Suspension; Wheel Alignment - Dodge 2001 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual

BR/BE

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
FRONT - 2WD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
PRE-ALIGNMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
STANDARD PROCEDURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION
Wheel alignment is the positioning of the wheels in
relation to the vehicle. This is accomplished through
suspension and steering linkage adjustments. An
alignment is essential for efficient steering, good
directional stability and to minimize tire wear. The
most important measurements of an alignment are
caster, camber and toe position (Fig. 1) and (Fig. 2).
CAUTION: Do not attempt to modify any suspen-
sion or steering components by heating and bend-
ing.
NOTE: Periodic lubrication of the front suspension/
steering system components may be required. Rub-
ber bushings must never be lubricated. Refer to
Lubrication And Maintenance for the recommended
maintenance schedule.

SUSPENSION

TABLE OF CONTENTS
page
FRONT - 4WD
REAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1 - FRONT OF VEHICLE
2 - STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
3 - PIVOT POINT
4 - TOE-IN
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
ALIGNMENT INDEPENDENT FRONT
SUSPENSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
CASTER CORRECTION MEASUREMENT . . . . . 3
ALIGNMENT LINK/COIL SUSPENSION. . . . . . . . 5
Fig. 1 Alignment Angles - Independent Front
Suspension
SUSPENSION 2 - 1
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