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front wheel alignment...

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Nunyas

Nunyas

Yoda
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I'm just curious how those of you that do it yourself make the measurements. I've always assumed that you measure the distance between the fronts and backs of the wheels level with the axle. However, it appears to be impossible to measure that distance on the back of the front wheels, because the body/chassis is in the way.

So, how do you guys do it anyways?
 
JC Whitney carries a simple one which is an adjustable rod with two chains hanging. The advantage is that you can measure at the rim, eliminating tire wobble.
 
'tis best if you can use the rim. I got a set of Dunlop Alignment gauges years ago. Need a level piece of concrete to use the things, but that ain't hard to find in Florida. /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/wink.gif
 
it can be a bit of a challenge out here though (unless you have a garage that was built properly). Heck, even "smooth freshly paved" roads have issues with big dips and lumps around here.
 
Aloha Rob,

An older gent in my car club showed me a very simple method that used very low tech items. He has been repairing and driving "T" series MGs for about fifty years.

You need one or two pieces (two is better) of heavy string about the length of you car. Attach one end of the string behind the rear wheel. I use a hook made of some scrap wire to hook to the leaf spring. Pull the string forward to the front of the car past the front wheel and tie it or secure it with another hook to a bumper bracket with the string taut. Adjust the height of the string parallel to the ground so it rests at about the same place on both tires (I find it needs to be above the bottom of the wheel but make sure spokes and hubs don't interfere). Sight down the string and adjust the front wheel with the steering wheel until the string is straight. Repeat the process on the other side, but this time adjust the tie rods as necessary get the string straight. It has worked pretty well for me over the last eight to ten years.

I've been told slight toe in is better than any toe out if you can't get it perfectly straight.
 
If you want to get really simple, all you need is two thumb tacks and a piece of string. Even if the tires and / or wheels are way out of true, it will still be accurate.
 
Hook em to a couple of jack stands in the front. In fact four jack stands is perfect.
 
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