Document ID# 872704
1998 Saturn SL2/SC2/SW2
 

Front Caster Adjustment


    Object Number: 859365  Size: SH
    Click here for detailed picture of above image.

    Important

    The front wheel caster setting is fixed by body structure geometry and the fixed lengths of suspension components. Therefore, front caster should not vary under normal circumstances. If the caster angle is found to be out of specification, check for bent suspension components, bent body structure, worn front stabilizer bar bushings and proper alignment measuring techniques. Only when the above criteria are found to be correct, perform the following procedure:

  1. Lock the steering wheel in the straight ahead position.
  2. Remove and discard the strut assembly to body attachment nuts.
  3. Slide the strut forward or rearward in the body in the direction the desired caster angle change.

    1. Object Number: 861141  Size: SH
      Click here for detailed picture of above image.
    2. Move the top of the strut forward to decrease positive caster.
    3. Important

      Moving the top of the strut 4 mm (0.157 in) will result in approximately 1/2 degree of change in caster angle.

    4. Move the top of the strut rearward to  increase positive caster.

    Notice

    Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

    Important

    The body attachment holes may need to be filed or ground into oval slots to allow enough front/rear strut movement to adjust the caster to specifications. Do not exceed 9 mm (0.354 in) in the width of the slot.

    Important

    If body was filed, paint the exposed metal with primer.

  4. Install the new strut assembly-to-body attachment nuts.
  5. Tighten

    Tighten the front strut assembly-to-body attachment nuts to 29 N·m (21 lb ft).

  6. Inspect the caster angle. Re-adjust if necessary.

  Document ID# 872704
1998 Saturn SL2/SC2/SW2