Rear Wheel Alignment

If an alignment machine or rear tire wear indicates that the axle housing may be misaligned, bent, or rear springs mix-located, the alignment can be checked as follows.
1. Check the vehicle alignment on an alignment machine.
2. Compensate for rear wheel runout the same as checking front wheel toe-in.
3. Check camber reading which should be 0.03 degrees negative to 0.05 degrees positive.
4. Check the amount of toe-out which should be 0 degree to 0.05 degree or 0 to 1.58 mm (0 to 1/16 inch).
- If it is necessary to back the vehicle onto an alignment machine to measure the alignment, the actual toe-out will be read on the scale as toe-in. If toe-out is checked with a tram gage, disregard this step.

NOTE: If a tram is used for checking toe-out, still perform Steps 1 and 2 to check camber.

The rear wheels cannot be aligned by conventional means. The axle housing and springs, if bent or damaged, must be replaced. The frame under most circumstances could be straightened. The necessary straightening operations may be performed using frame straightening equipment or by relocating the spring to the axle without removing the axle housing from the vehicle. This procedure will allow checks during the straightening operation to determine when the axle-spring assembly is within the correct limits.

If it is found that the frame and springs are within specification, the rear axle assembly itself is at fault and it must be replaced.

NOTE: Under no circumstances should the axle housing be straightened to correct an alignment problem. If it is determined the axle assembly is at fault, it must be replaced.