C2 Front Alignment Shims

[John L.]

I need to replace the current shims used for front end alignment. Can I just loosen the bolts maybe one at a time and slip in the correct size ?? Do I have to jack the car up and remove the weight on the front end ?? The car has been aligned and tracks straight -- the shims are just wrong.

thanks

[Jim T.]

Re: C2 Front Alignment Shims

To change out your upper control arm alignment shims position your jack under the bottom shock mount on the lower control arm and lift the tire. This will relieve the pressure on the upper control arm shims.

[mikemccagh]

Re: C2 Front Alignment Shims

don't need to jack it up. just loosen the bolts to release pressure on the shims then replace with the correct configured shims , then retighten nuts. mike

[Ralph E.]

Re: C2 Front Alignment Shims

John,

Looks like you got two answers to the same question. I have the same problem. Let us know which way worked.

Ralph #37280

[Terry M.]

Re: C2 Front Alignment Shims

Actually both Jim's and Mike's answers are correct, however, jacking the front from below the spring/shock mount serves no purpose. So long as the weight of the car is supported at the spring, or outboard of the spring, as the upper control arm attaching nuts are loosened the weight of the car will push the control arm inboard loosening the shims (which, if your luck is like mine, will promptly slip onto the crossmember, and slide below the engine, never to be seen again).

Jacking the car from inboard of the spring will force the upper control arm outward, and make removing the shims more difficult.

Sometimes a pry bar will be necessary to start the control arm in motion. Loosening only one nut at a time will increase the likelihood that a pry bar will be needed to free the shims (a good thing to help keep the shims from doing their disappearing act). A magnetic pick-up tool placed against the shims will help minimize the chances their disappearance.

Be sure to torque the control arm attaching nuts to the proper value ( 1968-1969 AIM shows 40-55 lb/ft, but consult the AIM or FSM for your specific year), and if they have been on and off several times consider replacing them. They are grip nuts, and will deteriorate with repeated use.