Without taking it to a Alignment shop, (I don't think there's a "competent" place to do it in this city). Using a piece of 2x4 cut to rest on the rim outer ring, (15" snowflakes), should the wheel be perfectly " up and down" (using a Level), or should it be "Leaning In" like a 1/8" on top ??? I wish I had the use of an alignment Rack, I've taken 3 of my cars to different places, and always get them back "NOT right" but plenty of excuses. Anyone live in OCALA Fl, and "KNOW" of a Competent place for alignments they can recomend ? I Know where Not to go. Thanks for the help.
I have experimented with the camber on my 86 SE. I have found that 1/8 neg. camber on all four gives great cornering and does not cause any abnormal tire wear. I would say, leave them where they are, that is ideal.
It's been a long time but I remember seeing a video on youtube from somebody who had a very thorough method of doing a complete alignment at home. Takes a lot of patience and time though, but on the other hand you can control the quality of the result instead of having to trust somebody who doesn't really care.
The shops have much fancier equipment, but I suspect the real reason for that equipment is because it saves them money on labor, not because they actually achieve any great level of accuracy with it. Maybe they *could*, but they don't. I believe sweat equity (or better) can apply here, if you have the patience for it.
[This message has been edited by armos (edited 02-19-2014).]
In my very limited experience of doing wheel alignments at home, setting the proper toe in/toe out on all four corners is a whole lot more challenging than doing the camber.
[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 02-19-2014).]
And be aware that changing the camber on a pre 88 make a big difference in the rear toe adjustment. As you go neg. on the camber (top tipped in) the wheel toes in more. Makes the rear really squirrely when the toe is off from 0.
[This message has been edited by Dodgerunner (edited 02-19-2014).]
yea, I found that out ! I've got both front and rear camber slightly neg, but still have to set the "Toe" both front and rear. Maybe I'll take it to the shop, They should probably be Able to "handle" just setting the Toe correctly ! Maybe if I "Stand over them" while they do it . LOL
I don't know a good alignment shop in Ocala but I do know of a very good one in Leesburg Fl. Its called Gibson's tire and alignment. They don't sell tires, all they do are alignments and tire balancing and suspension work. That's where I am taking my Fiero when I put new rear struts in. Its a little drive but well worth it.
Where is Weirsdale Fl. I'm in Tampa. My car follows any irregularity in the road. I was waiting until I got my tie rods in to set alignment. Would love it if you were available to help me. Or am I imposing?
I have no idea what Gibson will charge me for a 4 wheel alignment but it will be worth it to me to have the job done right. Work I have had them do in the past was no more expensive than the chain automotive shops.
