Proper car alignment is crucial for vehicle handling, tire longevity, and overall driving safety. Many drivers and even some mechanics overlook the nuances of a correct alignment, which can lead to a host of problems down the road. Let’s delve into some key aspects of car alignment, drawing upon expert insights and considering how quality components, like those from Moog, play a vital role. While this article provides information on alignment best practices, for those considering component replacements or upgrades, it’s wise to also consider Moog Car Parts Reviews to ensure you’re choosing reliable and effective parts for your vehicle’s suspension and alignment needs.
One common misconception is that sway bars are always necessary. For off-road trucks designed for maximum articulation, this isn’t the case. Sway bars can actually hinder off-road performance by limiting independent suspension movement. In off-road scenarios, articulation is key, allowing each wheel to maintain contact with uneven terrain. Removing the sway bar allows for greater wheel travel and a smoother ride in challenging conditions. However, on-road handling will be affected, which is a trade-off to consider.
Speaking of handling, a fundamental aspect of any alignment is ensuring the steering wheel is straight after the adjustment. A crooked steering wheel post-alignment is a clear indicator of substandard work. Any reputable alignment shop should prioritize this. Straightening the steering wheel is not an optional step; it’s integral to the alignment process itself. A shop that neglects this basic step should raise serious concerns about their overall competence.
Camber, the angle of the wheel relative to the vertical when viewed from the front of the vehicle, is another critical setting. While some factory specifications might suggest a degree of positive camber, aiming for zero camber is often preferable, especially for performance and tire wear. Positive camber, where the top of the tire tilts outward, can lead to uneven tire wear on the outside edge and reduces the contact patch of the tire with the road surface, diminishing grip.
It’s important to understand that factory alignment specifications are often a compromise. “Green” zones on alignment machines are typically broad guidelines intended for stock vehicles and prioritize ease of driving for the average person, not necessarily optimal performance or tire life. The center of the green range is generally the target for ideal factory settings, but these settings are not always optimized for every driver or driving style.
Things become more complex when suspension modifications are introduced. Lifting a vehicle, for example, can significantly alter camber angles and push alignment settings outside of factory specifications and adjustment ranges. This is where the expertise of a skilled alignment technician becomes crucial. They need to understand how modifications affect suspension geometry and know how to achieve the best possible alignment within the new parameters, or recommend parts that allow for proper alignment.
Toe, the angle at which the tires point inward or outward when viewed from above, also plays a significant role in handling and tire wear. Zero toe, where the wheels are perfectly parallel, can enhance turn-in and is often favored for track use due to its responsiveness and reduced tire wear in cornering. However, it may require more driver input to maintain straight-line stability on the road.
Some manufacturers specify a slight toe-in (tires pointing slightly inward) for straight-line stability and to promote steering wheel centering. This toe-in provides stability at higher speeds but can make the car feel less eager to turn and may contribute to increased tire wear. This is a common approach for mass-market vehicles where stability and ease of driving are prioritized over ultimate handling sharpness.
Furthermore, suspension geometry can be designed to induce toe changes during acceleration squat or braking dive. This dynamic toe adjustment can be used to enhance straight-line stability under these conditions, as seen in some stock vehicles. The goal is often to prioritize predictable understeer and straight-line braking for safety and ease of control for the average driver, rather than maximizing cornering performance.
For vehicles with lifted suspensions, aftermarket upper control arms (UCAs) can be beneficial in achieving better alignment numbers. These UCAs are often designed to provide increased adjustment range, particularly for camber and caster, allowing for proper alignment even with significant suspension lift. When considering such upgrades, researching Moog car parts reviews can be valuable, as Moog is known for producing quality aftermarket suspension components, including UCAs, ball joints, and tie rod ends that are relevant to alignment.
When it comes to alignment, choosing the right shop is paramount. A dedicated alignment specialist or a shop that specializes in suspension work is generally a better choice than a generic chain shop. Chain shops may lack the specialized equipment or, more importantly, the expertise needed to handle complex alignments, especially on modified vehicles. For quality work, a specialist is typically the way to go, unless you possess the tools and knowledge to perform a DIY alignment.
Always ensure the alignment technician verifies the readings after making adjustments. Alignment machines often require a caster sweep or similar procedure to refresh the readings and display the current alignment angles accurately. A technician might make an adjustment, print the report, and hand it over without actually confirming the final readings after the adjustment, leading to inaccurate results.
Ultimately, a successful alignment is evident in the road test. If the steering wheel is crooked after an alignment, the job is not done correctly, period. There’s no room for speculation or excuses. A competent alignment technician will not release a vehicle until the alignment is correct, and the steering wheel is straight. If issues arise during the road test, the vehicle should be brought back to the rack for further adjustments until it’s right. Paying for an alignment means paying for a complete and correctly executed service, and anything less is unacceptable. When considering parts for your alignment or suspension work, always look into Moog car parts reviews to ensure you are investing in components known for their quality and durability, contributing to a proper and lasting alignment.
