CAMBER
- Camber is the tilting of the wheel, outward at either top or bottom, as viewed from front of vehicle. (Scheme 4)
- When wheels tilts outward at the top (from centerline of vehicle), camber is positive. When wheels tilt inward at top, camber is negative. Amount of tilt is measured in degrees from vertical.
Determining Camber Angle. Scheme 4
Scheme 4: Determining Camber Angle
CASTER
- Caster is tilting of front steering axis either forward or backward from vertical, as viewed from side of vehicle. (Scheme 5)
- When axis is tilted backward from vertical, caster is positive. This creates a trailing action on front wheels. When axis is tilted forward, caster is negative, causing a leading action on front wheels.
Determining Caster Angle. Scheme 5
Scheme 5: Determining Caster Angle
TOE-OUT ON TURNS
- Toe-out on turns (turning radius) is a check for bent or damaged parts, and not a service adjustment. With caster, camber, and toe-in properly adjusted, check toe-out with weight of vehicle on wheels.
- Use a full floating turntable under each wheel, repeating test with each wheel positioned for right and left turns. Incorrect toe-out generally indicates a bent steering arm. Replace arm, if necessary, and recheck wheel alignment.
STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
- Steering axis inclination is a check for bent or damaged parts, and not a service adjustment. Vehicle must be level and camber should be properly adjusted. (Scheme 6)
- If camber cannot be brought within limits and steering axis inclination is correct, steering knuckle is bent. If camber and steering axis inclination are both incorrect by approximately the same amount, the upper and lower control arms are bent.
Checking Steering Axis Inclination. Scheme 6
Scheme 6: Checking Steering Axis Inclination
