- Alignment rack
- Alignment machine
- Camber/caster gauge
- Toe-in gauge
- Steering wheel holder
- Jack and jack stands
- Pry bar
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Allen wrench set
Step 1: Prepare the vehicle.
1. Park the vehicle on the alignment rack and engage the parking brake.
2. Turn the steering wheel to the center position.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels but do not remove them.
4. Raise the front of the vehicle with the jack and place the jack stands under the frame.
Step 2: Measure the current alignment.
1. Attach the camber/caster gauge to the front wheels.
2. Measure the camber and caster angles on both wheels.
3. Record the measurements.
Step 3: Adjust the alignment.
1. If the camber or caster angles are out of specification, loosen the bolts that hold the strut to the steering knuckle.
2. Use the pry bar to move the strut until the desired camber and caster angles are achieved.
3. Tighten the bolts.
Step 4: Measure the toe-in.
1. Attach the toe-in gauge to the front wheels.
2. Measure the toe-in between the front wheels.
3. Record the measurement.
Step 5: Adjust the toe-in.
1. If the toe-in is out of specification, turn the tie rod sleeves until the desired toe-in is achieved.
2. Tighten the tie rod sleeves.
Step 6: Road test the vehicle.
1. Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
2. Take the vehicle for a road test to verify that the alignment is correct.
Here are some additional tips for performing a front-end alignment:
- Make sure that the vehicle is properly prepared before measuring alignment. This includes ensuring that the tires are properly inflated and that the springs and shocks are in good condition.
- Use the alignment machine to check and adjust the front end ride height.
- Refer to the vehicle repair manual for the correct alignment specifications.
- If you are not experienced in performing alignments, it is best to have the work done by a qualified technician.
