Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Preliminary Inspection

1. Road test vehicle noting any abnormal steering or handling characteristics.
2. Ensure tires are the proper type, correctly inflated, properly balanced and same size on each axle.
3. Inspect ball joints, suspension arms, bushings and tie rods, and repair or replace any component that is damaged or excessively worn.
4. Ensure wheel runout is not excessive and bearings are properly adjusted.
5. Check suspension components for wear and correct tightening.
6. Jounce vehicle several times to settle suspension.
7. Place vehicle on suitable alignment rack following manufacturer's instructions. Remove free wheeling hub, and attach alignment gauges to wheel hub.
8. Check and correct alignment angles in the following sequence: vehicle ride height, camber and caster, and toe-in.