Definitions
1. The suspension and steering installation is characterized by four geometric parameters. All angles are in degrees (wheel alignment can also be expressed as a linear dimension). The pivot axis is an imaginary line passing through the suspension strut and, if necessary, extended until it intersects with the vehicle support surface.
2. Camber - the angle between the line passing through the center of the wheel and its contact patch with the ground, and the vertical, when viewed from the front or rear of the wheel. "Negative camber" means that the tops of the wheels are tilted inward from the vertical, with "positive collapse" - the top points of the wheels are tilted outward from the vertical.
3. The camber angle of the front wheels is not adjustable and its value is given for reference. The rear camber angle is adjustable and can be measured using a special indicator.
4. Longitudinal inclination of the kingpin - the angle between the axis of rotation and the vertical passing through the center of the wheel and its contact patch with the ground, when viewed from the side of the car. At "positive caster" the axis of rotation is inclined so that it intersects with the ground in front of the wheel, and when "negative caster" the steering axis intersects with the ground behind the wheel.
5. The angle of the longitudinal inclination of the king pin of the front wheels is not adjustable. This angle can be measured with an indicator. If the angle value differs greatly from that given in the Technical Data, it is necessary to contact a service station, since this can only be caused by heavy wear or damage to the suspension elements.
6. Toe-in is defined as the deviation of the wheel plane from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, when viewed from above the vehicle. With a positive convergence of the front wheels, turn inward - towards each other. With negative toe, the front wheels are turned outward - away from each other.
7. Toe-in of the front wheels is adjusted by screwing (or unscrewing) right tie rod end.
8. The convergence of the rear wheels is also adjustable. Adjustment is achieved by loosening the bolts securing the trailing arm bracket and moving the trailing arm.
Control and regulation
Setting the convergence of the front wheels
9. To control the convergence, you must have a special device, so the easiest way is to contact a service station. However, most auto parts stores can purchase this tool.
10. To check the convergence, you first need to purchase a suitable tool. There are two types of such devices. The device of the first type is designed to measure the distance between the extreme points located on the inner surface of the wheel in its front and rear parts (for a stationary vehicle as described above). The device of the second type is designed to control the actual position of the wheel contact surface in relation to the road surface (for a moving vehicle). This is done in the following way. A moving tire carries along a plate lying on the ground. The movement of the plate is recorded on a scale. Both types of devices have their advantages and disadvantages, but when used correctly, each of them gives reliable results.
11. When performing measurements, the steering wheel must be in a position corresponding to straight-line movement.
12. Apply the parking brake to make the adjustment, then raise the front of the vehicle and support it on jack stands (cm."Lifting and placing the car on supports").
13. First of all, clean the threaded sections at the ends of the tie rods. If they are rusty, pickle them with a special compound. Loosen the outer collars of the covers, wrap the covers and lay fresh grease in them. Now the covers will not twist or stretch when the steering rods are rotated.
14. While holding the tie rod with a wrench, loosen the tie rod end lock nut. Rotate the tie rod to change its length. Shortening the tie rod (screwing into the tip) reduces positive wheel alignment.
15. After completing the adjustment, while holding the rod, tighten the locknut to the required torque. If, after adjusting the steering wheel spokes, they are not level while the wheels are in the straight-ahead position, remove the steering wheel and reinstall it (see paragraph 17).
16. After lowering the vehicle to the ground, repeat the toe-in test and, if necessary, re-adjust. Make sure that the covers are not twisted or stretched. Install new boot clamps if necessary (see paragraph 24).
Installation of a convergence of back wheels
Note. Before starting the toe-in test, measure the camber angle.
17. The procedure for checking wheel alignment is similar to checking for the front wheels (see point 10).
18. If adjustment is necessary, loosen the trailing arm bracket mounting bolts and move the bracket in the desired direction. After completing the adjustment, tighten the bracket mounting bolts to the required torque.
Setting the rear camber angle
19. Checking and adjusting the camber angle of the rear wheels should be carried out at a specialized service station. However, you can purchase suitable equipment from many auto parts stores. For reference, we inform you that the camber adjustment is carried out by loosening the bolts securing the lower arms to the trailing arms and rotating the eccentric washers. After completing the adjustment, tighten the bolts to the required torque.