Road Test Vehicle
Road test vehicle. This gives clues to the condition of components in steering
and suspension systems.
Tires
Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation pressure.
| • | Both tires on axle have about the same wear. |
| • | The wear pattern across the tire |
| | This is very helpful in diagnosing alignment and steering/suspension problems. |
Front Suspension
Inspect the steering/suspension systems. Alignment angles cannot be set accurately
if steering or suspension systems are worn or damaged.
| • | Inspect the suspension/steering components for wear or damage. |
| • | Inspect to see if the frame is bent. |
| • | Inspect the front stabilizer bar bushings for wear or damage. |
| • | Inspect the lower control arms for worn ball studs, worn bushings, or
bent arms. |
| • | Inspect the steering gear for wear or damage. |
| • | Inspect the inner and outer tie rod ends for wear or damage. |
| • | Inspect the wheel bearing for looseness. |
| • | Inspect the bumper height. Height must be within specifications before
setting alignment. |
| • | Inspect the strut assemblies for oil leaks, looseness, wear, binding or
dents. |
Rear Suspension
| • | Inspect the components for wear/damage. |
| • | Inspect the rear axle control arm. |
| • | Check rear suspension support. |
| • | Inspect the bumper height. Height must be correct before setting alignment.
If not, are carrier assemblies leaking, worn, binding, or bent? |
| • | Inspect the rear stabilizer bar. |
| • | Are the bushings worn or missing? |
