Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Preliminary Checks

NOTE: Before making any adjustments affecting caster, camber or toe-in, the following front end inspection should be made.

INSPECT
1. Tires for proper inflation pressure.
2. Front wheel bearings for proper adjustment. Refer to Transmission and Drivetrain.
3. Ball joints, tie rod ends and relay rods. If excessive looseness is noted, correct before adjusting.
4. Wheel and tires for run-out.
5. Trim height. If not within specifications, the correction must be made before adjusting caster.
6. Steering gear for looseness at the frame.
7. Shock absorbers for leaks or any noticeable noise.
8. Control arms or stabilizer bar attachment for looseness.
9. Alignment equipment. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
10. Level of the vehicle. The vehicle must be on a level surface.

Check wheel alignment if the following conditions are noted:
- Left and right front tire wear is unequal.
- Wear is uneven across the tread of any front tire.
- Front tire treads have a scuffed appearance with "feather" edges on one side of the tread ribs or blocks.