Preliminary Inspection

Steering and vibration complaints are not always the result of improper alignment. Another possibility is tire "lead" due to worn or improperly manufactured tires. "Lead" is the vehicle deviation from a straight path on a level road without pressure on the steering wheel. Before making any adjustment affecting tire and wheel alignment, make the following inspections to ensure correct alignment readings and alignment adjustments.

Inspect:
^ All tires for proper inflation pressures. Also check that all tires have about the same tread wear.
^ Control arm ball studs. If they are loose, correct them before adjusting tire and wheel alignment.
^ Tie rod ends. If they are loose, correct them before adjusting tire and wheel alignment.
^ Tires and wheels for runout.
^ Vehicle trim height. If out of limits and a correction is to be made, do so before adjusting alignment.
^ Steering gear for looseness at frame.
^ Control arms for loose bushings.
^ Stabilizer shaft for loose or missing parts.
^ Shock absorber and springs for improper operation.
^ Suspension and steering components for damage. Replace parts as necessary.
^ Vehicle for stability. The fuel tank should be full, or the vehicle should have compensating ballast.
^ Jounce vehicle lightly three times in the rear and three times in the front.

Consideration must be given to excess loads, such as tool boxes, sample cases, etc. If these items are normally carried in the vehicle, they should remain in the vehicle during alignment adjustments. Consideration should also be given to the condition of the equipment being used to adjust alignment. Be sure to follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions. Regardless of the equipment used to adjust alignment, the vehicle must be on a level surface, both front to rear and side to side.