61' front end align specs

[Phil Fischer]

Does anyone have the specs for the front end alignment on a 1961 Vette, that will provide for minimum steering effort? I know that on later cars, you can set up the front end to allow for the least amount of steering effort......I am using repro "bias-ply" tires, on stock wheels.........

[Dale Pearman]

Re: 61' front end align specs

The specs are published in the ST-12 Service Guide. Bill Thomas recommended a different set of values in Clymers for competition but I believe that alignment specs have little to do with steering effort.

Dale.

[John H.]

Re: 61' front end align specs

Phil -

When you take the car to the alignment shop, take the ST-12 and an allen wrench with you, as I guarantee you that nobody there will have the faintest idea either how to adjust it or where the adjustment is, much less what the specs are.

Steering effort with bias-ply tires is significantly higher than with radials; if you haven't tried radials, I recommend it - completely changes the character of the car and makes it a joy (instead of a chore) to drive. I have a set of repro bias tires too (for judging only - they live in the basement) - too scary to drive on.

There are a LOT of joints in the C1 steering system to keep lubricated, and, unless you've rebuilt it, the steering gear has probably been dry for years.

[Ed Jennings]

Re: 61' front end align specs

In the past I have seen some slightly amended specs for use with radial tires. Can't remember what the difference was, or if it possibly was only applicable to C2/3 specs. I need to get my 62 aligned after a partial rebuild of the front suspension. Could someone elaborate.

[John H.]

Re: 61' front end align specs

Ed -

The only significant difference is toe adjustment; the original C1 bias-ply tire toe-in spec was 1/16" - 1/8" per wheel, or 1/8" - 1/4" total toe-in. Radials want to have toe-in set at zero-to-1/16" TOTAL.

[Ed Jennings]

Thanks *NM*