Alignment: Service and Repair

1986 Chevrolet Chevette L4-98 1.6LSECTION Service and Repair

Fig. 1 Caster adjustment:





CASTER
Caster angle is adjusted by rearranging washers located at both ends of the upper control arm, Fig. 1. A kit consisting of two washers, one of 3 mm thickness and one of 9 mm thickness, must be used when adjusting caster angle.



Fig. 2 Camber adjustment:





CAMBER
Camber is adjusted by removing the upper ball joint, rotating it 1/2 turn and reinstalling it with flat of upper flange on inboard side of control arm, Fig. 2. This will increase positive camber by approximately 1°.




TOE-IN
To adjust toe-in, loosen tie rod jam nuts at tie rod ends and loosen clamp at rubber bellows. Turn each tie rod to increase or decrease its length until proper toe-in is obtained. Torque jam nut to 50 ft. lbs.




RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.