1988 D250 3/4 Ton Pickup 2WD V8-318 52L VIN Y Steering & Suspension Alignment Specs
Alignment: Service and Repair
Wheel Alignment Overview
Front wheel alignment is the proper adjustment of all the interrelated suspension angles affecting the running and steering of the front wheels of the
vehicle. The importance of wheel alignment and wheel balancing is considered essential in order to maintain ease of steering, good directional stability
and to prevent abnormal tire wear.
Under every day driving conditions the front wheel alignment angles change and therefore it becomes necessary that every vehicle should have an
alignment check at least once a year. Such an inspection of the front suspension and steering components is a preventative maintenance service and
also has a definite bearing on the safe operation of the vehicle.
The method of checking front wheel alignment will vary depending on the type of equipment being used. The instructions furnished by the
manufacturer of the equipment should always be followed, with the exception that the specifications as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
should always be used.
Fig. 1 Wheel Alignment Measurements
There are five basic factors (measurements) which are the foundation to front wheel alignment; caster, camber, toe-in, steering axis inclination and
toe-out on turns.
All are mechanically adjustable except steering axis inclination and toe-out on turns. These two are valuable in determining if the parts are bent or
damaged particularly when the camber and caster adjustments cannot be brought within the recommended specifications.
CAUTION: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MODIFY ANY SUSPENSION OR STEERING COMPONENTS BY HEATING OR BENDING.
All adjustments/modifications should be made in the following sequence:
a. Caster and Camber.
b. Toe-in.
c. Steering Axis Inclination. (Not Adjustable, replacement only)
d. Toe-out on Turns. (Not Adjustable, replacement only)
