Few question after my toytec 3" lift and alignment

[ryankmasuda]

Hey guys, I have a few questions about alignment and such after I installed the 3" toytec/eibach springs and 5100 adjustables. After taking me about 2 1/2 hours to install the lift I had to be at work so I sent my girlfriend to get the alignment (my worst possible idea ever) at Les Schwab. I came home from work and I have a before and after printout of my alignment as well as two quotes for parts that needs replacement. I attached the 3 printouts. After several months of reading lift threads about and install write-ups I expected them to say I needed to CV's due to the grease slinging but from what I read I need to get some hose clamps to stop the grease from flying. After all the cv's aren't use to that angle. I also noticed that i need new tie rod bushings when I did the install. Basically what I'm asking is if the alignment seems out of whack and if the quotes are way too pricey. From what I can tell from the printout I'm closer to proper specs now, then I was before. If there is anyone out there with some knowledge about alignment please feel free to throw me your 2 cents. Thanks


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[criera]

my personal opinion is that i would advise you against having schwabb do the work. I have had several very bad experiences as have others i know. I believe their corporate culture has changed for the worse over the years and i dont believe they stand behind their work. i also think that outside of alignment, suspension work is outside their area of expertise. Here is a thread where is discussed my most recent horrible experience with them: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/76605-lifting-whole-vehicle-fuel-tank-skid-plate.html

So my .02. I wish i could tell you where to go but im lucky enough to have a friend who helps me with all my difficult stuff. id pimp him out to you but i dont think he'd appreciate it, sorry. Maybe someone here in the portland/vancouver area could help you with a recommendation. anyways good luck

 

[criera]

also ill see if i can find my printout from after my toytec install. im pretty sure in terms of the caster thats about where im at and all you can expect without stupid spendy aftermarket uca's. i finally figured on sticking to a rigid rotation schedule on the tires and i should be ok. so far i havent noticed any unusual wear (maybe about 10k or so)

 

[Jon]

I had no problem with my local shop doing my alighnment. They let me know that both my outer and one inner tie rods were shot, I installed and they did the alighnment in less than an hr. Tires are wearing evenly and no vibrations up to 100mph.

I didnt have any trouble with the grease leaking out just the inner boots tearing. Nothing a trash bag and some zip ties didn't fix!

But congrats on the lift

 

[ryankmasuda]

Thanks for the input. I haven't done a rack and pinion swap before, is this difficult to do? I'm assuming that If I replace everything Les Schwab said was bad I'll need a new alignment.

 

[DeTwizzle]

After I did my three inch lift, I was told the same thing. I took it to another shop and they quoted roughly the same thing. It is probably true that your inner tie rods need replacing. Get a second quote, but that sounds like standard prices to me. Just make sure your satisfied with there work.

 

[ryankmasuda]

I definitely won't be having Les Schwab do the work. I'm more concerned with being prepared for the parts pricing and what I'll be expecting to pay in parts. Are there any good rack and pinions to go with or stay away from?