Vehicle Checks

Before making wheel alignment adjustments, check or adjust the following:

1. Tire pressure must be inflated to manufacturer's recommended specifications. Tires should be equal in size and type. Runout must not be excessive. Tires and wheels should be in balance.
2. Wheel bearings must be properly adjusted. Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive wear and/or looseness. Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints.
3. Steering gear box must not have excessive play. Check and adjust to manufacturer's specifications.
4. Vehicle must be at correct ride height with full fuel load and spare tire in vehicle. No extra load should be on vehicle. See RIDE HEIGHT .
5. Vehicle must be level with floor and with suspension settled. Jounce front and rear of vehicle several times and allow it to settle to normal ride height.
6. Ensure steering wheel spokes are centered with front wheels in straight-ahead position, correct by shortening one tie rod adjusting sleeve and lengthening opposite sleeve equal amounts.
7. Ensure wheel lug nuts are tightened to proper specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .