Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 79

2 - 4 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE
B R
KSSDRFF WKftUL A L I G N M E N T
GENERAL INFORMATION
Front wheel alignment involves the correct posi­
tioning of the wheels in relation to the vehicle. The
positioning is accomplished through suspension and
steering linkage adjustments. An alignment is con­
sidered essential for efficient steering, good direc­
tional stability and to maximize tire wear. The most
important measurements of front end alignment are
caster, camber and toe position.
Routine inspection of the front suspension
and steering components is a good preventative
maintenance practice. Inspection also helps to
ensure safe operation of t h e vehicle.
© CASTER is the forward or rearward tilt of the
steering knuckle from vertical. Tilting the top of the
knuckle rearward provides positive caster. Tilting the
top of the knuckle forward provides negative caster.
Caster is a directional stability angle which enables
the front wheels to return to a straight ahead posi­
tion after turns (Fig. 1,2).
© CAMBER is the inward or outward tilt of the
wheel relative to the center of the vehicle. Tilting the
top of the wheel inward provides negative camber.
Tilting the top of the wheel outward provides positive
camber. Incorrect camber will cause wear on the in­
side or outside edge of the tire (Fig. 1,2).
• WHEEL TOE POSITION is the difference between
the leading inside edges and trailing inside edges of
the front tires (Fig. 1,2). Incorrect wheel toe position
is the most common cause of unstable steering and
uneven tire wear. The wheel toe position is the final
front wheel alignment adjustment.
• STEERING AXIS INCLINATION ANGLE is mea­
sured in degrees. It is the angle that the steering
knuckles are tilted (Fig. 1). The inclination angle has
a fixed relationship with the camber angle. It will not
change except when a spindle or ball stud is dam­
aged or bent. The angle is not adjustable and the
damaged component(s) must be replaced to correct
mis-alignment.
CAUTION:Do not attempt to modify any suspension
or steering component by heating and bending.
POSITIVE NEGATIVE POSITIVE NEGATIVE
STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
J9402-56
Fig. 1 Alignment Angles IFS
PRE-ALIGNMENT HSPECTiOl LINK/COIL
SUSPElSiOl
Before starting a front wheel alignment, the follow­
ing inspection and necessary corrections must be
completed.
(1) Tires with the same recommended air pressure,
size, and tread wear. Refer to Group 22, Wheels and
Tires for diagnosis information.
(2) Front wheel bearings for wear.
(3) Ball studs, steering linkage pivot points and
steering gear for looseness, roughness, binding or
wear. Refer to Group 19, Steering for additional in­
formation.
(4) Front wheels for excessive radial or lateral
runout and unbalance. Refer to Group 22, Wheels
and Tires for diagnosis information.
(5) Suspension components for wear and noise.
Check components for correct torque. Refer to Groups
2 and 3, Suspension and Axle for additional informa­
tion.