Wheel Alignment, Checking

Wheel Alignment

General

It is recommended that both the front and rear axles are measured (thrust angle) when carrying out alignment measurements.
If the installation position of the rear axle (which affects the direction of travel of the vehicle) is not taken into account the steering wheel may not be centered.






Steering wheel and steering column are marked.
A - Line on steering wheel
B - Punch mark on steering column
These positions must not be changed!
Steering columns supplied as a replacement parts do not have a center punch mark.

Test requirements

- Vehicle at curb weight
- Fuel tank full
- Spare wheel and vehicle tools are stored at correct locations
- Fluid reservoir for windshield/headlight washer system full
- Equal tread depth for both tires on each axle, with difference between two not more than 2 mm (0.079 inch)
- Tires inflated to correct pressure
- Test equipment must be properly adjusted and attached to vehicle. Observe all instructions, Cautions and Warnings of the test equipment manual
- Vehicle accurately positioned, suspension bounced and rocked several times
- Suspension, steering and steering linkage in proper condition; without excessive play or damage

Note:

- The vehicle alignment should not be checked before the vehicle has completed 1000 - 2000 km (600 - 1200 miles) so that the coil springs can have a chance to settle.

Vehicle transverse inclination "Zero position"






If the measured values exceed the tolerances, the cause may be an incorrect vehicle attitude

- Example:

- vehicles with an automatic transmission can lean to one side slightly.

- This is due to the installation position of the assemblies and their associated weight transfer and is normal.

- If vehicle leans to one side, measure dimension -a- on left and right-hand sides.

- Correct differences if necessary:

- On front axle, compensate by adding weight to top of relevant strut tower.
- On rear axle, compensate by adding weight to relevant side of luggage compartment.
- Sand bags weighting approximately 10 kg (22 lbs) are suitable.

Explanation of the factory codes

- Different suspension versions are available as optional equipment. These are identified by the factory codes.
- The suspension version installed in a vehicle is indicated on the vehicle data label with the relevant factory code.
- The vehicle data label is located:
- In the service booklet.
- Vehicles through 03.00: In spare wheel well.
- Vehicles from 04.00: Next to spare wheel well near left rear wheel housing.

The following table explains the factory codes. This is relevant for the vehicle alignment.






Wheel alignment specifications

Front Axle











Rear Axle