Wheel Alignment Inspection

WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION

1. Inspect the overall condition of the vehicle.
- The vehicle should be properly aligned and adjusted to a ready to drive condition in which it is most frequently used. The chassis alignment inspection is carried out in reference to the vehicle level.
2. Use the measurement sheet for the chassis alignment inspection.
3. Inspect the tire condition.
- Perform a visual inspection for wear pattern, tread depth and any damage to the tires.
4. Inspect the wheel condition
- Perform a visual inspection for any damage to the wheels.
5. Inspect the tire pressure.
- Compare the tire pressure from the door placard to the current tire pressure, correct the tire pressures if necessary.
6. Inspect the underside of the vehicle.
- Inspect for any damage, corrosion of chassis parts and supporting body parts, leaks from any components and pipes.
7. Inspect the wheel bearing play.

NOTE: For the next step the vehicle must be sitting on its wheels.

8. Inspecting the condition of the steering mechanism.
- With the ignition OFF, inspect the steering wheel play. Permissible play around circumference of steering wheel with steering in its center position is a maximum of .984 in. (25 mm).
- Inspect the play of the tie rods and the drag links.
- Inspect the track rod and drag link joints by pulling the tire back and forth with force or move steering wheel from left to right and vice versa approx. 100 mm while having a second technician feel the track rod and drag link joints.


NOTE: The right side of the drag link/tie rod is the pivot joint. This prevents any pivot movement in the drag links. If any play exists replace the tie rod link or the drag link.

- Inspect the seals and condition of the rubber boots. If the rubber boot is not tight replace the tie rod link or replace the drag link.
- Inspect the steering coupling. It must not have any play. If necessary, replace the steering coupling.
- Inspect the steering gear for play. If play exists, adjust the vehicle's steering gear.