<VV> LM alignment

[FrankDuVal]

I'm not a pro, but sort of understand it from my years pulling bodies 
back into alignment.

Something not right? Yes!

First, why did you want +4 on Caster? Special use, not everyday driving? 
Shop manual says 2 +/- 1/2.

Also, shop manual says lengthening the rod increases Caster! Just like 
you thought. Figure 3-5 of the 65 manual.

The Caster can also be adjusted, like an early model, by using unequal 
shims on the upper control arm.

You sure he wasn't looking at data of a Chevelle or other Chevy where 
the strut rods go forward from the lower control arms? Most GMs do that.

Find someone who actually understands alignment, typically the guy with 
a tram gauge and string! Maybe some old Bear or Bean equipment.

Light steering effort good! Steering wheel not returning to center after 
the turn is bad.

Frank DuVal


On 2/3/2017 9:43 PM, James Cuneo via VirtualVairs wrote:
> For you Alignment pros,
>
> After rebuilding front suspension with all new parts  including their hd springs from Clarks, I took it to be aligned today. The technician called me out to show me that the strut rod nuts were bottomed on the threads before the desired caster angle had been achieved. Effectively he had shortened them as far as they would go. I had requested +4 deg. The most he could get was + 1.9 deg. I thought that he was adjusting the rod in the wrong direction but the computer definitely showed increasing caster angle with shortening of the rod. This is contrary to what I understand about caster and the chassis manual as well. Also, at this caster angle he could not get the toe close to correct, the sleeves bottomed on the tie rod ends. So, he backed off the caster until he could get  the toe in close. The final numbers are camber .8 deg. caster .3 deg and toe in .32 total.
>
> Alignment rig is a Hunter brand laser digital.
>
> Car drives straight and does not track on grooves like it did before
>
> Steering effort is lighter than before indicating less caster.
>
> Not sure but, I think somethings not right?
>
> Jim C. 1965 Corsa