DIY Wheel Alignment

[metroplex]

I've looked at several articles on how to perform a DIY wheel alignment.

I am going to order some tools: hub mounted caster/camber gauge (not all wheels are steel), toe in gauge, and a laser level to make a flat surface in my garage.

How feasible is it to perform a DIY wheel alignment? Some of my co-workers have done it before and one time at a work site out in the field, a guy offered to perform a wheel alignment on my car. I went

and declined his offer but this got me wondering what is exactly involved.

I've read through some of the theories on wheel alignment (caster, camber, and toe-in/toe-out) but if you can provide some tips/ideas I'd appreciate it.

BTW my vehicle is a 00 Ford Crown Vic. OEM spec calls for minimal camber and toe, 0 camber and 0 toe would be within spec. Caster is about 5.5* positive.

 

[Shannow]

I used to do it, with a home made tramel, and a spirit level (could not do castor).

It's doable.

but I don't do it now.

 

[JHZR2]

I did the toe adjustment once in my parking lot. I cant say that Id trust myself to do a full alignment, even with the best tools, since there are excellent computerized machines out there that make sure that things are exact (assuming theyre calibrated correctly and all).

The biggest issue that I know if is that often there are a few special tools that the manufacturer requires, to keep certain things rigid or connected in a certain way. I usually only trust a delaer to do an alignment.

JMH

 

[Al]

You guys are gluttons for punishment. You'll learn in 10 or 20 years.

 

[metroplex]

I don't have an exotic Import... I just have a bunch of Fords that use traditional front steering systems. We've gone to professional mechanics in the past and I was never really satisfied with the results.

 

[Al]

Well maybe I am just not a fan of alignments. I think alignment are conceptually the same as Jiffy Lube 3000 Mile oil change thinge=waste of money.

I have been driving for 43 years now and can only think of 3 wheel alignments that I have done. Tires wear fine and vehicles track straight.

And don't say I live in a State with good roads-Pa. land of potholes.

 

[TheLoneRanger]

I've done my own wheel alignments for years now. The JC Whitney caster/camber and toe-in gauges have paid for themselves many times over.

Metro, it's a piece of cake to align Fords. First check the caster; it'll probably be OK unless the vehicle has been in an accident. Then go to the camber measurements. Ball joint wear and spring sag affects this one. Then do the toe settings last.

There's a lot of leeway in alignment specs, so it isn't as precise as most people think. You can do a very acceptable job in your own garage, by taking your time and with practice. The laser machines just make it quicker, so shops can do a volume business.....