RAM 3500 Truck 2WD V8-5.7L VIN D (2003)
Alignment: Service and Repair
Wheel Alignment
Alignment Link/Coil Suspension
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ALIGNMENT LINK/COIL SUSPENSION
Before each alignment reading the vehicle should be jounced (rear first, then front). Grasp each bumper at the center and jounce the vehicle up and
down several times. Always release the bumper in the down position. Set the front end alignment to specifications while the vehicle is in its
NORMALLY LOADED CONDITION.
CAMBER: The wheel camber angle is preset and is not adjustable.
CASTER: Check the caster of the front axle for correct angle. Be sure the axle is not bent or twisted. Road test the vehicle and make left and right
turn. Observe the steering wheel return-to-center position. Low caster will cause poor steering wheel returnability.
Fig. 5
Caster can be adjusted by rotating the cams on the lower suspension arm.
TOE POSITION: The wheel toe position adjustment should be the final adjustment.
1. Start the engine and turn wheels both ways before straightening the wheels. Center and Secure the steering wheel and turn off engine.
2. Loosen the adjustment sleeve clamp bolts.
3. Adjust the right wheel toe position with the drag link. Turn the sleeve until the right wheel is at the correct TOE-IN position. Position clamp bolts
to their original position and tighten to specifications. Make sure the toe setting does not change during clamp tightening.
4. Adjust left wheel toe position with tie rod at left knuckle. Turn the sleeve until the left wheel is at the correct TOE-IN position. Position clamp
bolts to their original position and tighten to specifications. Make sure the toe setting does not change during clamp tightening.
5. Verify the right toe setting and a straight steering wheel.
6. Road test the vehicle.
Camber and Caster Adjustment
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CAMBER AND CASTER ADJUSTMENT
NOTE: 4X4 (LD) SUSPENSION HEIGHT MEASUREMENT MUST BE PERFORMED BEFORE AN ALIGNMENT. When the upper control
arm pivot bolts are loosened the upper control arm will normally go inwards toward the frame automatically with the weight of the vehicle.
