaligned Canister Track System?

Have you ever noticed that the cans on your canister track at the grocery store don’t seem to move smoothly? The cans may bump or rub against the side guides as they move down the track. This is a sign that the canister track is misaligned or not straight. Don’t worry – with some simple steps, you can realign the track and get it working properly again.

Why Is It Important to Keep the Canister Track Aligned?

Keeping the canister track properly aligned is important for several reasons:

  • It allows cans to move smoothly down the track without bumping or rubbing. This prevents cans from getting damaged or marked up.
  • It reduces wear and tear on the side guides and other components. A misaligned track can cause unnecessary friction and grinding.
  • It prevents jams. If the track is crooked, cans are more likely to jam up.
  • It’s more energy efficient. A straight track with proper alignment requires less energy to move cans.
  • It looks nicer. Customers will notice if cans look sloppy or disorganized on a crooked track.

So keeping the canister track aligned isn’t just for looks – it makes the system work better!

How Can I Tell if My Canister Track Is Misaligned?

There are a few clear signs that your canister track needs realignment:

  • Cans bump or rub against the side guides as they move.
  • Cans move down the track unevenly, some faster than others.
  • There is squeaking, grinding or other loud noises coming from the track.
  • The track just doesn’t look straight visually.
  • Cans fall off the track around curves.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to check the alignment and make adjustments. The good news is that realigning a canister track is usually a straightforward process.

Step 1: Check That the Frame Is Level

The first thing you’ll want to check is that the entire frame and base of the canister track is level. Use a standard carpenter’s level tool to verify this. Place the level across the frame horizontally and vertically to check for levelness.

If the frame is not level, you’ll need to adjust the feet underneath to level it. Most canister track frames have adjustable leveling feet that can raise or lower each corner.

Getting the frame level provides a solid, even foundation before adjusting the tracks themselves.

Step 2: Look for Debris and Remove It

Next, inspect the entire track system and side guides for any debris that could be trapped. Look for items like small pebbles, broken pieces of plastic, dust buildup, etc. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any trapped debris you find.

Debris can keep the canister track from sliding smoothly. By removing it, you’ll eliminate any obstructions.

Step 3: Inspect for Damage and Wear

Carefully examine all parts of the canister track system to check for damage. Look for:

  • Cracks, dents or bends in the frame
  • Bends or kinks in the tracks
  • Cracked or broken wheels/rollers
  • Worn out bearings in the wheels/rollers
  • Scratches, gouges or wear on the side guides

Damaged or worn parts can prevent proper alignment. You may need to replace anything that is cracked, broken, or excessively worn.

This inspection will confirm that alignment issues are not due to bigger equipment problems.

Step 4: Adjust the Track Alignment

Now you’re ready to tackle adjusting the alignment of the canister track. There are a few possible ways to do this:

Using Alignment Rods

Many canister track systems come with two long alignment rods designed specifically for this purpose. To use them:

  1. Insert an alignment rod fully into one of the side guides, so it runs the full length of the track.
  2. Insert the second alignment rod into the opposite side guide.
  3. Gently push or tap the rods to move the side guides in or out until the rods are parallel.
  4. Tighten the side guide locking mechanisms to hold them in the aligned position.
  5. Double check with a level across the rods to confirm they are perfectly straight.

Adjusting the Side Guides

If your system doesn’t have alignment rods, you can adjust the side guides directly:

  1. Loosen the locking mechanisms on the side guides so they can slide freely.
  2. Eyeball the guides to determine which direction they need to move.
  3. Slowly slide the guides in or out until the track looks straight. Use a level periodically to check.
  4. Carefully tighten the locking mechanisms on the guides without shifting them.
  5. Test cans on the track to confirm smooth travel.

Checking the Pulleys/Wheels

Misaligned pulleys or drive wheels can also throw off track alignment. Re-check them to make sure:

  • Pulleys are parallel to each other at both ends of the track
  • Pulleys are perpendicular to the frame
  • Wheels have equal contact with the underside of the tracks

Adjust pulleys or wheels if needed before re-checking the overall alignment.

Step 5: Maintain Alignment Ongoing

Getting your canister track realigned is only half the battle. To keep cans flowing smoothly long-term, you’ll need to maintain alignment. Here are some tips:

  • Periodically check the alignment about once a month using a level or the alignment rods. Make minor adjustments as needed.
  • Keep debris cleaned out that could throw off alignment.
  • Lubricate side guides and pulleys as directed by the manufacturer.
  • Watch for signs of wear and replace damaged parts immediately.
  • When replacing side guides or wheels, check alignment after.
  • If wheels start to flatten on one side, rotate them to even out wear.

Staying on top of maintenance will prevent major alignment issues down the road. Keeping your canister track aligned takes a little work – but it’s worth it for smooth operation.

Common Questions About Canister Track Alignment

How often should I check the alignment?

You should check the alignment about once a month in a frequently used canister track. For lighter duty tracks, every 2-3 months is sufficient.

My cans are falling off around curves – what should I check?

This often indicates that the curve section needs realignment. Make sure the curve wheels/pulleys are perpendicular and parallel to the frame. Adjust the side guides to form an even curve.

What’s the easiest way to check if my track is aligned?

Simply placing a carpenter’s level tool horizontally across the side guides is the quickest way to see if they are parallel and aligned.

One side seems to wear faster – what does that mean?

Uneven side guide wear usually indicates that those guides are not perfectly perpendicular to the frame. Adjust them slowly to square them up evenly.

Do I need special tools to realign a canister track?

Alignment rods are very handy, but you can realign using just basic tools like levels, wrenches, and screwdrivers in most cases. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Keeping your canister track in proper alignment is very important for smooth operation. With some care and regular maintenance, you can catch issues before they turn into major problems. Just take it slow and check alignment frequently. Keeping cans running smoothly is worth the effort!

Meghan Drummond
Meghan Drummond

Meghan has owned trucks for over 20 years and installed her first tonneau cover back in 2005. She has tested over 50 different tonneau cover models hands-on. Meghan has a journalism degree from the University of Florida and previously worked as an auto writer.

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