Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Rear Wheels


The proper alignment of the rear suspension and wheels is essential for proper handling and to providing a reference for front wheel alignment. Always ensure that rear wheel alignment is within specifications prior to checking and adjusting front wheel alignment.

CAMBER

On models with independent rear suspension, rear wheel camber must be within specifications for proper vehicle handling and to prevent uneven tire wear. Rear camber cannot be adjusted. If rear camber is not within specifications, check for damaged or worn suspension components and deformed sheet metal, and repair as needed.



Fig. 1 Measuring Toe-in:





TOE-IN

On models with independent rear suspension, rear toe is the measurement of the rear wheels in relation to the vehicle centerline, Fig. 1. The leading edge of each rear wheel should toe-in slightly toward the vehicle centerline to ensure proper vehicle tracking. Rear toe should be inspected using suitable alignment gauges, following manufacturer's instructions. When checking or adjusting rear toe, always ensure that the amount that the left and right wheels toe-in is as nearly equal as possible.



Fig. 2 Rear toe-in adjustment. 1982-86 Stanza:





Exc. Wagon

On these models, rear toe-in is adjusted by varying the position of the parallel link bracket, Fig. 2.
1. Measure total toe-in and toe-in for each wheel following manufacturer's instructions.
2. Reposition parallel link brackets to obtain specified toe-in.
3. If toe-in is not within specifications and both brackets have been removed, adjust as follows:
a. Set rear wheels on turning radius gauge.
b. Temporarily secure parallel link bracket (on one side) with fixing bolt, Fig. 2.
c. Turn rear wheels left and right, then tighten bracket bolt with wheel at 0 or straight ahead position.
d. Position remaining bracket to obtain specified toe-in, then tighten bracket bolts.
e. Torque bracket bolts to 43-58 ft. lbs., than ensure toe-in is still within specifications.