Alignment: Service and Repair

Fig. 1 Measuring Ride Height:

Fig. 7 Measuring riding height. 1980---85 F-100---350 & Bronco:

Fig. 8 Measuring Riding Height:

Prior to checking caster and camber, ensure vehicle front ride height is within {1/8} inch side to side 1980-87 E-100-350. On 1980-87 F-100-350 models, the left side ride height should be within 0-{3/8} inch higher than the right side ride height. On 1980-87 F-150-350 (4x4) and Bronco, the front ride heights should be within {3/16} inch side to side. Refer to Figs. 6, 7 and 8. If the vehicle ride heights are not within specifications, redistribute load on loaded vehicles or slightly load empty vehicles on one side. If the ride heights cannot be brought within specifications, verify correct spring installation. The ride height variations stated, are for checking purposes only. The vehicle does not have to operate within these specifications. Check and correct as necessary all tire inflation pressures, then check front tires for the same size, ply rating and load range. Check front wheel bearings and adjust as necessary.
If all the above checks have been made, check wheel alignment with suitable alignment equipment. Using the ride heights obtained earlier, compare caster and camber readings to those listed in the ``Wheel Alignment Specifications Chart''. If the caster and camber angles exceed the specifications, inspect front end for damaged suspension components. Replace as necessary.
Alignment equipment indicates a true reading only when the vehicle's frame is horizontal. Therefore, if the frame is not level (due to tire, spring or load differences), the caster angle reading must be modified to compensate for the frame angles. If the front is higher than the rear, subtract the amount of angle from the reading. If the front is lower than the rear, add the angle. To check frame angle, use a spirit protractor, and take the frame angle measurement on the lower frame flange at the flat area immediately adjacent to the rear spring front hanger.


1980-85 4 X 2 MODELS EXC. 1982-85 F-100-350 W/BALL JOINTS

The camber and caster angles are designed into the front end and are not adjustable.

TOE-IN, ADJUST
Check the steering wheel spoke position when the front wheels are in the straight ahead position. If the spokes are not in the normal position, they can be adjusted while toe-in is being adjusted.
1. Loosen clamp bolts on each tie rod end sleeve.
2. Adjust toe-in. If steering wheel spokes are in their normal position, lengthen or shorten both rods equally to obtain correct toe-in. If spokes are not in normal position, make necessary rod adjustments to obtain correct toe-in and steering wheel spoke alignment.