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Re: Need an Alignment? Posted by Bill Homer [Email]  (#3427) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Bill Homer) on Sat, 15 Jun 2013 09:22:14
In Reply to: Re: What you are observing is the bushing cap, not the, Vicsaero95, Sat, 15 Jun 2013 07:25:31 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Most likely you will not need an alignment when replacing the bushing caps, but there is always the chance that the new parts are different enough (thicker or thinner) and/or are fit together slightly differently which may put the wheels in a different place, requiring an alignment. Note that the only easily adjustable alignment parameter on a SAAB 9000 is toe-in, so there is not a lot that can change nor much that you can do about it other then adjust the toe via the tie rods.
That said, there is a way to avoid the need for a professional alignment with each new suspension piece you put in. After driving this car for 100,000+ miles, I have a good idea what it should feel like when turning and how it recovers to center after a turn - so I know when something is off. What I usually do is note where the steering wheel is located when going straight on a flat (uncrowned or minimally crowned) road, then do the replacement work on one side of the car; next go for a drive on the same road and note if the steering wheel has changed positions. If it changed, what needs to be done to the tie rod on the side that was just worked on? For example, if I worked on the right side and now the steering wheel is cocked a bit clockwise, I would need to shorten the right side tie rod a bit (tie rods are behind the front wheels on a 9000) to center the wheel - I usually mark the tie rod and tie rod end with a grease pencil and adjust in 1/8 of a turn increments, as a little adjustment will get magnified. Do the same on the other side. Now try out some turns and note the ease of turning and the recovery from the turn. If the car wants to stay on center and is harder to turn, it means there is too much toe. Poor recovery to center from a turn means too little toe.
This may not work for everyone, and requires some time if adjustments need to be made, but I have had success with it. I have also measured the toe with a tape measure and helper and have found that I'm pretty accurate (toe-in spec is 1.0 to 2.0mm) - and the front tires wear evenly. The good news is that if you try this and it doesn't work, then you can take it to a shop for a professional alignment - which it would have needed anyhow.
posted by 108.71.134...
, Sat, 15 Jun 2013 07:16:35, Sat, 15 Jun 2013 09:22:14 <-- Viewing This Message, Sat, 15 Jun 2013 19:37:22
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