4x4 steering issue - won't return to center

[Stocker]

Originally Posted by BigRed76

Firestone must have a very basic alignment machine, or they just don't know how to use it. Our shop has a hunter alignment machine and I've aligned my trucks on it before with no issues, it shows me toe, camber, and caster easily. I'd recommend finding a shop that is capable of getting camber and caster readings on your truck.

On a straight-axle 4x4? Not doubting you.... I just don't know, other than they are far different from 2WD trucks.

[BigRed76]

Originally Posted by Stocker

On a straight-axle 4x4? Not doubting you.... I just don't know, other than they are far different from 2WD trucks.

Yes sir it does. On my 76 K10 I used to have and my 70 K2500 I have now. Hunter doesn't provide any caster specs, but the machine will still allow you to do a caster sweep and see the measurements. Even on the 2wd trucks they don't provide caster specs because they want you to measure the frame angle.

[maxwoof]

I think with the straight axle 4x4s, you can check the caster and camber, it's just not adjustable so easily. These settings are built in and you would have to bend the axle/knuckle to change them. You should still be able to get readings though.

[dozerbill72]

After looking at the pics in your first post I would be a little skeptical about the castor angle. I know the gauge reads positive but the top of those studs are not truly flat. I would try some angle shims first just because they are cheap and easy to install. Your pinion angle looks like you have some room to role the axle back. Like said earlier the caster and camber can be checked by a quality shop on a 4x4 just not easily adjusted.