Preliminary Inspection

PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENT INSPECTION
Steering and vibration complaints are not always the result of improper alignment. Another possibility is tire lead. Tire lead is a condition due to worn or improperly manufactured tires. Tire lead is the vehicle deviation from a straight path on a level road without the pressure on the steering wheel. In order to determine if the vehicle has a tire lead problem, refer to VEHICLE LEADS/PULLS in SUSPENSION GENERAL DIAGNOSIS. Testing and Inspection

Before making any adjustment that will affect the tire and wheel alignment, make the following inspections to ensure correct alignment readings and alignment adjustments.

^ Inspect all tires for proper inflation pressures. Also verify that all the tires have nearly even tread wear.
^ Inspect the control arm, ball studs. If the studs are loose, correct them before adjusting the tire and wheel alignment. Refer to BALL STUD CHECK IN FRONT SUSPENSION. Testing and Inspection
^ Check the tire rod ends. If the ends are loose, correct them before adjusting the tire and wheel alignment.
^ Check the tires and wheels for runout.
^ Inspect the vehicle trim height. If the height is out of limits and a correction is to be made, make the correction before adjusting the alignment. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS.
^ Inspect the steering gear for looseness at the frame.
^ Inspect the control arms for loose bushings.
^ Inspect the stabilizer shaft for loose or missing parts.
^ Inspect the shock absorber and springs for improper operation.
^ Inspect the suspension and steering components for damage. Replace parts as necessary.
^ Inspect the vehicle for stability. The fuel tank should be full, or the vehicle should have compensating ballast.
^ Jounce the vehicle lightly three times in the rear and three times in the front.

Give consideration to excess loads such as tool boxes, sample cases, etc. If these items are normally carried in the vehicle, they should remain in the vehicle during alignment adjustments.

Give consideration also to the condition of the equipment being used to adjust the alignment. Verify that you follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions. Regardless of the equipment used to adjust the alignment, the vehicle must be on a level surface, both front to rear and side to side.