Preliminary Alignment Inspection

Inspect Tires

Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation pressure. Inspect:

1. That both tires on the axle have about the same wear.
2. The wear pattern across the tire. This is very helpful in diagnosing alignment and steering/suspension problems.

Road Test Vehicle

Road test the vehicle. This gives clues to the condition of components in steering and suspension systems.

Inspect Front Suspension

Inspect the steering/suspension systems. Alignment angles cannot be set accurately if the steering or suspension systems are worn or damaged.

1. Inspect the suspension/steering components for wear or damage.
2. Inspect if frame is bent.
3. Inspect the front stabilizer shaft bushings for wear or damage.
4. Inspect the lower control arms for worn ball studs, worn bushings, or bent arms.
5. Inspect the steering gear for wear or damage.
6. Inspect the inner and outer tie rod ends for wear or damage.
7. Inspect for loose wheel bearings.
8. Inspect the trim height. Height must be within specifications before setting the alignment.
9. Inspect the strut assemblies for oil leaks, looseness, wear, binding, or dents.

Inspect Rear Suspension

1. Inspect the components for wear/damage.
2. Inspect if the cross support is bent.
3. Inspect the trailing arm.
• Are the bushings worn?
• Are the arms bent?
4. Inspect the lateral links.
• Are the bushings worn?
• Are the links bent?
5. Inspect the trim height. Height must be correct before setting the alignment. If not, are the strut assemblies leaking, worn, binding, or bent?
6. Inspect the rear stabilizer shaft on vehicles so equipped.
• Are the bushings worn or missing?
• Is the shaft bent?