Alignment Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Suzuki Verona. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

An accurate method of determining the alignment of the underbody uses a measuring tram gauge. The tram gauge set used to perform the recommended measuring checks must include a vertical pointer able to reach 457 mm (18 in.).

2 types of measurements can be made with a tram gauge: direct point-to-point measurements and measurements calculated on a horizontal plane (datum line) parallel to the underbody. Point-to-point measurements are generally taken on steering and suspension engine compartment parts and simply require the vertical pointers to be set equally.

For horizontal plane measurements, the vertical pointers must be set as specified for each point to be measured.

Dimensions-to-gauge holes are measured to the center of the holes and flush to the adjacent surface metal unless otherwise specified. It is recommended that the diagonal dimensions to the cross-body be checked on both sides in order to verify the dimensional accuracy of the vehicle underbody.