Cross caster -1.6°... is that too much?

[CT135]

Replaced LCA bushings and took the 4runner in for an alignment. I asked for as much caster possible while keeping everything else in spec. I have built right fabrication uniball uca's.

Driver side caster: 1.6°
Passenger side caster: 3.2°

That seems like a heck of a difference. Why would one side be able to double the other? And are there any potential issues I may have?
Its under warranty currently so I could take it back for an adjustment

 

[WeakSauz]

Replaced LCA bushings and took the 4runner in for an alignment. I asked for as much caster possible while keeping everything else in spec. I have built right fabrication uniball uca's.

Driver side caster: 1.6°
Passenger side caster: 3.2°

That seems like a heck of a difference. Why would one side be able to double the other? And are there any potential issues I may have?
Its under warranty currently so I could take it back for an adjustment

Yes, that's too much cross-caster, and as you likely experienced on the drive home, it probably pulled you around some.

My first reaction to this post was "Ahh classic seized alignment cam, and the tech couldnt move it." But, you said you just replaced your LCA bushings, so I'm assuming the alignment hardware is good.

Sure this truck hasnt been in a wreck?

 

[CT135]

Yeah its good, frame is straight. Had alignments before and never had a weird issue like this. My previous alignment about a year ago when switched from a spacer lift to 5100/OME with my new UCA's everything was perfectly in spec.

Yes, that's too much cross-caster, and as you likely experienced on the drive home, it probably pulled you around some.

My first reaction to this post was "Ahh classic seized alignment cam, and the tech couldnt move it." But, you said you just replaced your LCA bushings, so I'm assuming the alignment hardware is good.

Sure this truck hasnt been in a wreck?

 

[RandyBobandy]

If you’re taking it to a chain alignment shop like firestone it’s also possible that you just happened to get a tech that’s a moron, around here good alignment shops are very hard to find

 

[clearock]

If you’re taking it to a chain alignment shop like firestone it’s also possible that you just happened to get a tech that’s a moron, around here good alignment shops are very hard to find

As stated "good alignment shops are very hard to find". I have the lifetime through Firestone and have gotten into it a few times with the management, I was told that they have a chain mandate that only the newbies r allowed to work on the lifetime alignments that come in because of the pay difference. Even when I've had there more experienced techs i've had issues, forgetting to re-tighten LCA cam bolts, never adjusting the cam bolts, telling me I have the wrg parts on my vehicle ie tie rods, it's not the new tech fault imo (I've talked with them and gotten some of there back grd, just someone looking 4 work...), it's the lack of proper training. Last alignment I had to show the tech how to adj the LCA cams to adj the caster.

 

[WeakSauz]

As stated "good alignment shops are very hard to find". Last alignment I had to show the tech how to adj the LCA cams to adj the caster.

I've encountered this before, too. These folks working at chain alignment shops are trained to use the alignment machine. They aren't trained nor do they often have the experience needed to know multiple mfg's and models, and how to manipulate alignments to get best results.

In their mind its "make the machine green!".

My advice is to go find an old school alignment shop. You wont find a laser machine in there anywhere. Just people and tools. If you see dudes with white hair -- you've found the right place.

I have a local grease pit like this, and after being advised to get an alignment there, I couldn't even recognize my own 4Runner leaving there it drove so well.

 

[CT135]

Took it back today and the guy got all pissy and said that I never specified that I wanted things in spec. I only started with that request and reiterated that point again before he took my keys. Oh well it didn't cost me anything extra and I wont be coming back here.

 

[RandyBobandy]

never stated you wanted things in spec? lol that has to be the most absurd thing I've ever heard from a shop, what does he think you want your alignment all screwed up?

That's why I hate taking my vehicles to shops, because a huge portion of mechanics are slack jawed yokels who's mothers smoked meth while pregnant and I wouldn't let them touch an rc car let alone something I plan to drive down the road. sounds like your alignment shop is one of those.

 

[brillo_76]

Took it back today and the guy got all pissy and said that I never specified that I wanted things in spec. I only started with that request and reiterated that point again before he took my keys. Oh well it didn't cost me anything extra and I wont be coming back here.

You wanted an alignment. Why in the world would you not want it to be aligned and in spec. Interesting shop you took it too. :/

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