Inspect Tires
Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation pressure. Inspect:
- That both tires on the axle have about the same wear.
- The wear pattern across the tire. This is very helpful in diagnosing alignment
and steering/suspension problems.
Road Test Vehicle
Road test the vehicle. This gives clues to the condition of components in steering
and suspension systems.
Inspect Front Suspension
Inspect the steering/suspension systems. Alignment angles cannot be set accurately
if the steering or suspension systems are worn or damaged.
- Inspect the suspension/steering components for wear or damage.
- Inspect if frame is bent.
- Inspect the front stabilizer shaft bushings for wear or damage.
- Inspect the lower control arms for worn ball studs, worn bushings, or
bent arms.
- Inspect the steering gear for wear or damage.
- Inspect the inner and outer tie rod ends for wear or damage.
- Inspect for loose wheel bearings.
- Inspect the trim height. Height must be within specifications before setting
the alignment.
- Inspect the strut assemblies for oil leaks, looseness, wear, binding,
or dents.
Inspect Rear Suspension
- Inspect the components for wear/damage.
- Inspect if the cross support is bent.
- Inspect the trailing arm.
- Inspect the lateral links.
- Inspect the trim height. Height must be correct before setting the alignment.
If not, are the strut assemblies leaking, worn, binding, or bent?
- Inspect the rear stabilizer shaft on vehicles so equipped.
• | Are the bushings worn or missing? |