WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Vehicle wheel alignment is positioning of all interrelated front and rear suspension angles. These angles affect handling and steering of vehicle when it is in motion. Proper wheel alignment is essential for efficient steering, good directional stability, and proper tire wear.
The method of checking a vehicle's front and rear wheel alignment varies depending on manufacturer and type of equipment used. The equipment manufacturer's instructions should always be followed to ensure accuracy of alignment, except when Daimler Chrysler Corporation's wheel alignment specifications differ. On this vehicle, the following suspension angles can be adjusted
- Front Camber
- Front Caster
- Front Toe
Check wheel alignment and make all wheel alignment adjustments with vehicle standing at its proper height specification. Vehicle height is measured from a certain point on vehicle to ground or a designated area while vehicle is sitting on a flat, level surface. Typical wheel alignment angles and measurements are described in following paragraphs.
Adjustment Procedure
| CAUTION | Always raise vehicle to correct front suspension height. Never lower vehicle to obtain correct front suspension height. If front suspension height is too high, lower vehicle below height specification. Then raise vehicle to correct front suspension height specification. This will ensure vehicle maintains proper front suspension height. |
To adjust front suspension height, turn torsion bar adjustment bolt clockwise to raise vehicle, or counterclockwise to lower vehicle. Jounce front of vehicle several times, then recheck front suspension height.
Scheme 1
STANDARD PROCEDURE - WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Note. Vehicle wheel alignment must be checked and adjusted to preferred specifications with vehicle at correct front suspension height.
- Correctly position vehicle on wheel alignment equipment per equipment manufacturer's recommendations. Perform a pre-wheel alignment inspection standard procedure. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-167530-S11543902902004101500000) under PRE-WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION.
- Measure vehicle suspension height. See appropriate procedure under «RIDE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT»(ref-167530-S18062044822004101500000) . Adjust vehicle suspension height as necessary. Attach wheel alignment equipment following equipment manufacturer's instructions. Check front alignment measurements. If caster and camber are not within specification, adjust as necessary. Always set toe last. For wheel alignment specifications, see «ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-167530-S06619146452004101500000) .