Re: Front End work and alignment

Posted by PackardV8 On 2014/12/30 14:13:31

.Don't use a chalk line. Use a tape measure. Chalk line is string that can stretch. I have a couple of mini saw horses i use on each side of each wheel to hook the end of the tape measure over. Just a 3' piece of flat bar steel with a couple of 2x4 legs about 5" high.

If steering gear needs adjusting then that should be the FIRST thing corrected because it is the easiest to do. Then test drive. Also check wheel bearing adjustment.

The camber can be cheked with a common carpenters level but requires somekind of accurate cut spacers to keep level out and away from the tire since tires can have irregularities in them. HOWEVER, for a Q&D check just set level up against side of tire.

There is probably a way to chek caster with a carpenters level too but i hav'nt tried it. I haave a rather cheap triangulaar type level for cheking caster and it is easier if u have two such triangular levels , one for each wheel.

According to my 56 manual it indicates 0 * camber so i'm guessing the 54 specs are the same. However i recommend at least 1/2 to maybe 1 full degree of positive camber (leaning out at top).

I set my 56 at about 1* POSITIVE caster (top of king pin setting back) (not negative as spec)). The neg caster(top of king pin leaning forward) will cause alot of hunt and roaad compliance at speeds over 45 or 50 mph. Setting positive caster will cause more low speed effort at the steerring wheel but not likely noticed with power steering. It WILL make the car track streighter and eleminate alot of road compliance.