Suspension System: Adjustments Dodge Nitro I

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

Scheme 19

Wheel alignment involves the correct positioning of the wheels in relation to the vehicle. The positioning is accomplished through suspension and steering linkage adjustments. An alignment is considered essential for efficient steering, good directional stability and to minimize tire wear. The most important measurements of an alignment are caster, camber and toe.

Note. Periodic lubrication of the front suspension/steering system components may be required. Rubber bushings must never be lubricated. Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE for the recommended maintenance schedule.

1. CASTER is the forward or rearward tilt of the steering knuckle from vertical. Tilting the top of the knuckle forward provides negative caster. Tilting the top of the knuckle rearward provides positive caster. Positive caster promotes directional stability. This angle enables the front wheels to return to a straight ahead position after turns.
2. CAMBER is the inward or outward tilt of the wheel relative to the center of the vehicle. Tilting the top of the wheel inward provides negative camber. Tilting the top of the wheel outward provides positive camber. Incorrect camber will cause wear on the inside or outside edge of the tire.
3. TOE is the difference between the leading inside edges and trailing inside edges of the front tires. Wheel toe position out of specification cause's unstable steering, uneven tire wear and steering wheel off- center. The wheel toe position is the final front wheel alignment adjustment.
4. THRUST ANGLE is the angle of the rear axle relative to the centerline of the vehicle. Incorrect thrust angle can cause off-center steering and excessive tire wear. This angle is not adjustable, damaged component(s) must be replaced to correct the thrust angle.

Scheme 20

Camber and caster angle adjustments involve changing the position of the lower control arm cam bolts (3).

COMPLETE WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Camber and caster angle adjustments involve changing the position of the lower suspension arm cam bolts (3).

TOE ADJUSTMENT

The wheel toe position adjustment is the final adjustment.

1. Start the engine and turn wheels both ways before straightening the wheels. Secure the steering wheel with the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Loosen the tie rod jam nuts (1). NOTE: Each front wheel should be adjusted for one-half of the total toe position specification. This will ensure the steering wheel will be centered when the wheels are positioned straight-ahead.
4. Adjust the wheel toe position by turning the tie rod as necessary. see scheme 7
5. Tighten the tie rod jam nut (1) to 75 N.m (55 ft. lbs.).
6. Verify the specifications.

ALIGNMENT

Note. Specifications are in degrees.