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Author Topic: DIY alignment  (Read 3282 times)

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Offline snaponbob

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DIY alignment
« on: February 18, 2009, 06:04:58 PM »
This is actually a bit easier than it sounds assuming a) a bit of suspension knowledge, b) a level garage floor with some elbow room, and c) the tools.

First, learn how to "string" your car. The first time is time consuming. After that it's easy. Here is something to study to get you started.   http://au.geocities.com/ozbrick850/wheels-diy-alignment.html   and better yet   http://elantragtclub.tripod.com/elantra/id554.html   At the 2008 Solo Nationals I saw a super simple set up similar to the second link. With 4 jack stands, a tape measure, and a couple lengths of good fishing line and you are set. (I'll set mine up and document it if there is interest.) One of these would make it even easier    http://www.saferacer.com/art-dream-stick-string-toe-gauge.html?productid=1815 .    Now that you have MASTERED toe in/out and have the wheels lined up and the steer wheel straight, time for new challenge -- CAMBER !!!!!!!

If you have watched it done on your car it is less mysterious. You'll need a camber gauge and camber adjuster. Well, here is where it gets SO cheap it almost HURTS. Introducing how I spent about $50-$60 and have a camber measuring setup that is accurate to .1 degree (close to alignment machine, and tech's, tolerances). Don't let the pictures give a false impression, the camera shots were not absolutely straight up and down.
 

I'll take some pictures of my "alignment rack" (eight 12" square smooth floor tires, 4 18" squares of flooring underlayment, and 8 3" thick 8" X 16" concrete blocks) and post them as well.

This "system" is not all it can be as I am working on some implementation "issues" for using the angle gauge while on the "slip plates". BUT, when I put the rear suspension back together after installing poly bushings the gauge and adapter was all I needed to confirm that my "after" was the same as my "before" readings. (Yes, I roled the car back and forth to "settle" the suspension.) I had marked the forward eccentrics of the lower control arms and simply put them back were they were. Worked perfectly. No $75 alignment needed. The same will be done on the front.
« Last Edit: February 18, 2009, 06:12:46 PM by snaponbob »
Bob Buxbaum
snaponbob AT comcast DOT net
2007 Redline, Revalved Konis, Crazy alignment
FE3 front and Z0K rear bars, owner installed pwr lock buttons
catless downpipe, SP custom exhaustWester's tune
racing springs and adjustable perches
DDM ProBeam & Tower brace, CCW 18x11 wheels for racing

Offline Sly Bob

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Re: DIY alignment
« Reply #1 on: February 19, 2009, 06:30:49 PM »
Great post Bob and one that will be of great value to some here. If that's your garage, may I say I love your floor.  :cool:
« Last Edit: February 19, 2009, 10:25:09 PM by Sly Bob »
Just trying to do my part...

Mods: Lose the chicklets, VentureShield, Dual horns, AfterShock spoiler, Weathershield cover, Lil Chromies, Red calipers with black Solstice stickers, Opel GT antenna and Solo GXP-RCD exhaust with a Solo hi-flow cat!

Offline snaponbob

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Re: DIY alignment
« Reply #2 on: February 19, 2009, 06:42:34 PM »
Thanks.
Bob Buxbaum
snaponbob AT comcast DOT net
2007 Redline, Revalved Konis, Crazy alignment
FE3 front and Z0K rear bars, owner installed pwr lock buttons
catless downpipe, SP custom exhaustWester's tune
racing springs and adjustable perches
DDM ProBeam & Tower brace, CCW 18x11 wheels for racing

 

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