Hi All,

I need to bring in my G for a re-alignment. I have stock wheels/tires (for now), am I safe bringing my baby to an Express Tire or Discount Tire to do the job?


Thanks in advance.

 

There's a distinction between being in spec and being at optimal. The latter is a subset of the specification, optimized for better handling, cornering.

The kids at sears/discount tire will adjust it such that the computer shows green. Whether or not they understand how these numbers translate into practical application is a different matter.

Do realize, that from the factory, the front end is only adjustable for toe. You need different suspension components to be able to adjust caster/camber. On some cars you can loosen the struts to get a little bit more camber adjustment without going with full blown camber kit. I'm not sure if the suspension on the G falls into this category or not.

I believe the rear is toe only too, without additional adjustable arms.

You say you need to bring it in for a re-alignment. What was wrong with the first alignment? Was the car in an accident, does it track funny or pull to one side?

If the goal is just a matter of obtaining current alignment specs, then it shouldn't be much of a brainer to get those from a cookie cutter place. Try to use one that uses the new prism heads. They are more easily compensated and less error prone than the old RF/bubble level heads.

 

Thanks Jsolo.

My GF (don't ask me why I let her drive the G) went over a curb leaving a gas station. No body or undercarriage damage but the passenger side front tire/wheel hit pretty hard. It now pulls slightly to the right.

 

Front camber isn't adjustable, toe is. Rear camber and toe are adjustible. Many places besides a dealership do great alignments. Look for a local frame and front end shop, that's what they specialize in.

 

If the guy doing the work looks like he just got out of school, you may want to go somewhere else.