Workshop Manuals Factory service & repair Alfa Romeo
01 Introduction and contents02 Technical data and maintenance03 Engine04 Clutch05 Gearbox06 Front axle and drive shafts07 Brakes08 Steering09 Suspension and wheels10 Heating and ventilation11 Bodywork12 Timing belt data sheets
Alfa Romeo 145/146 Factory Service Manual (1994-1999)09 · Suspension and wheels
09 · Steering & suspension

Checking characteristic angles

Make
Alfa Romeo
Model
145/146 Factory Service Manual
Year
1994–1999
Section
Alignment › Checking characteristic angles
Suspension and wheelsChecking characteristic angles
  1. Position the reference tool on the resting plane of the vehicle.
  2. Using a surface gauge measure the distance "C" between the vehicle's resting plane and the pivot of the rear swinging arm.
    - Using a millimeter rule measure the distance.
  3. Using a surface gauge measure distance "B" between the resting plane of the vehicle and the centre of the rear wheel.
    - Using a millimeter rule measure the distance.
Diagram showing measurement points C and D on vehicle suspension
  • Calculate the difference between "C" and "D" and check that it is within the specified limits.
Rear alignment C - D
7 ± 5 mm (*)
-2 ± 5 mm

(*) Specific for Boxer versions.

NOTE: If the alignment values are not within the specified limits replace both suspension springs.

Checking characteristic angles

Preliminary operations

  • Inflate the tyres to the correct pressure.
  • Check that the eccentricity and orthogonality of the wheel rims do not exceed:
    • 1 mm for steel rims
    • 0.3 mm for alloy rims

Checking front wheel toe-in and toe-out

  • Using a suitable tool check that the toe-in and toe-out values are within the specified limits.
Front wheel toe-in/toe-out A - B (*)
Boxer 3.5 ± 1 mm
Turbodiesel
1.4 T. Spark 16V
1.6 T. Spark 16V
-1 ± 1 mm
1.8 T. Spark 16V
2.0 T. Spark 16V
0 ± 1 mm

(*) Values measured unladen in running order (with specified fluids)

Diagram showing front wheel toe-in adjustment

If the toe-in values differ from those specified, proceed as follows:

  1. Loosen the attachments for the adjustment of the steering rods.
  2. WARNING: Each time the front wheel toe-in is checked the bellows should also be checked to ensure that they rotate freely on the rod. If necessary pull them off and lubricate them with the specified grease.

  3. Rotate the rods until the specified value is reached without altering the position of the steering wheel.

    NOTE: This adjustment must be carried out by operating on the rods of both wheels.


    - Tighten the steering rod adjustment attachments to the specified torque.

Specific for Boxer versions

Diagram showing steering rod adjustment with torque specification

15 ÷ 19 Nm
1.6 ÷ 1.9 kgm

Parts & tools for this job For 1994 Alfa Romeo 145/146

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