Express 3/4 Ton Van V8-5.7L VIN R (1998)
Alignment: Service and Repair
Ride/Trim Height Measurement and Adjustment
Front Suspension
1. With the vehicle on a flat surface, lift upward on the front bumper 38 mm (1.5 in).
2. Release the front bumper and let the vehicle settle into position.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 two more times, and allow the vehicle to settle.
Z Measurement
4. Measure the Z height (4).
4.1. Using a straight edge, locate the bottom flange of the control arm (inside edge of the lower ball joint) (5) and level to the straight edge
horizontally.
4.2. Using a measuring device, locate the center of the bolt (3) of the lower control arm (2) and measure to the straight edge.
4.3. Record the reading.
5. Push the front bumper downwards to 38 mm (1.5 in).
6. Release the front bumper and let the vehicle settle into position.
7. Repeat steps 4 and 5 two more times, and allow the vehicle to settle.
8. Measure the Z height (4).
8.1. Using a straight edge, locate the bottom flange of the control arm (inside edge of the lower ball joint) (5) and level to the straight edge
horizontally.
8.2. Using a measuring device, locate the center of the bolt (3) of the lower control arm (2) and measure to the straight edge.
8.3. Record the reading.
9. Average the two measurements. This is the true Z height measurement.
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The front suspension trim height should be within 95.0 mm (3.74 in) + 6 mm (0.236 in).
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The measurement should not exceed 13 mm (0.5 in) from side to side.
10. If these measurements are not within specifications, inspect for the following conditions:
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Sagging front coil springs
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Sagging rear suspension.
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Worn front suspension components, such as control arm bushings and steering linkage
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Improper tire inflation.
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Improper weight distribution.
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Collision damage.
Rear Suspension
1. With the vehicle on a flat surface, lift upward on the front bumper 38 mm (1.5 in).
2. Release the front bumper. Let the vehicle settle into position.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 two more times. Allow the vehicle to settle.
