Front alignment

[xsbronco]

I have only been around when other people have checked their wheel alignment by measuring their tow in/out. Is this a reasonable way to check or the only way? And does anyone know what the measurements should be. I run 38's new tie rod ends so I know there is no play from wheel to wheel. Thankful for any help.

 

[RTM]

I have only been around when other people have checked their wheel alignment by measuring their tow in/out. Is this a reasonable way to check or the only way? And does anyone know what the measurements should be. I run 38's new tie rod ends so I know there is no play from wheel to wheel. Thankful for any help.

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On a solid D44 axle you can only set the toe for an alignment. To change anything else you have to swap the C-bushings. That's only way I know of changing it.

 

[xsbronco]

I know how to adjust the toe, but do you know to what specs?

 

[STLKIKN]

1/16" to max 1/4" (only because you are running 38's)

normally I would set toe to a max of 3/16"

 

[xsbronco]

Just to make sure, thats a toe in correct? Meaning front of tire 1/16" shorter of rear of tire. Thanks again.

 

[STLKIKN]

Yep, toe IN.

 

[Broncobuster]

It helps to use a string down both sides, tied to stakes, just touching the outsides of the front and rear tires. This makes it a little easier to measure "straight".

 

[RTM]

I agree with the toe specs given and I always drive the truck forward and backwards and recheck the measurement to make sure everything is settled in. I forgot to click the enable button on my last reply.

 

[xsbronco]

I clamped a piece of wood to both tires and checked it that way. My alignment is good. The reason I checked it was because while driving the hiway it tracks very easily. Not dangerously but enough to bother me. I think my ball joints need to be replaced. I found some that are rated for 3000#. I don't think it will be a long fix thats why I have my other post of 2 1/2T rockwells. The ball joints can be the cause of the slop in the steering can't they?

 

[STLKIKN]

yep, they can.

 

[Broncobuster]

Tracking can also be caused by worn out track bar and/or radius arm bushings/brackets. Give them a look, as well as the rest of the steering components.

 

[xsbronco]

I have what I think is too much play in the steering and I think I need to replace the gear box. That and the ball joints is all thats left to replace as far as moving parts for steering.