Dodge ram truck 3500 1996 Service Manual page 44

2 - 2 SUSPENSION B R
D E S C R I P T I O N A N D O P E R A T I O N {Continued)
• STEERING AXIS INCLINATION ANGLE is
measured in degrees. I t is the angle that the steering
knuckles are tilted (Fig. 1). The inclination angle has
a fixed relationship with the camber angle. I t will not
change except when a spindle or bail 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 components by heating and bending,
S E R V I C E P R O C E D U R E S
PRE-AUGNMENT INSPECTION
Before starting wheel alignment, the following
inspection and necessary corrections must be com­
pleted. Refer to Suspension and Steering System
Diagnosis Chart for additional information.
(1) Tires with the same recommended air pressure,
size, and tread wear. Refer to Group 22, Wheels and
Tires for diagnosis information.
(2) Inspect front wheel bearings for wear or adjust­
ment.
(3) Inspect front wheels for excessive radial, lat­
eral runout and unbalance. Refer to Group 22,
Wheels and Tires for diagnosis information.
POSITIVE NEGATIVE POSITIVE NEGATIVE
STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
J9402-56
Fig. 1 Aiignment Angles IFS
(4) Inspect ball studs, linkage pivot points and
steering gear for looseness, roughness, binding or a
sticking condition. Refer to Group 19, Steering for
additional information.
(5) Inspect suspension components for wear and
noise. Check components for correct torque.
CAMBER
TRUE
VERTICAL
WHEEL
CENTERLINE
NEGATIVE
CAMBER
ANGLE
PIVOT
CENTERLINE
SCRUB
- RADIUS
POSITIVE CAMBER (NOT SHOWN)
TOP OF WHEEL OUTBOARD
CASTER
POSITIVE CASTER- *i
KING PIN
h
V
OF VEHICLE f
VERTICAL
FRONT OF VEHICLE
— B —
NEGATIVE TOE (TOE OUT) B > A
POSITIVE TOE (TOE IN) B < A
THRUST ANGLE
RE
( + ) AXLE POINTS LEFT
ANGLE OF REAR AXLE
RELATIVE TO VEHICLE CENTERLINE IE
(-) AXLE POINTS RIGHT
J9402-57
Fig. 2 Alignment Angles Link/Coil